Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Watch 14 minutes of The Witcher 3's gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/watch-14-minutes-of-the-witcher-3s-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/watch-14-minutes-of-the-witcher-3s-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/watch-14-minutes-of-the-witcher-3s-gameplay/#comments
Have you finished reading about the first three hours of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt? If you don't want the wild ride to end, then check out this 14-minute gameplay trailer to see some horseback riding, conversations and exploration in the game. The Witcher 3 will launch on May 19 for Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC.

While the PC game can import save files from The Witcher 2, the console versions will not. Rather, the PS4 and Xbox one versions will simulate world states in the game based on an in-game conversation. The Witcher 3 was previously expected to launch next month, but CD Projekt RED delayed the game back in December.
[Image: WBIE]

JoystiqWatch 14 minutes of The Witcher 3's gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redgameplay-trailergameplay-videomicrosoftpcplaystationps4rpgthe-witcher-3trailervideoWarner-Bros-Interactive-Entertainmentwbiexbox-oneTue, 27 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 on consoles can simulate world states, can't import Witcher 2 saves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/the-witcher-3-on-consoles-can-simulate-world-states-cant-impor/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/the-witcher-3-on-consoles-can-simulate-world-states-cant-impor/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/the-witcher-3-on-consoles-can-simulate-world-states-cant-impor/#comments On PC, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt can import a Witcher 2 save file to "impact your playthrough" of the third entry, but on consoles CD Projekt is taking a different approach. In a roundtable interview Level Designer Miles Tost told Joystiq that The Witcher 3 will look to simulate world states based on decisions taken in an in-game conversation.

"The way how it works is that the game on the consoles will ask you whether you want to simulate a specific state of the world, coming from previous games," Tost explained. "If you choose 'yes,' then you will get a special conversation at one part of the game - I don't want to spoil where it happens. It's basically a conversation with a character and the conversation is about the adventures of Geralt of Rivia. And you can basically deny or confirm whatever [the character] has heard of whatever tales of [Geralt.] It's actually kind of a cute mechanic. If you don't want to simulate the state then this conversation doesn't take place."

Continue reading The Witcher 3 on consoles can simulate world states, can't import Witcher 2 saves

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 on consoles can simulate world states, can't import Witcher 2 saves originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandai-namcomicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3wb-gamesxbox-oneTue, 27 Jan 2015 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[On track with the first three hours of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/on-track-with-the-first-three-hours-of-the-witcher-3-wild-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/on-track-with-the-first-three-hours-of-the-witcher-3-wild-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/on-track-with-the-first-three-hours-of-the-witcher-3-wild-hunt/#comments
There's an immediate intimacy to my first three or so hours with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, and no, I don't mean the bare buttocks I see in one of the opening cut scenes. The third entry in CD Projekt's fantasy RPG series may offer a new open world that's umpteen times bigger than previous entries. Yet, following a story-driven tutorial, I end up losing myself to the very first landmark, the peasant village of White Orchard.

It's a small riverside muddle of hovels, taverns and fields, its warm hues belying the deeper, darker stories within. There's the impulse to call my horse and gallop towards the horizon, but I find the village's multitude of side quests as welcoming as they are distracting, and certainly meaty enough to steer me away from temptation.

Eventually I drag myself to the main quest and my first wild hunt of The Witcher 3, as I track and take on a huge, bloodthirsty griffin. But before all that, let's return to those buttocks...

Continue reading On track with the first three hours of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

JoystiqOn track with the first three hours of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandai-namcocd-projektmicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3wb-gamesxbox-oneMon, 26 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 PC requirements are hefty, not surprising]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/the-witcher-3-pc-requirements-are-hefty-not-surprising/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/the-witcher-3-pc-requirements-are-hefty-not-surprising/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/the-witcher-3-pc-requirements-are-hefty-not-surprising/#comments The minimum and recommended PC requirements for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are on the higher end of things, CD Projekt RED announced via Twitter today. Minimum specs include an Intel i5 processor, 6GB RAM, DX11 and 40GB hard drive space. Recommended specs include an i7 processor, 8GB RAM, DX11 and 40GB hard drive space. See the full requirements in the below press release.

The Witcher series has set a high standard for itself, in terms of graphics and massiveness. In December, CD Projekt RED delayed The Witcher 3 from a February launch to May 19, 2015, citing many in-game details that required further completion and tweaking.

