User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1615 Ratings

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  1. AZawada
    Feb 25, 2008
    10
    Very good and captivating game, a few bugs and slightly long loading times slightly annoying but other than that you can get entirely engrossed in the world that the 'Witcher' lives in
  2. JimM.
    Mar 12, 2008
    9
    Just what the doctor ordered for us hard line RPG fans, who don't want to play on line.
  3. JasonC.
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    While not perfect, this is by far one of the greatest rpgs made. Though before you play I recommend reading the Last Wish Novel which you can order off of amazon's uk site. The game still has crashing bugs and the load times are somewhat excessive at times, but this is the first RPG since Baldur's gate 2 that has held my attention throughout the whole game. I am now replaying on While not perfect, this is by far one of the greatest rpgs made. Though before you play I recommend reading the Last Wish Novel which you can order off of amazon's uk site. The game still has crashing bugs and the load times are somewhat excessive at times, but this is the first RPG since Baldur's gate 2 that has held my attention throughout the whole game. I am now replaying on hard. A MUST BUY for any fan of RPG games. Great job CD Projekt. Expand
  4. AdamC.
    Nov 19, 2007
    10
    Ok the good, the bad and the beautiful, good: the game is a dark deep immersive and unmissable experience it combines an excellent combat system with lots of imaginative and interesting npcs the story line is sublime and the game addresses many adult themes. where the game shines is in the decisions you will make throughout its course that you may think insignificant at the time but will Ok the good, the bad and the beautiful, good: the game is a dark deep immersive and unmissable experience it combines an excellent combat system with lots of imaginative and interesting npcs the story line is sublime and the game addresses many adult themes. where the game shines is in the decisions you will make throughout its course that you may think insignificant at the time but will have effects on the later stages of the game it runs surprisingly well on a variety of machines new and old bad: loading times are horrendously long up in the 30 second bracket depending on your machine it goes up to 5 minutes which will occur everytime you enter a house or new area beautiful: ever played neverwinter nights 2 if so get a picture of that games graphics in your mind and now look at the witcher which is using th same aurora engine (modified obv.) Expand
  5. meestyk
    Nov 21, 2007
    10
    A list bar none as is. Throw in a couple cool drinks, and you're taking that fine lady out. This guy is pure enjoyment. Total freedom in the gameplay. For once, you got all the goods in the right places. Support this guy, you can't go wrong if you're into this type of game. Kudos.
  6. Colby
    Nov 24, 2007
    9
    This game is great. Simply put. Bioware did a great job with The Witcher. Wonderful non-linear storyline and it really lives up to that title. Splinter Cell Double Agent was supposed to be non-linear, but it wasn't. In the Witcher, your choices really do affect in-game events and the development of who your character really is. The combat system and skill tree was beautifully done, This game is great. Simply put. Bioware did a great job with The Witcher. Wonderful non-linear storyline and it really lives up to that title. Splinter Cell Double Agent was supposed to be non-linear, but it wasn't. In the Witcher, your choices really do affect in-game events and the development of who your character really is. The combat system and skill tree was beautifully done, and I liked that you could switch between OTS and Bird's Eye views of the combat. My only complaint is the long loading times. I would definitely recommend this game. Expand
  7. ThomasR.
    Dec 16, 2007
    10
    Love it! Great Story, Visuals and atmosphere - addictive!
  8. AnthonyL.
    Dec 26, 2007
    10
    This blows every recent RPG out of the water. Its funny comparing it to NWN2, which was made with a version of the same engine. Its like night and day. NWN2 plays like a poorly made mod, where as thw Witcher feels like a professionally made game.
  9. Jan 5, 2012
    9
    One of the most interesting role-playing games that I played. Non-trivial plot, lot of skills, charismatic characters, non-linear quests, moral choices and perfect soundtrack. Well done, CD Projekt.
  10. May 24, 2011
    9
    The best game I have been played.Why innovating fighting system, beautiful world , amusing music, intelligent story, clever dialogues. Many hours spend in very special world.
  11. Sep 11, 2012
    10
    The Witcher Has A Great Atmosphere.
  12. Mar 7, 2014
    9
    The Witcher is a game that feels dated by today's standard but strangely one game that despite its flaws, never fails to have me glued to it two to three hours a time, for me, thats a very long time to be playing games! The clicking style combat is boring for me and serves no purpose but its really the story that keeps me glued to the game for hours a time. The whole world is so alive withThe Witcher is a game that feels dated by today's standard but strangely one game that despite its flaws, never fails to have me glued to it two to three hours a time, for me, thats a very long time to be playing games! The clicking style combat is boring for me and serves no purpose but its really the story that keeps me glued to the game for hours a time. The whole world is so alive with everything and everyone living their own lives with or without you. There's so many ways to handle everything that you can really get creative... want to buy a kickass piece of gear? You can either gamble for it, fight for it, trade stuffs for it... etc... its just how much you want it. This is truly an amazing piece of RPG which doesn't really deliver on the action side but its RPG elements are what I have never seen before... much better than Baldur's Gate. If you want good action and awesome enemy design, this is not the game for you... every other action games out there ace this game in terms of these two areas but if you want a DEEP, and I mean DEEEEEP, RPG... this is for you! Expand
  13. Feb 14, 2015
    10
    10/10
    BEST GAME EVER!
    ...............................................................................................................................
  14. Jul 3, 2011
    10
    A very underrated game, mostly because a large amount of people did not really try this game before Witcher 2 came out. While this game doesn't have the amazing visuals of its sequel, it still provides an excellent story and exciting combat. A great title for any RPG fan.