"When we release the most important game in our studio's history, we must be absolutely sure that we did everything we could to limit any bugs to a level that will allow you to enjoy the game thoroughly," CD Projekt RED said. Days after the delay announcement, President and Joint CEO Adam Kicinski said that fans took the news well. "[The] market is afraid of badly polished games on next-gen platforms," he said.
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

Continue reading The Witcher 3 PC requirements are hefty, not surprising

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 PC requirements are hefty, not surprising originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redpcpc-requirementspc-specsthe-witcher-3Wed, 07 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaze upon The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's steelbook art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/gaze-upon-the-witcher-3-wild-hunts-steelbook-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/gaze-upon-the-witcher-3-wild-hunts-steelbook-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/gaze-upon-the-witcher-3-wild-hunts-steelbook-art/#comments
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's Collector's Edition steelbooks will be beautiful in addition to sturdy, judging by the artwork StudioKxx has designed for their covers. Which of three designs from the gallery below will you choose when Wild Hunt launches on May 19?
[Image: StudioKxx, CD Projekt Red]

JoystiqGaze upon The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's steelbook art originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redcollectors-editionmicrosoftpcplaystationps4steelbookstudiokxxthe-witcher-3xbox-oneSun, 04 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Weekly: Telltale takes on Minecraft, Xeodrifter review, broken games and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/21/joystiq-weekly-telltale-takes-on-minecraft-xeodrifter-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/21/joystiq-weekly-telltale-takes-on-minecraft-xeodrifter-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/21/joystiq-weekly-telltale-takes-on-minecraft-xeodrifter-review/#commentsWelcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet.
Telltale Games looked at Minecraft's build-what-you-want universe and decided to build an episodic, narrative-driven game instead of a crummy castle like the rest of us. At this point, we wouldn't even be surprised if Telltale Games' next project is a narrative-driven series starring Samuel the rock ... it would probably be well-written, too.

There's a bit more to this week's recap beyond Telltale's latest reveal though, including ports of the last two Devil May Cry games, free games for those that own Assassin's Creed Unity's season pass, a review of Xeodrifter and an assessment of recent high-profile, broken-at-launch games. All that and more is waiting for you after the break in this edition of the Joystiq Weekly!

Continue reading Joystiq Weekly: Telltale takes on Minecraft, Xeodrifter review, broken games and more

JoystiqJoystiq Weekly: Telltale takes on Minecraft, Xeodrifter review, broken games and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-unitybloodbornebroken-gamesdevil-may-cryduck huntevolvehumble-bundlejoystiq-weeklymario-makermarvel-vs-capcom-originsminecraftminecraft-story-mode-a-telltale-game-seriespunsTellTale-Gamesthe-witcher-3ubisoftxeodrifterSun, 21 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mystery girl Ciri joins The Witcher 3 as new playable lead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/mystery-girl-ciri-joins-the-witcher-3-as-new-playable-lead/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/mystery-girl-ciri-joins-the-witcher-3-as-new-playable-lead/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/mystery-girl-ciri-joins-the-witcher-3-as-new-playable-lead/#comments Where previous games have exclusively dropped players into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt includes a new playable character: a mysterious white-haired young woman named Ciri.

"A descendant in a long-lost Elven-blood lineage, Ciri plays an important role in the Witcher lore - a powerful, living weapon capable of both healing and destroying the world she inhabits," reads developer CD Projekt RED's official description. "As Ciri is pursued by the Wild Hunt, a cavalcade of ghastly riders capable of unspeakable destruction, as well as the mighty Empire of Nilfgaard, it's down to Geralt to explore The Witcher 3's vast, open world to find her before anyone else does." The studio remains largely coy on what Ciri brings to combat, though it does note that she's an agile swordfighter with short-range teleportation abilities and a dark, possibly cataclysmic secret.

Though Ciri brings a novel face to the series, CD Projekt RED stresses that Geralt is still the star of The Witcher 3. "Adding Ciri as a playable character unlocks quite a few narrative possibilities for the team, though while Ciri is a major character, she is not a playable character in the same way as Geralt - the game is still about him, his story and how you, as the player, choose to face the choices and encounters in front of you," the developer stated.

How the presence of a female protagonist might affect the series' traditionally libertine approach to nudity is unknown, but the developer claims more information on Ciri's role in The Witcher 3 is coming shortly. Barring further delays, The Witcher 3 is slated to reach the Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC on May 19.
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

Continue reading Mystery girl Ciri joins The Witcher 3 as new playable lead

JoystiqMystery girl Ciri joins The Witcher 3 as new playable lead originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2014 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projektcd-projekt-redcirimicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneMon, 15 Dec 2014 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 dev: The market is afraid of badly-polished games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/the-witcher-3-dev-the-market-is-afraid-of-badly-polished-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/the-witcher-3-dev-the-market-is-afraid-of-badly-polished-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/the-witcher-3-dev-the-market-is-afraid-of-badly-polished-games/#comments When CD Projekt RED delayed The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt to May 19, 2015 earlier this week, the developer said it saw "many details that need to be corrected" in the game before it was ready to launch. The group's President and Joint CEO Adam Kicinski added to that statement, telling Polish financial journalists (as translated by Eurogamer) that the studio's fans "took our decision very well. [The] market is afraid of badly polished games on next-gen platforms."

While Kicinski did not name any games or developers in particular, games such as Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed: Unity, Sony's DriveClub and Microsoft's Halo: The Master Chief Collection encountered varying, severe issues at their respective launches on PS4 and Xbox One this year. The CD Projekt head also said the developer wants "to disarm the opinion that [The Witcher 3] doesn't exist. It will be closed by the end of the year in line with the schedule." Kicinski said there are "a lot of small errors" in the game, which are "the only reason behind the delay," and that the company doesn't want to "release the game with bugs that undermine the gameplay." CD Projekt admitted it "set the release date too hastily" when it aimed for February 2015, which itself was a delay from The Witcher 3's previous 2014 launch window.
[Image: WBIE]

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 dev: The market is afraid of badly-polished games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-kicinskiCD-Projektcd-projekt-redceodelaydelayeddelaysmicrosoftpcplaystationpresidentps4the-witcher-3the-witcher-3-wild-huntWarner-Bros-Interactive-Entertainmentwbiexbox-oneWed, 10 Dec 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 delayed to May 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/08/the-witcher-3-delayed-to-may-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/08/the-witcher-3-delayed-to-may-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/08/the-witcher-3-delayed-to-may-2015/#comments The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has been delayed to May 19, 2015, CD Projekt RED announced. The game was previously expected to launch in February 2015, but the studio said it sees "many details that need to be corrected" as the game nears the end of its development. "When we release the most important game in our studio's history, we must be absolutely sure that we did everything we could to limit any bugs to a level that will allow you to enjoy the game thoroughly," the developer added.

CD Projekt said it "set the release date too hastily," and that it owes its fans an apology for the delay. "It's a hard lesson, one to take to heart for the future. We know what we want to do to make Wild Hunt one of the best RPGs you will ever play. And we continue to work hard to achieve just that," the developer said. The Witcher 3 is in development for PC, Xbox One and PS4.
[Image: WBIE]

Continue reading The Witcher 3 delayed to May 2015

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 delayed to May 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redDelaydelayedmicrosoftpcplaystationps4release-datethe-witcher-3the-witcher-3-wild-huntWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentWBIExbox-oneMon, 08 Dec 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher 3: Wild Hunt includes 16 free DLC packs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/06/witcher-3-the-wild-hunt-includes-16-free-dlc-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/06/witcher-3-the-wild-hunt-includes-16-free-dlc-packs/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/06/witcher-3-the-wild-hunt-includes-16-free-dlc-packs/#comments The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will have 16 post-launch DLC packs, all of them free. Witcher 3 launches on February 24, and the first DLC drop is on February 25, including two content packs, the Temerian Armor Set (horse armor included) and a Beard and Hairstyle Set for the main character, Geralt. Each week after release, two more DLC packs will launch for the game until all 16 are distributed. Yes, for free.

Developer CD Projekt Red stresses that there's no need to pre-order or get a special edition to receive the DLC. In an open letter, CEO Marcin Iwiński says the following:

"As gamers, we nowadays have to hold on tight to our wallets, as surprisingly right after release, lots of tiny pieces of tempting content materialize with a steep price tag attached. Haven't we just paid a lot of cash for a brand new game? As CD PROJEKT RED, we strongly believe this is not the way it should work and, with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, we have decided to do it differently. Cutting to the chase, everyone who buys Wild Hunt will receive 16 specially prepared DLCs absolutely for free, regardless of platform."
[Image: CD Projekt Red]

Continue reading Witcher 3: Wild Hunt includes 16 free DLC packs

JoystiqWitcher 3: Wild Hunt includes 16 free DLC packs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2014 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redDLCmicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneThu, 06 Nov 2014 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Heads roll in gorgeous Witcher 3 intro cinematic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/heads-roll-in-gorgeous-witcher-3-intro-cinematic/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/heads-roll-in-gorgeous-witcher-3-intro-cinematic/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/heads-roll-in-gorgeous-witcher-3-intro-cinematic/#comments

As this meticulously rendered intro cinematic for The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt demonstrates, Geralt of Rivia's world is a dark place, full of arcane magicks, hardened warriors and horse heads flying through the air like so many bloody pigeons.
[Image: CD Projekt]

JoystiqHeads roll in gorgeous Witcher 3 intro cinematic originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektmicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneFri, 24 Oct 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobile MOBA Witcher Battle Arena seeks beta testers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/21/mobile-moba-witcher-battle-arena-seeks-beta-testers/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/21/mobile-moba-witcher-battle-arena-seeks-beta-testers/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/21/mobile-moba-witcher-battle-arena-seeks-beta-testers/#comments While the interminable wait for The Witcher 3 drags on, developer CD Projekt RED has opened beta sign-ups for the game's spin-off multiplayer online battle arena game, the aptly-titled Witcher Battle Arena.

Though developer Fuero Games offers no word on when the beta test will commence, it does explain what would-be testers are signing up for. "Upon being granted access to the event, selected participants will be given the possibility to playtest 8 heroes on two maps playable in Conquest Mode -The Arena and Korath Desert," reads the developer's official announcement. "Players will also have the opportunity to develop their player profiles in an RPG fashion, as well as help to test several other functionalities present in the full game coming later this year."