  15. AndyB.
    Jan 10, 2008
    10
    Best, most intelligent Action RPG for ages. Love the situations you get thrown into, and the choices you have to make. The world feels incredibly real too, with people following schedules and acting to character. Oblivion in particular isn't worthy to lick this games' boots.
  16. ReiverM.
    Jan 15, 2008
    9
    A very impressive debut that shames the established big boys in its depth, scale and beauty. The first thing that you'll notice about the game is that it's aimed firmly at adults. There's swearing and boobies aplenty but that's not what makes it an "adult game". It's the way it treats you like a capable and competent human rather than some ADHD kid who needs his A very impressive debut that shames the established big boys in its depth, scale and beauty. The first thing that you'll notice about the game is that it's aimed firmly at adults. There's swearing and boobies aplenty but that's not what makes it an "adult game". It's the way it treats you like a capable and competent human rather than some ADHD kid who needs his hand held every step of the way and every puzzle signposted. It actually makes you think about decisions and for that alone it would stand out from the current crop of so called RPGs. It also looks beautiful. Maybe not Crysis pretty but its excellent animations and art work had me screenshoting every couple of minutes as I saw something new and breathtaking. Unfortunately the obvious amount of time spent on the enviroments wasn't mirrored in the time spent on character models. Although all NPCs look great from their patched clothing to their bulky armour to their voluptous cleavage and snub nosed cuteness there's not sufficient variety for a game of this size. It's forgiveable to re-use models for the extras like villagers who've nothing to say and go about their excellently scripted routines in the background but not for main dialogue NPCs. The old man, fat merchant and old hag models are especially overused. The story is strong throughout and although it appears to have lost a little of the nuances in translation it is engaging and interesting. Basing it on a series of books gives it a weighty backstory and enough lore to provide a solid base distinct from the usual tolkein cliches. The lack of variety in choosing the PC may be seen as a weakness by some but the way I see it is you're experiencing a story as Geralt and that has its advantages as well. One of which is that the creators didn't have to budget for the 101 choices that similar RPGs give you and always seem to come up short in catering for your particular skillset. You still get to make choices in the game and to implement your personality on the game but you do so as Geralt which, imo, keeps the game tighter and less jarring compared to eg. NWN2. Perhaps not for everyone and it does have a couple of bugs but, for me, this is the game of the year and the most enjoyable RPG i've played since Morrowind. Expand
  17. LouisK.
    Feb 9, 2008
    9
    I Have to say that I'm loving this game. The graphics are great if you excuse the over used NPC models. The story is engaging and the gameplay is refreshing for an RPG. I love the potion mixing system which a lot of reviews didn't like and I love the experience system as you don't have to wait ages to make advances, you can spend experience coins as you go, but the higher I Have to say that I'm loving this game. The graphics are great if you excuse the over used NPC models. The story is engaging and the gameplay is refreshing for an RPG. I love the potion mixing system which a lot of reviews didn't like and I love the experience system as you don't have to wait ages to make advances, you can spend experience coins as you go, but the higher levels still take work to achieve. the fact that you cant create a character isnt a bad thing as it allows the makers to tell a story about your character without worrying about loads of character versions, besides i like the main character :) a lot of the negatives I have read seemed to have been addressed with the 1.2 patch so make sure you get it. I don't have a hyper pc by far and I have not had the same huge load time problems people have described. About th e same load times as oblivion had at any rate so I can only assume that the patch addressed this issue. Try this game before you buy as its a little like Marmite you either love it or hate it. Expand
  18. ShaunH.
    Apr 20, 2008
    10
    I can't understand why this game got such low critic reviews? I am a RPG veteran and I found this game fresh and interesting. The 'infamous' load times were unnoticable on my 2GB RAM comp. The combat was innovative and the coup de graces were great to watch. The dialogue and voice acting is some what uninspired at times, but it is not bad enough to tarnish the great I can't understand why this game got such low critic reviews? I am a RPG veteran and I found this game fresh and interesting. The 'infamous' load times were unnoticable on my 2GB RAM comp. The combat was innovative and the coup de graces were great to watch. The dialogue and voice acting is some what uninspired at times, but it is not bad enough to tarnish the great gameplay and engulfing story. Expand
  19. ChristianR.
    Sep 17, 2008
    10
    Firstly let me just say that I actually disliked this game when I first played it, I had the slowest computer on the planet (well not exactly...XP) and stopped playing it because of the 10 minute load times. After a month, i realized i could fix the graphic settings... and when i did, the game played brilliantly! I i was glued to the screen for 5 hours just on the first chapter and Firstly let me just say that I actually disliked this game when I first played it, I had the slowest computer on the planet (well not exactly...XP) and stopped playing it because of the 10 minute load times. After a month, i realized i could fix the graphic settings... and when i did, the game played brilliantly! I i was glued to the screen for 5 hours just on the first chapter and i've never had so much fun in a game before. Oblivion doesn't even compare in terms of RPG material. Geralt is probably one of the most amazing characters in any game. Period. Too point out the flaws...maybe the load times and the slight language problems. However, if you can look past all this... then this is the best RPG on the market, Graphically & Entertainingly. Expand
  20. JackM
    Sep 21, 2008
    10
    Great and innovative RPG game, extended edition patch makes it what it was supposed to be, which is nothing short of extraordinary.
  21. PeterM.
    Sep 7, 2008
    10