To sign up for the imminent beta test, CD Projekt RED asks that fans enter their pertinent details on the game's beta website. Be aware though, this beta test is only seeking Android users. Sorry Apple fans, but if it's any consolation you can find a brand new trailer for Witcher Battle Arena beyond the break.
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

Continue reading Mobile MOBA Witcher Battle Arena seeks beta testers

JoystiqMobile MOBA Witcher Battle Arena seeks beta testers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Aug 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbetabeta-testcd-projekt-rediosipadmobilethe-witcher-3witcher-battle-arenaThu, 21 Aug 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[35 minutes of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/19/35-minutes-of-the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/19/35-minutes-of-the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/19/35-minutes-of-the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-gameplay/#comments If you didn't have the opportunity to travel all the way to Gamescom last week and check out the latest footage of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt in action, are you ever in luck right now! Here's 35 minutes taken directly from the presentation at last week's show.

Now, there are some elements from the Gamescom presentation missing in the video and we should point these out for you. First, you won't have to make an appointment to see it. Next, you won't be packed into a really warm room with comfy chairs where you may or may not fall asleep on your boss' shoulder (Sorry, Ludwig). Three ... no, seriously, accidentally snuggling your boss gets really weird quick.

Check out the video after the break. The video of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, not of me snuggling Ludwig. That'll require a Joystiq Premium membership.

Continue reading 35 minutes of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt gameplay

Joystiq35 minutes of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redgamescomgamescom-2014microsoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneTue, 19 Aug 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3's 'Gwent' mini-game is quite a card]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/15/the-witcher-3s-gwent-mini-game-is-quite-a-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/15/the-witcher-3s-gwent-mini-game-is-quite-a-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/15/the-witcher-3s-gwent-mini-game-is-quite-a-card/#comments The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt will feature a card game within the open-world RPG, CD Project Red revealed. "Gwent" is a "fast-paced card game" invented by dwarves that includes four factions. Players duel with other characters using over 150 playing cards with multiple combat styles, heroes and spells. Gwent represents a "clash of two armies locked in mortal struggle on a battlefield," in which players' decks act as their forces.

The developer also revealed the inclusion of bonus physical goodies for the Xbox One Collector's Edition of The Witcher 3. In addition to the 200-page artbook, medallion, steelbook and cases, limited edition Xbox One owners will receive a a cloth map of the game's world and two physical Gwent card decks. Best Buy, GameStop and Walmart listings peg the Collector's Edition at roughly $150. The Witcher 3 will launch on February 24, 2015 for PS4, Xbox One and PC.
[Image: WBIE]

Continue reading The Witcher 3's 'Gwent' mini-game is quite a card

JoystiqThe Witcher 3's 'Gwent' mini-game is quite a card originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>card-gameccgCD-Projektcd-projekt-redcollectors-editiongwentLimited-Editionmicrosoftpcplaystationps4rpgtcgthe-witcher-3the-witcher-3-wild-hunttrading-card-gameWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentWBIExbox-oneFri, 15 Aug 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Live improv saves the day when Witcher 3 SDCC panel goes awry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/10/live-improv-saves-the-day-when-witcher-3-sdcc-panel-goes-awry/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/10/live-improv-saves-the-day-when-witcher-3-sdcc-panel-goes-awry/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/10/live-improv-saves-the-day-when-witcher-3-sdcc-panel-goes-awry/#comments
Pop quiz, hotshot. You're at the San Diego Comic-Con panel for The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt. A demo showing live gameplay has started, but none of the characters' voices are working. You've got a packed room full of fans who want to see the game in presentable condition, and not enough time to start over and try again. What do you do? What do you do? Well, if you're Doug Cockle, voice actor behind Witcher series hero Geralt of Rivia, you start performing your lines live.

Despite the potentially embarrassing circumstances, Witcher 3 developer CD Projekt RED has taken its technologically-challenged SDCC panel and made it available for viewing in a video showing Cockle's live improv outtakes. If you've ever wanted to hear Geralt call a big, burly bald man "cute," well ... now's your chance.
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

JoystiqLive improv saves the day when Witcher 3 SDCC panel goes awry originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redcomic-condoug-cocklegeralthumorimprovmicrosoftpcplaystationps4san-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2014sdccthe-witcherthe-witcher-3the-witcher-3-wild-huntxbox-oneSun, 10 Aug 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The massive, bloody world of The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/10/the-massive-bloody-world-of-the-witcher-3-the-wild-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/10/the-massive-bloody-world-of-the-witcher-3-the-wild-hunt/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/10/the-massive-bloody-world-of-the-witcher-3-the-wild-hunt/#comments Though the first two Witcher games offered a very convincing dark fantasy, roleplaying experience, too often they forced players to follow a linear, almost claustrophobic path. Not so in The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt, where climbing to the top of a mountain offers an immense vista populated entirely by locations players can actually visit.

But it's not just the structure of the virtual realm that impresses, as The Witcher 3 is defined by its smaller components: the slick of a puddle lying in the middle of a city street, a murky, methane haze rising from swamplands and mummified bats decorating the home of a magically-inclined crone. "At CD Projekt RED we pride ourselves on our attention to detail," the developers told me during a screening of the game's early moments. "It's all these details and more that make The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt a true open-world experience."
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

Continue reading The massive, bloody world of The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt

JoystiqThe massive, bloody world of The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-rede3-2014microsoftpcplaystationps4the-witcherthe-witcher-3xbox-oneTue, 10 Jun 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Weekly: GOG's Galaxy, Murdered: Soul Suspect review, Homefront's combat and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/07/joystiq-weekly-gogs-galaxy-murdered-soul-suspect-review-hom/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/07/joystiq-weekly-gogs-galaxy-murdered-soul-suspect-review-hom/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/07/joystiq-weekly-gogs-galaxy-murdered-soul-suspect-review-hom/#commentsWelcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet.
E3 doesn't technically start until June 10, but with all of this week's announcements and E3 trailers, you wouldn't really know it. Forza Horizon 2 will let you drive recklessly later this year, Homefront is due for a return in Homefront: The Revolution, and the thinly-veiled Mortal Kombat X tease is finally over.

And that's just the early stuff - we're about to get trampled with news and hands-on demonstrations as the convention itself kicks off next week. Don't worry though, we'll survive by channeling Simba's light-footed evasive maneuvers. Just ... y'know, without the tragic loss immediately preceding our exercise.

You don't have to stick around and watch us warm up though - this week's highlights are waiting for you after the break. There are release dates for The Witcher 3 and Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved, reviews for 1,001 Spikes and Tomodachi Life, and an exploration of combat in Homefront: The Revolution. It's all awaiting you neat and orderly-like after the jump!

Continue reading Joystiq Weekly: GOG's Galaxy, Murdered: Soul Suspect review, Homefront's combat and more

JoystiqJoystiq Weekly: GOG's Galaxy, Murdered: Soul Suspect review, Homefront's combat and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2014 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1001-spikesalways-sometimes-monstersbatman-arkham-knightbattlefield-hardlineDark-souls-2fantasia-music-evolvedforza-horizon-2galaxygoghomefront-the-revolutionmortal-kombat-xmurdered-soul-suspectpinball-fx-2the-walking-deadthe-witcher-3tomodachi-lifeSat, 07 Jun 2014 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher Adventure Game brings board game epic back to the PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/05/witcher-adventure-game-brings-board-game-epic-back-to-the-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/05/witcher-adventure-game-brings-board-game-epic-back-to-the-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/05/witcher-adventure-game-brings-board-game-epic-back-to-the-pc/#comments

From hit fantasy novel, to PC game, to board game and now back to the PC, CD Projekt RED has revealed plans to translate dark fantasy epic The Witcher from cardboard maps and dice to the electronic climes of your home computer.

Available for cross-play on either Steam or the newly-revealed GOG Galaxy, the Witcher Adventure Game is slated to make its official debut on both PC and Mac later this year. However, CD Projekt RED is currently accepting applications for beta testing via the newly-revealed GOG Galaxy distribution system. If you pay a visit to gog.com/galaxy, you can add your name to the list of prospective testers. Those who also pre-order The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt will be granted two beta keys, instead of one.
[Image: Joystiq]

JoystiqWitcher Adventure Game brings board game epic back to the PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2014 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>board-gamecd-projekt-redmacpcthe-witcherthe-witcher-3witcher-adventure-gameThu, 05 Jun 2014 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt arrives in February, 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/05/the-witcher-3-arrives-in-february-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/05/the-witcher-3-arrives-in-february-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/05/the-witcher-3-arrives-in-february-2015/#comments

During a video conference held this morning, publisher CD Projekt RED revealed that The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt will make its official debut on February 24, 2015. The dark fantasy epic is slated to appear on Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC, in both retail and digital incarnations. Expect more details to emerge as the conference rolls on.
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

JoystiqThe Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt arrives in February, 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2014 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redmicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneThu, 05 Jun 2014 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[New Witcher 3 details to emerge via online conference]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/29/new-witcher-3-details-to-emerge-via-online-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/29/new-witcher-3-details-to-emerge-via-online-conference/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/29/new-witcher-3-details-to-emerge-via-online-conference/#comments

Come June 5, CD Projekt RED will finally offer fans a proper look at The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt via streaming video conference.

Slated to kick off on June 5 at 2PM Eastern Standard Time, the show promises to reveal new details on The Witcher 3, more information on its inevitable pre-order scheme, and word on what's inside the game's limited Collector's Edition. Most crucially, the event will include "previously unseen footage" of The Witcher 3, a game which has garnered a surprising amount of pre-release hype given what scant media we've seen to date.