    Awesome storyline, beautiful graphics and alluring music mixed together to create an outstanding cRPG game. Something that can only be compared with Wizardry 8th and Baldurs Gate 2.
  22. Edi
    Dec 23, 2007
    10
    Fantastic game! Great story, very nonlinear, three endings based on decisions made during entire game, not just the end, decisions not black and white. Dethroned longtime winner Deus Ex for me.
  23. MadTreXx
    Dec 31, 2007
    10
    In my opinion it is th best RPG of the year. It has great dark climat and fantastic storyline. If foregn gaming criticts would read original Sapkowski books about The Witcher they would give minimum 85 points or 9/10. Best wishes for CDProjekt, good job guys I'm proud to be polish in this moment. ;)
  24. SteliosK.
    Dec 31, 2007
    10
    A breath of fresh air in the rpg genre, ironically because it takes us back to the fundamentals of what an rpg is supposed to be all about. Not perfect, but close enough!
  25. JessicaC
    Nov 18, 2008
    10
    The Witcher is the best game I've played in years. True to what it's touting. Download it from Steam. Now.
  26. StevieP
    Oct 14, 2008
    10
    This is a rare game: gripping story where your actions have an actual result, brilliant characters, etc. Amazing!
  27. HagathaA.
    Jan 19, 2008
    8
    This is a game that begs for a sequel to perfect it's flaws. A different and mature game, I enjoyed the change of pace but the combat wasn't what it could of been. It's like a BMW 3 series car...sporty and fun, but you know somewhere there's a better version that will truly blow you away.
  28. ColinR
    Apr 21, 2008
    9
    Absolutely Brilliant! One of the best games I've ever played. Gripping story, line refreshing combat and character development.
  29. BobP.
    Dec 25, 2007
    10
    Absolutely incredible RPG. Simply the best one I have seen since Darklands. The story is unparalleled, and the freedom is also pretty great. It does have its downsides, such as crashes every few hours and bugs related to the immense freedom you have (unfinishable quests if you do them in certain orders). With a game this complex and ambitious, you can expect that sort of stuff though. Absolutely incredible RPG. Simply the best one I have seen since Darklands. The story is unparalleled, and the freedom is also pretty great. It does have its downsides, such as crashes every few hours and bugs related to the immense freedom you have (unfinishable quests if you do them in certain orders). With a game this complex and ambitious, you can expect that sort of stuff though. Loading times were completely fixed with the newest patch (1.2). The brilliant story and gameplay makes me ignore the bugs and crashes though. Definitely worth it. Expand
  30. K.G.
    Dec 27, 2007
    10
    I generally am not a fan of RPGs. I dislike the entire fantasy genre. Why then, am I completely entranced by this game? It could be because of the above-average graphics, the absolutely amazing score, maybe it's the badass main character, or the storyline that present real moral choices with real consequences for the branching storyline. In any event, this is real quality, the kind I generally am not a fan of RPGs. I dislike the entire fantasy genre. Why then, am I completely entranced by this game? It could be because of the above-average graphics, the absolutely amazing score, maybe it's the badass main character, or the storyline that present real moral choices with real consequences for the branching storyline. In any event, this is real quality, the kind of quality that you get when developers pore their heart and souls into a project. Expand
  31. Mar 17, 2011
    9
    Excellent RPG and best storytelling since Planescape:T. It has interesting concept of blurring the lines between good and evil, there is no truly "good" or truly "evil" choice. The combat gameplay is its only flaw.
    And this game is the only one that has alchemy system that I actually wanted to use and had a lot of fun doing so.
  32. Mar 18, 2011
    9
    The best true RPG to arrive on the scene since Baldur's Gate II. Not RPG +Action. Not RPG+Strategy. Not RPG + anything else. Just pure RPG. Yes, I concur that the load times are annoying. But if that's the worst you can say about a game take your marbles and go home. In every other respect The Witcher delivers. How good is this game. Let me explain. I play the World of Warcraft. I playThe best true RPG to arrive on the scene since Baldur's Gate II. Not RPG +Action. Not RPG+Strategy. Not RPG + anything else. Just pure RPG. Yes, I concur that the load times are annoying. But if that's the worst you can say about a game take your marbles and go home. In every other respect The Witcher delivers. How good is this game. Let me explain. I play the World of Warcraft. I play it a lot. You could say I'm addicted to it, if you like. The Witcher is the only game that I stopped playing WoW for. Stopped cold. If the industry would come up with more games like this maybe I would come back to playing single player RPGs entirely. If you don't like this game then it's simply the case the RPG are not your style of game. Expand
  33. May 18, 2011
    10
    wow where to start I absolutely loved this game from start to finish,sucked me in and wouldent let me go,awsome graphics memorable story,This is how rpg's for pc should be done.Quiete a long game,I put about 50 hours into it because there are just so many sidequests
  34. May 19, 2011
    9
    The Witcher is simply one of the best games I have ever played. I was waiting for the game like this for a really long time. It has some cons and not everyone will fell comfortable with it's game play (I like adventure games), but that game put me out from social life for a whole week and it was definitely worth it. 9.0
  35. May 20, 2011
    10
    awsome game great graphics great fighting system and an amazingly good musical score it has black and white morality definatly worth buying you can pick this babay up at gog.com right now for 5 dollars so what are you waiting for go out and get it! you wont regret it
  36. Jun 15, 2011
    10
    Since I passed Witcher I beginning behaves to the videogames as to art. Great nonlinear adventure story in framing of wonderful music of Adam Skorupa.I remember it and till today.
  37. Mar 12, 2012
    10
    2nd best polish game. One of the best RPGs ever, one of the best fantasy universes ever. : )
    I recommend this game and The Witcher Saga too! :D
    Dark and deep world with sclavinian style.
  38. Apr 3, 2017
    9
    I have played this game extensively for five years but I was inspired to write a review based on some odd negative opinions about this first game. As someone who couldn't get into this game the first 3-4 times I tried to play it, I think I can offer some words of motivation.