Best of all, it will cost you nothing to attend this online conference. Simply wait until the appointed time, then pay a visit to the official website to view the presentation.
[Image: CD Projekt RED]

JoystiqNew Witcher 3 details to emerge via online conference originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redmicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneThu, 29 May 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher dev says 1080p vs 720p is 'a PR differentiation']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/15/witcher-dev-says-1080p-vs-720p-is-a-pr-differentiation/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/15/witcher-dev-says-1080p-vs-720p-is-a-pr-differentiation/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/15/witcher-dev-says-1080p-vs-720p-is-a-pr-differentiation/#comments We're not sure at what resolution The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will run on consoles, but Marcin Iwinski, co-founder of developer CD Projekt, doesn't seem to believe it matters much. "It's more of a PR differentiation," Iwinski told Eurogamer.

"We had the debate in the studio about it and actually asked our tech guys to explain how it works," Iwinski said. "And they sent me some complicated graphs that if I have this size of the screen, and I sit one meter or two meters from it, then I might be able to see the difference."

Iwinski said he and his team are still working on maximizing each system's power, but that there were no plans to place artificial restrictions to make the game run the same across platforms. "It's against our values to dumb anything down for the sake of some business arrangement," he said.
[Image: CD Projekt]

JoystiqWitcher dev says 1080p vs 720p is 'a PR differentiation' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2014 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektmarcin-iwinskimicrosoftpcplaystationps4resolutionthe-witcherthe-witcher-3xbox-oneThu, 15 May 2014 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 delayed to February 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/11/the-witcher-3-delayed-to-february-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/11/the-witcher-3-delayed-to-february-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/11/the-witcher-3-delayed-to-february-2015/#comments Poland-based developer CD Projekt Red announced that the release of its multiplatform action-RPG, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, has been delayed to next year as the studio focuses on testing and polish.

"We could have released the game towards the end of this year as we had initially planned," the team explains. "Yet we concluded that a few additional months will let us achieve the quality that will satisfy us, the quality gamers expect from us. Consequently, we have set the release of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt for February 2015."

The full text of CD Projekt Red's announcement is available after the break below.

[Image: CD Projekt Red]

Continue reading The Witcher 3 delayed to February 2015

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 delayed to February 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Mar 2014 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-reddelaymicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneTue, 11 Mar 2014 13:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai taking The Witcher 3 to Australia, New Zealand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/18/namco-bandai-taking-the-witcher-3-to-australia-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/18/namco-bandai-taking-the-witcher-3-to-australia-new-zealand/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/18/namco-bandai-taking-the-witcher-3-to-australia-new-zealand/#comments
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is planning to stalk its most dangerous prey yet, with Namco Bandai serving as its Bear Grylls publisher in the poison-filled land of Australia. Oh, and New Zealand too.

Namco Bandai will also be handling Wild Hunt's excursion through Europe, but Warner Bros. will lead the expedition across North America. Wild Hunt is planned to conduct a simultaneous scavenge for wildlife across the PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4 sometime in 2014. Though Wild Hunt will conclude the saga of Geralt of Rivia, CD Projekt Red will leave an opening for a possible return to the Witcher's world in the future.

Continue reading Namco Bandai taking The Witcher 3 to Australia, New Zealand

JoystiqNamco Bandai taking The Witcher 3 to Australia, New Zealand originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Jan 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaCD-Projektcd-projekt-redmicrosoftnamco-bandainew-zealandpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3witcherxbox-oneSat, 18 Jan 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt seeks VGX trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/07/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-seeks-vgx-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/07/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-seeks-vgx-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/07/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-seeks-vgx-trailer/#comments The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will track its prey simultaneously on PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4 sometime in 2014, but tonight the game got a fancy new trailer at the VGX.

The mature RPG series and been announced to have 50 hours of killing monsters, concluding in one of 36 different states.

Continue reading The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt seeks VGX trailer

JoystiqThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt seeks VGX trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Dec 2013 21:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redmicrosoftpcplaystationps4spike-vgx-2013the-witcher-3vgx-2013xbox-oneSat, 07 Dec 2013 21:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco distributing Witcher 3 in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/28/namco-distributing-witcher-3-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/28/namco-distributing-witcher-3-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/28/namco-distributing-witcher-3-in-europe/#comments Namco Bandai captured the rights to distribute The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt in Europe, after forming a deal with CD Projekt to bring the PS4, Xbox One and PC sequel to 24 countries across the continent. To recap, Warner Bros. is set to distribute the RPG in North America when it launches next year.

Namco's agreement with CD Projekt sounds far more harmonious than the debacle surrounding the rights to The Witcher 2. If you'll remember, CD Projekt had agreed to let the now defunct THQ distribute the game in Europe, Central and South America, and the Asia-Pacific region. That all changed when the French courts ruled that CD Projekt had to uphold prior commitments, and offer Namco a new distribution contract. Awkward...

Two years on and all is apparently forgotten and forgiven... or perhaps legally bound again. Either way, it'll be Namco bringing the game to Euro next-gen consoles in 2014.

Continue reading Namco distributing Witcher 3 in Europe

JoystiqNamco distributing Witcher 3 in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Oct 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-ProjektmicrosoftNamco-Bandaipcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneMon, 28 Oct 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt cinematic trailer shows no mercy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/14/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-cinematic-trailer-shows-no-mercy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/14/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-cinematic-trailer-shows-no-mercy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/14/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-cinematic-trailer-shows-no-mercy/#comments
In the moral wasteland of The Witcher, Geralt of Rivia chooses to stick to his own code of ethics. It just so happens that code of ethics often leads him to high-octane, blood-soaked monster killing and cool one-liners.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers around 50 hours of witching, ending in one of 36 different states. CD Projekt's final entry in the current Witcher trilogy still has some ways to go on its journey to PS4, Xbox One, and PC, set to conclude next year.

JoystiqThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt cinematic trailer shows no mercy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Aug 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektmicrosoftpcplaystationps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneWed, 14 Aug 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CD Projekt RED opens new Polish studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/02/cd-projekt-red-opens-new-polish-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/02/cd-projekt-red-opens-new-polish-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/02/cd-projekt-red-opens-new-polish-studio/#commentsWitcher 3 to have no multiplayer, no QTEs The Witcher developer CD Projekt RED announced today it has opened a new studio in Cracow...Krakow?...the city with two K sounds prior to a -ra and -ow, Poland. Spelling confusions aside, the new studio will support the Warsaw studio's development of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Cyberpunk 2077.

"We want to continue to make better and better RPGs and the new studio is another big step in that direction. Cracow, one of the cultural and scientific centers of Europe, is a really special place that will leave a significant mark on our games," said Adam Badowski, Head of CD Projekt RED.

Cyberpunk 2077 could launch in 2077 for all we know at this point. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is tracking Xbox One, Playstation 4 and PC for a 2014 launch.

Continue reading CD Projekt RED opens new Polish studio

JoystiqCD Projekt RED opens new Polish studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Aug 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redcracowkrakowpcpolandthe-witcher-3Fri, 02 Aug 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 rides to North America courtesy of Warner Bros.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/25/the-witcher-3-rides-to-north-america-courtesy-of-warner-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/25/the-witcher-3-rides-to-north-america-courtesy-of-warner-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/25/the-witcher-3-rides-to-north-america-courtesy-of-warner-bros/#commentsThe Witcher 3 rides to North America, courtesy of Warner Bros Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment has partnered with CD Projekt Red to assume promotional and distribution duties in North America for open-world fantasy game The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt.

Due sometime in 2014 for PS4, Xbox One and PC, The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt is the final entry in the current Witcher trilogy, though CD Projekt Red CEO Adam Kicinski has affirmed the "franchise will be continued." While multiplayer was initially a consideration, it was eventually abandoned along with the quick-time events seen in previous Witcher games.

Continue reading The Witcher 3 rides to North America courtesy of Warner Bros.

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 rides to North America courtesy of Warner Bros. originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jul 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redpcthe-witcher-3warner-brosWarner-Bros-InteractiveWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentThu, 25 Jul 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CD Projekt Red's winning formula: focus and respect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/18/cd-projekt-reds-winning-formula-focus-respect-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/18/cd-projekt-reds-winning-formula-focus-respect-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/07/18/cd-projekt-reds-winning-formula-focus-respect-gamers/#commentsCD Projekt Red's winning formula Focus, respect gamers Marcin Iwinski, co-founder of CD Projekt Red, says his company has a pretty straightforward recipe for success: Stick to what you know and respect your audience.

"You will not see from us a lot of diverse stuff. We will not suddenly start making racing games, because I do not think that is where our strength is," Iwinski told Gamasutra. "At the end of the day, what really matters is the experience which you are having with the game when it's out. And this is the one unique moment which defines us. If it's an average experience, pretty much what we are doing every day doesn't make sense."

Iwinski also said respecting gamers has a direct correlation to sales, using CD Projekt Red's handling of The Witcher series as an example. CD Projekt Red produced the first game then The Witcher: Enhanced Edition, followed by The Witcher 2 and The Witcher 2: Enhanced Edition. Rather than charge PC players for the Enhanced Edition content, CD Projekt offered the DLC up for free. Iwinski said this choice was made because "we think we could have done better" so "here it is."

Iwinski added that gamers "appreciate" that approach and "they tell their friends we are doing a good job and we respect them. And ultimately it will result in a sale." Some may wonder why CD Projekt Red would offer the content for free and not charge for it, to which Iwinski replies, "I think the value in the whole proposition is that we are honest, straightforward, and fair, and this pays back. So you can call it a business model, in a way."