    One of the most off-putting features of this game are the combat mechanics. They take some getting used to, and
    I have played this game extensively for five years but I was inspired to write a review based on some odd negative opinions about this first game. As someone who couldn't get into this game the first 3-4 times I tried to play it, I think I can offer some words of motivation.

    One of the most off-putting features of this game are the combat mechanics. They take some getting used to, and you may have to force yourself, but eventually you get the hang of it and learn that this game is not about the combat so much as it is the story and character interactions. The combat in this game is definitely secondary, which can be a strange feeling for most gamers.

    The graphics can look dated now, but the Enhanced Edition with some texture mods will quickly get this game up to speed. The biggest issue is Geralt, as no amount of mods will fix his odd gelfling appearance. However it does a lot for other character models and the environs. The views from the Dike across the water are positively stunning at times and some areas like Lakeside are very quaint.

    The biggest flaw in this game (adjusted for inflation) are the side quests. I really think this game overdid it on the side quests--mostly meaningless fetch quests and inconsequential tedium--and CPR certainly acknowledged this as they wound back the quantity of them in the next game.

    The game doesn't really have a devoted crafting system. It's present, but it's fairly useless even on high difficulties. You can get by with sharpening tools that you can apply to your swords on your own.

    The weirdest thing about this game is the fact that the first boss you encounter is BY FAR the most difficult. The Beast for some reason was a force to be reckoned with on my first playthrough. Yet the bosses become more and more of a joke as the game progresses. I have mixed feelings about the ending. On one hand, I felt the ending did wonders for the story. Everything was wrapped up quite well. On the other hand all that tension was pissed all over by a very weak end encounter that didn't require me to be geared, skilled, or prepared. Protip: don't spec uber-Igni if you want ANY feeling of difficulty in this game. Igni is hax.
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  39. Feb 24, 2014
    9
    The Witcher is one of the best RPGs I ever played. I liked the combat system, the character development, the graphics, the theme and all that. Above all, the story telling and the atmosphere. It is very rare to find so much immersion and depth in a game and this one has plenty of it. The music is beautifull too. The only downside I can think of is the technical side of it. Saving the gamesThe Witcher is one of the best RPGs I ever played. I liked the combat system, the character development, the graphics, the theme and all that. Above all, the story telling and the atmosphere. It is very rare to find so much immersion and depth in a game and this one has plenty of it. The music is beautifull too. The only downside I can think of is the technical side of it. Saving the games did not work very well as far as I remember and there were some other similar minor problems too. Somehow, The Witcher games do not seem to handle the technical side so well. Apart from that, this game is a genius. Expand
  40. Nov 11, 2014
    9
    Complex rpg with an amazing storyline. The grapics are decent for 2007, the animations not that good, Music is beautiful. Combat depends on you if you like it or not. At least it differs from all other games I have ever play. Chararcters are memorable and interesting. Considering that was the first game of CD Project RED, they did a amazing job with it.
  41. Mar 7, 2018
    10
    the beggining of the best saga of this times. masterpieces like TW never get old. i played it in 2011 and it was amazing and unforgetable
  42. JoeyF.
    Jan 1, 2008
    10
    Do not load your save game from the demo when you buy the full game. The game will crash after you play through chapter one. Other than that, so far I say this is the best RPG I've played in years. Better than Oblivion. Seriously. Finally some mature story telling, thrilling combat,even babes to sack. When I play this game, I feel like I did when I started reading Conan novels when I Do not load your save game from the demo when you buy the full game. The game will crash after you play through chapter one. Other than that, so far I say this is the best RPG I've played in years. Better than Oblivion. Seriously. Finally some mature story telling, thrilling combat,even babes to sack. When I play this game, I feel like I did when I started reading Conan novels when I was 13. Making the choice to go rated R with this game made for a much more believable experience. The story is interesting, the voice acting compelling. I could go on and on. If you love RPG's or even if you have never gotten into one...GET THIS GAME!!! Expand
  43. salllyr
    Dec 3, 2009
    10
    Best most well thought out rpg in a long time. Apart from the samey npc's, everything is great. The music, the look of the game but most importantly quests you care about. Not fetch and carry ones but fun who dunnits etc that make you think about the story in order to solve it. Love it. H8 the crashing in vista even with fix.
  44. anonymous
    Oct 19, 2008
    10
    One of the best games i've played in a while. The choices throughout the game and the ending they lead up to is amazing.
  45. AliT.
    Apr 11, 2008
    10
    With Betrayal At Krondor and Planescape : Torment, one of the best computer based RPG ever. 2 Thumbs up.
  46. JessicaA.
    May 27, 2008
    10
    OMG Geralt's so HOT! Too bad it's only for boys. Great...I feel left out!!! My brother loves this game so a 10 it is.
  47. Rob
    Jun 3, 2008
    10
    I've not enjoyed a classical rpg this much since 'Dungeon Master'. Quirky, a little rough around the edges, but an essential play for anybody who is a fan of rpgs. Shame on you PC gamer reviewer, maybe you go back to playing peggle?
  48. Dec 8, 2020
    9
    Pre-ordered on Direct 2 Drive back in the late summer of 2007 after reading about an RPG that individuals on forums had been describing as "A True PC RPG" during the time of CRPG's vanishing.
    At launch completing a massive playthrough; exceptionally impressed at how CDPR turned the Aurora engine from NWN2's isometric view into a third person action RPG. My review for Accelerated Evolution
    Pre-ordered on Direct 2 Drive back in the late summer of 2007 after reading about an RPG that individuals on forums had been describing as "A True PC RPG" during the time of CRPG's vanishing.
    At launch completing a massive playthrough; exceptionally impressed at how CDPR turned the Aurora engine from NWN2's isometric view into a third person action RPG. My review for Accelerated Evolution at the time landed at an 8.5 stating that Poland's CD Projekt Red had just made a statement to Bioware/Obsidian "We'll use your tech and do things you told us was impossible with the engine."

    All in all this is the only title in the franchise that hasn't aged in a way that can be immediately gorgeous and visually captivating the way both The Witcher 2 (Still to this day maxed out with Ubersampling on is visually STUNNING) and The Witcher 3 (5 years later and it's still better looking than AAA games coming out in the 2018, 2019 and even 2020 era). Now with Cyberpunk a day away from launch it's amazing to look back at the debut release from the Studio that brought Western PC Games to the Polish game shelves raising enough money to fund this 13 year old master-class.

    It set a perfect foundation of what CDPR was capable of in game design and narrative story-telling.

    Next they would shatter all expectations with The Witcher 2, changing what story-telling and branching narratives in an RPG could be in the modern era; while boasting the studios RED ENGINE; and then change the genre forever with The Witcher 3.
    Now... We wait for Cyberpunk 2077 to display once again why CDPR is the best in the business. They understand what gamers want because they themselves are gamers that are in control of the vision they set out to create.

    The last studio to be independent. We used to praise Blizzard for this in the mid to late 90's; We praised id Software (rightfully so) for being an independent studio without a publisher breathing down their necks... (This changed with Bethesda but id Software at-least kept it's identity even if it took awhile to find it again.)
    I believe CDPR will remain that last beacon of hope for gamers "You can do it. You can be an independent studio and change the world of gaming; not over-night with a debut, but first impressions matter. This first impression was a definitive example of "Success or Bankrupt".
    The result was success and my original 8.5 is rounded up to a 9.0 as of 12/8/2020.

    Final Note: While this is the Witcher title I have put the least total amount of time in, completing two play-throughs compared to 6 PC complete plays of The Witcher 2 (and one 2 week advance review copy of the eventual Xbox 360 port). 7 times and I wouldn't mind cracking an 8th play in the future.
    In mid 2021 I plan to revisit The Witcher 1, 2 and 3 and (in the future..) revisit Cyberpunk 2077 to create an evolution of the studio video and full analysis on technology and game design.

    Kill some monsters.
    Expand
  49. Jun 15, 2011
    10
    Since I passed Witcher I beginning behaves to the videogames as to art. Great nonlinear adventure story in framing of wonderful music of Adam Skorupa.I remember it and till today.
  50. May 26, 2011
    8
    The game is a good game, i will give CDproject that. Its about Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, or witcher as the locals call him. He is the typical grunty voiced, tall and handsome protagonist, but once the storyline starts speeding up his true character shows. They have created a great protagonist with the fact that he is a complete badass, but he also has a lot of character. For theThe game is a good game, i will give CDproject that. Its about Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, or witcher as the locals call him. He is the typical grunty voiced, tall and handsome protagonist, but once the storyline starts speeding up his true character shows. They have created a great protagonist with the fact that he is a complete badass, but he also has a lot of character. For the rest of the characters, not as much can be said, for it seems as if the game forces the whole entire 'all the characters have a bad side' thing on literally everyone, which can definitely get annoying eventually, but brings a new light to the black and white choices of say, mass effect. The combat is different from the regular hack and slash, but can get fairly annoying especially early on when the combos you do look exactly the same for each hit. His attacks look and get better over time, but it is still frustrating. Another great part of the game is the alchemy system, something where you collect materials to make potions, bombs, and traps, all of which are REQUIRED, not just fun to use, to win in combat at all past easy difficulty. The setting is varied, you go from swamps to cities to small villages to snowy areas, however within these areas there will always be a stalemate where it gets needlessly boring, making the game hard to complete unless your some kind of game perfectionist. The story is a good one though, one that has far reaching choices that make you feel a part of the world like no other game. The game changes according to your choices, and it makes the whole game feel under your control, almost as if your writing a novel through a game. The graphics are also great and detailed as if an artist made them, although somewhat murky. It would have been more pleasing to the eye if they were a bit more colorful, even if it were to take a bit away from the atmosphere. Another issue i have is the loot system, in which there is almost no loot. Most of the time you will be stuck with the same exact weapons throughout most of the game, and if they perhaps made a better armor system the game would have been much more enjoyable and more lengthy (in a good way). That is actually my main issue, the only loot you pick up is small weapons which aren't feasible to use, or alchemical ingredients. With the sound work, it is great in some areas, amazing in other areas, and downright bad in others. Geralt has great voicework, but some of the smaller character make it seem as if they picked a random man off the street to do the voicework. The soundtrack however makes up for it, for it is a great soundtrack. Well, because of a few detractors, this game shys from being truly great, but it is definitely worth playing, especially if you want to play the witcher 2 which is almost unplayable without having played the first game the whole way through. Expand
  51. Sep 19, 2011
    10
    There are really some flaws in the game (but Enhanced Edition is seriously improved), but they are really minor and don't spoil game play. But I give this game 10 out of 10 because of the terrific story and character's personality development. There are a lot of situations in the game where you have to think about philosophical questions.
  52. Apr 21, 2013
    8
    When I hear the word ARPG I tend to cringe and move on. They tend to be light on story due to the increased attention to combat and the free aim combat as seen in the Elder Scrolls series just drive me nuts. Fortunately, The Witcher doesn't suffer from either of these problems. The story was interesting, something I rarely say about newer RPGs anymore and the combat isn't free aim. It doesWhen I hear the word ARPG I tend to cringe and move on. They tend to be light on story due to the increased attention to combat and the free aim combat as seen in the Elder Scrolls series just drive me nuts. Fortunately, The Witcher doesn't suffer from either of these problems. The story was interesting, something I rarely say about newer RPGs anymore and the combat isn't free aim. It does require far more clicking than any of the old infinity engine RPGs due to the combo system, which can ware on your nerves at time, but overall it works well and can be interesting to watch (for a few minutes) after you unlock new combo moves. Not as grindy and combat heavy as other ARPGs. Hitting most of the side quests I spent about 30 hours to beat it. Well worth the massively discounted price you can find it at. Expand
  53. Jul 4, 2012
    9
    This game was fun, entertaining, and pretty. The game kept wanting more. I will be buying the sequel. The sex cards make me feel like a pre-teen again, giggling at cards with "boobies" on them. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The game-play while repetitive, is a lot of fun. The RPG elements in this game are exactly what you'd want from an RPG.
  54. Jul 14, 2012
    9
    Despite some poor voiceovers, the game delivers in almost every category. The character customization has depth, the story has meaning, and the NPC's you encounter are more than enough to fuel immersion. RPG makers of this day and age could learn a lot from CD Projekt RED.
  55. Mar 31, 2013
    10
    The story of the witcher Geralt is an entirely absorbing tale. Visually impressive for 2007, the game has aged well. You have a multitude of options in character development and progression, every decision made has it's own merits and reasons, separating it from every other cut and paste RPG whose moral compass limits you to either evil or good.
  56. Apr 1, 2013
    9
    Very good start of the series. Game has great story, massive amount of sidequests. Fighting is a little bit difficult in the beginnig, but when you learn it, it gives much fun.
  57. Jul 1, 2022
    8
    Surely a good game with a great and dark atmosphere. The story is interesting and the dialoges are great, but..
    the controlling is not good, the dialog system easy, the inventory is too small, the fighting is system action oriented and the gameplay a bit easy
  58. Dec 2, 2013
    10
    Polish best game ever made. My favourite game from all. Everything is the best. Story, combat, voice acting, characters etc. I have finished The Wicher three times and I love it.
  59. Dec 18, 2022
    10
    I LOVE The Witcher 1....Just an Incredibly good Fantasy RPG. Easily a Top 10 of All-time. The voice acting and incredibly detailed scences and situations that are presented are just First Rate!

    All-time Classic!
  60. Oct 16, 2013
    9
    İt the most realistic and playable role playing game in the 2007's. You should give the chance this stuff. Actions and graphics are wonderfull. if you have a GREAT TİME you have to play.
  61. Feb 23, 2021
    8
    Very nice game, compelling story, the game felt a bit too long for me, I would prefer it to be much shorter. during the gameplay I was stuck twice, and didnt know what to do next, this make me to lose a lot of time, but I think, make the game much easer.
    playing this game, I used a mode, white wolf, to make the game more playble.
  62. Jun 10, 2017
    9
    Great game. i have spent a lot of time on this title. It has a great story with memorable characters. Good gameplay with lots of possibilities during missions and best cut scenes with good dialogs.
  63. Aug 2, 2014
    10
    Story - 10/10
    Gameplay - 8/10
    Sound/Music - 10/10
    Graphics - 9/10
    World Design - 10/10
    Dialogs - 10/10
    AI - 9/10
    Deserves an assessment 9/10, but I will put 10 because it is the first game CD Projekt Red.
  64. Dec 5, 2015
    9
    I am a fan of the Witcher series since I've read the books back in 2005 or so (and this fact really helped enjoy the game better) however even if you haven't read the books - this is a very good RPG in itself.

    The pros: + Good quality graphics, not a big deal for me gotta get that out of the way. + Wonderful soundtrack. Really immersive. + A nice "dark fantasy" world. Where elves get
    I am a fan of the Witcher series since I've read the books back in 2005 or so (and this fact really helped enjoy the game better) however even if you haven't read the books - this is a very good RPG in itself.

    The pros:
    + Good quality graphics, not a big deal for me gotta get that out of the way.
    + Wonderful soundtrack. Really immersive.
    + A nice "dark fantasy" world. Where elves get racially discriminated, town guards take drugs as bribes, and use said drugs... Witches are trying to survive the ignorant mod that fears and hates them.
    + No "good vs. evil" - just a lot of people (and other creatures) with their conflicting goals, feels and wants.
    + With the above said - often you can decide who to help and how to judge those around you.
    + A lot of character development. You start as a guy who can barely deal with a couple rabid dogs, and end up taking out dragons (well, not quite 40-meter-long High Dragons like those found in Dragon Age, but 6-meter-long Wyverns) - multiple at a time, and beating much more dangerous creatures, as well as armed human enemies (mages, angry Templars, etc).
    + Not a lot of grinding for better gear. In fact you start out with quite decent gear: a Witcher's Steel and Silver sword, and not until quite late in the game can you find a weapon that's better.
    + There are ways to get very VERY powerful, if you figure out how to. It's no cheating or bug, just strategies that you HAVE TO learn if you wanna play on HARD. And there are multiple ones.
    + There are rune stones to use as a permanent upgrade to a sword, and it's nice that the better gear is rare and interesting to find, craft and upgrade (rather than something you can buy from the town merchant - just collect 100'000 gold, like in many RPGs)
    + Unique items are obtained through truly unique experiences, that would make you value them to a point that I chose to keep that item throughout Witcher-II game (using the import save feature)
    + No **** quests like "go hunt 10 squirrels and bring me the furs". Most quests are backed with a story that something really bad happened, and only a Witcher can help the person in need.
    + The quests match the protagonist, and feel on-the-spot. So unlike Commander Shepard saving the galaxy, and then being told to deal with some scumbags that stole something from a merchant, or the Inquisitor in Dragon Age looking for a lost cow.
    + Interesting characters. Many from the book. Yes you can make relationships with them, and even cheat on them if you wish to :-)
    + Overall, there are a lot of strategic and tactical things you are encouraged to learn, and a few things to upgrade (weapon and armor), but in a thoughtful way, (rather than the grind-to-get-top-level-gear way) the game is really hard to play on HARD unless you understand how to play it right.

    Cons:
    - You can't jump over a knee-high fence. WTF. But sometimes you can jump over the head of an enemy - this happens somewhat unexpectedly
    - The combat is a bit scripted... Not very manual control (no jump, no sprint, no duck or block), kind of an RTS-like feel to it. The "click at right time to strike a combo" is not bad, but gets old a bit too quickly. Maybe a love-it-or-hate-it thing.
    - The game world is a few isolated locations. They aren't very big either. Granted, they are nicely detailed, but will probably feel tiny to players coming from TES.
    Expand
  65. Jan 21, 2016
    9
    The Witcher is a masterpiece RPG, that stands out for its beautiful storytelling and characters, and its variety in missions.Even though this is the one that i least like in the trilogy, i still feel that caring that most people have for their favorite sagas or trilogy's first sons, so yes, i do think that this is probably one of the best RPGs ever made. Thanks CD Project Red, for thisThe Witcher is a masterpiece RPG, that stands out for its beautiful storytelling and characters, and its variety in missions.Even though this is the one that i least like in the trilogy, i still feel that caring that most people have for their favorite sagas or trilogy's first sons, so yes, i do think that this is probably one of the best RPGs ever made. Thanks CD Project Red, for this amazing games that you have blessed us with. Its only problem must be it's difficulty, i know that games are more fun when you need to die a lot to play it. But this game is just to much OP, i like difficult, but not this much. Expand
  66. Nov 19, 2014
    10
    The Witcher is one of the best games which I ever played. This climate (quite like Sapkowski's book), storyline and gameplay ! I would write more about this game, but my English is not perfect :).
    PS: Play with mod FCR (Full Combat Rebalance).
  67. Jun 27, 2015
    10
    - Good: Atmosphere, Setting, Story, Characters, C&C, Music, Alchemy, Writing, Ending, Art Direction
    - Mixed: Combat, Exploration
    - Bad: ---

    Fantastic game, one of the most atmospheric RPG to date with great soundrack, story and artistic style. Choice and consequence done right.
  68. Jan 27, 2018
    9
    Witcher is a fantastic game with great storytelling and characters, the combat might be meh, but Witcher is still a playable game all just for the story.

    It's a truly masterpiece of a RPG game.
  69. Jul 19, 2019
    8
    Main evaluation criteria:
    -Story: 8
    -Atmosphere: 9
    -Characters: 8
    -Graphics and design: 8
    -Gameplay: 7
    -Sound and Music: 9
    -Bugs: 9
    -Interface: 9
    -Completeness of the world: 7

    Аdditional evaluation criteria (Do not really affect the assessment):
    -Freedom of choice: 5
    -Coop in Story mode: 0
    -Multiplayer: 0

    Scores from 1 to 10, the higher the better
  70. Dec 30, 2016
    9
    Un gran juego con elecciones interesantes y una historia interesante. El sistema de combate es extraño, pero no malo, simplemente es algo que nunca había visto en ningun otro juego.
    Me gusta bastante el sistema de leveleo, es complejo y tiene muchas cosas por elegir. Lo que no me gusta y la razón por la cual le bajo un punto, es el hecho de que sea tan conflictivo a la hora de saber que
    Un gran juego con elecciones interesantes y una historia interesante. El sistema de combate es extraño, pero no malo, simplemente es algo que nunca había visto en ningun otro juego.
    Me gusta bastante el sistema de leveleo, es complejo y tiene muchas cosas por elegir. Lo que no me gusta y la razón por la cual le bajo un punto, es el hecho de que sea tan conflictivo a la hora de saber que hacer. Hay misiones que las activas y no te dicen hacia donde ir ni que hacer, por lo que o lo adivinas, o te ves obligado a mirar en internet alguna guía.
    Mas allá de eso, exelente juego.
    Expand
  71. Jul 3, 2018
    8
    Debo decir que empece a jugar este juego por la salida del 3, lo mas destacable es la historia, que me pareció hermosa, los mapas me parecieron hermosos, y mas por la época que salio este juego, pero lo que si destaco es el sistema de combate, ya que me costo mucho adaptarme, aunque yendo por el capitulo 4 te vas olvidando de esto. En conclusión para el año de salida y el estudio que eraDebo decir que empece a jugar este juego por la salida del 3, lo mas destacable es la historia, que me pareció hermosa, los mapas me parecieron hermosos, y mas por la época que salio este juego, pero lo que si destaco es el sistema de combate, ya que me costo mucho adaptarme, aunque yendo por el capitulo 4 te vas olvidando de esto. En conclusión para el año de salida y el estudio que era nuevo en esto, fue una buena entrega que nos dieron. Expand
  72. Jan 4, 2019
    8
    This game is good with A great story and graphics for it's time the only problem is the combat.
    The combat is not good but not bad it's A mix of both.
  73. Sep 12, 2018
    10
    This is my favourite game of all time, graphics/story/gameplay is just amazing and i really hope there will be a Witcher 4 coming out in a near future
  74. Oct 10, 2020
    8
    While the graphics and mechanics may have been a little dated even at the time of the release, Witcher's story is very well thought out, and created a great foundation for the future of the series. The rural, Slavic atmosphere of the game is genuinely one of the best.

    There are some tedious quests, repeatable character models and some weird mechanics, but they don't stop you from having
    While the graphics and mechanics may have been a little dated even at the time of the release, Witcher's story is very well thought out, and created a great foundation for the future of the series. The rural, Slavic atmosphere of the game is genuinely one of the best.

    There are some tedious quests, repeatable character models and some weird mechanics, but they don't stop you from having fun in it.
    Expand
  75. Aug 11, 2023
    10
    One of the best RPGs of all time! I can't believe the many choices that completely alter the entire game! You have so much freedom and the game reacts to your difficult, grey choices. Almost no other game does what the Witcher does. It's soooo good!
  76. Jul 2, 2020
    8
    Объективно игра хорошая, но я не осилил. Огромное количество беготни убило весь интерес играть, плюс спицифическая боевка, не очень интересные доп миссии, слабая графика. Но интересный сюжет, отличные персонажи и атмосфераОбъективно игра хорошая, но я не осилил. Огромное количество беготни убило весь интерес играть, плюс спицифическая боевка, не очень интересные доп миссии, слабая графика. Но интересный сюжет, отличные персонажи и атмосфера
  77. Oct 15, 2020
    9
    Summary: The Witcher combines spectacular and visually stunning action with deep and intriguing storyline. The game is set in a world created by best-selling Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. The world shares many common features with other fantasy lands, but there are also some distinguishing elements setting it apart from others. The game features the player as a "Witcher", a warrior whoSummary: The Witcher combines spectacular and visually stunning action with deep and intriguing storyline. The game is set in a world created by best-selling Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. The world shares many common features with other fantasy lands, but there are also some distinguishing elements setting it apart from others. The game features the player as a "Witcher", a warrior who has been trained to fight since childhood, subjected to mutations and trials that transformed him. He earns his living killing monsters and is a member of a brotherhood founded long ago to protect people from werewolves, the undead, and a host of other beasts. It's an action oriented, visually stunning, easy to use, single player RPG, with a deep and intriguing storyline. [CD Projekt] Expand
  78. Jan 13, 2022
    9
    high quality and morale
    very nice game if I need to compare among all other games by the way.
  79. Aug 29, 2023
    9
    This is the beginning of a legend. While many mechanics and the graphics were improved in the sequels, the story stays epic. Overall rating: 8.9.
  80. Oct 2, 2021
    8
    The first Witcher was actually a very good game, an introduction to a masterpiece franchise that tells a masterpiece polish novel
  81. Jul 16, 2022
    9
    9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 99 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 99 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 point!
  82. Aug 30, 2022
    10
    The most atmospheric game in the series. In addition, I like the soundtrack in the first part more than in the other two.
  83. Mar 7, 2023
    9
    Este juego aún no lo eh jugado o completado, así que pondré una reseña y nota diferentes cuando lo haga.
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 50 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 50
  2. Negative: 0 out of 50
  1. So if you’re looking for a dark and moody role-playing game that is different than everything else out there, and if you have a reasonably powerful computer that can handle the engine, and if you don’t mind adult themes that are more than a little male-centric, then the Witcher is certainly a game to consider.
  2. Trading more traditional, menu-drilling RPG “depth” for sheer style, action, mechanical elegance and what might be called a refreshingly grim mood, The Witcher is one of the most compelling - if not the cheeriest - fantasy excursions to come along in many a moon.
  3. The Witcher is a fantastic RPG, a perfect recreation of the world imagined by Sapkowski. Being focused in a complex story as it is, the many hours of play will make us completely disregard the absence of multiplayer of any kind.