JoystiqCD Projekt Red's winning formula: focus and respect originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Jul 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redcyberpunk-2077marcin-iwinskipcplaystation-4ps4the-witcher-3xbox-oneThu, 18 Jul 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 DRM-free on PC; 'gamer-friendly' solution sought on consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/the-witcher-3-drm-free-on-pc-gamer-friendly-solution-sought-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/the-witcher-3-drm-free-on-pc-gamer-friendly-solution-sought-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/the-witcher-3-drm-free-on-pc-gamer-friendly-solution-sought-o/#comments The Witcher series of action role-playing games is reaching further than ever before, with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt launching simultaneously on PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4 in 2014. The new consoles have been mired in discussion over DRM (digital rights management) recently, with Microsoft instituting connectivity requirements to play games, and PlayStation leaving publishers to decide how to control the sale and resale of their content. The Polish developer behind The Witcher, CD Projekt RED, now tries to find an ideal incarnation for its publicly asserted values, which are staunchly opposed to DRM of any kind.

"I can only talk about our intentions; we don't have any agreement finalized yet," CD Projekt co-founder Marcin Iwiński tells me, carefully choosing his words. "It's all quite early and we're finding out about it this week, at the conference. But our intention, obviously, is to choose the most gamer-friendly solution." In CD Projekt's perfect world, those solutions would be aligned with their PC- and Mac-based digital distribution platform, GOG.com, where games are 100 percent DRM-free. "Whatever the solutions will be for our partners, we choose something ideally as close to what we have on GOG as possible."

Continue reading The Witcher 3 DRM-free on PC; 'gamer-friendly' solution sought on consoles

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 DRM-free on PC; 'gamer-friendly' solution sought on consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014cd-projekt-reddrme3-2013marcin-iwinskipcthe-witcher-3Fri, 14 Jun 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CD Projekt Red reveals The Witcher 3 for Xbox One [Update: Trailer]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/cd-projekt-red-reveals-the-witcher-3-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/cd-projekt-red-reveals-the-witcher-3-for-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/cd-projekt-red-reveals-the-witcher-3-for-xbox-one/#comments
CD Projekt Red revealed that its open-world RPG The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is coming to the Xbox One.

The Xbox One version of The Witcher 3 is bolstered by unique hardware-driven features. Kinect voice commands for allow quick weapon-switching and magic, and players can use SmartGlass to customize characters and manage their inventory during gameplay.

JoystiqCD Projekt Red reveals The Witcher 3 for Xbox One [Update: Trailer] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redkinectmicrosoftsmartglassthe-witcher-3xboxxbox-oneMon, 10 Jun 2013 13:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher 3 skipping quick-time events and multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/witcher-3-skipping-quick-time-events-and-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/witcher-3-skipping-quick-time-events-and-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/witcher-3-skipping-quick-time-events-and-multiplayer/#comments Witcher 3 to have no multiplayer, no QTEsKonrad Tomaszkiewicz, project lead on The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, has confirmed multiplayer modes, quick-time events, and DRM are not part of the plan for the third entry in the role-playing game series.

The "final saga of Geralt" will maintain a focus on single-player content, Tomaszkiewicz told Forbes, though multiplayer had been considered for the game at one point.

Quick-time events found in previous Witcher games have also been abandoned. The lead designer noted that QTEs "didn't fit" the experience and often leads to frustration for players. "There is a small number of games where it is fun, like, for example, in the Uncharted series, where you don't even realize that you've just finished a QTE sequence. And I think that only this way of using QTE has any kind of future in games."

Calling digital rights management "the worst thing in the gaming industry," Tomaszkiewicz confirmed The Witcher 3 will not have such restrictions. Though the decision against using DRM applies to retail copies and CD Projekt's GOG.com platform, other digital distributors such as Steam would still feature its own form of DRM. Distribution channels for The Witcher 3 have not been announced.

The Witcher 3 is coming to the PC, PS4, and "high-end platforms" next year.

JoystiqWitcher 3 skipping quick-time events and multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-rights-managementdrmKonrad-Tomaszkiewiczmicrosoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3quick-time-eventsthe-witcher-3wild-huntxboxThu, 25 Apr 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 features more than 300 small variations in its endings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/the-witcher-3-features-more-than-300-small-variations-in-its-end/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/the-witcher-3-features-more-than-300-small-variations-in-its-end/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/the-witcher-3-features-more-than-300-small-variations-in-its-end/#comments The Witcher 3 features more than 300 small variations in its endingsThe Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt features 36 separate "world-states" at the end of the game, leading to three disparate, playable epilogues. The game tracks player choices to such a minute degree that each of these 36 "endings" contain hundreds of smaller changes unique to each player - CD Projekt Red stopped counting once it reached 300, Managing Director Adam Badowski tells Polygon.

"The game is quite complex," Badowski says. "We didn't mean to develop something special for the endings; it's a natural consequence of the storyline. The story has hundreds of different branches and sub-plots. We have to just sum all of those elements up in the epilogues. Some of those elements are taken from the very beginning and some from other moments of the storyline. All of them will connect in the epilogue."

We already know The Witcher 3 will clock in around 50 hours, may support previous save files and that CD Projekt has "something" cooking for multiplayer.

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 features more than 300 small variations in its endings originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redpcplaystationthe-witcher-3Mon, 01 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cyberpunk 2077 multiplayer confirmed, in consideration for Witcher 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/cyberpunk-2077-multiplayer-confirmed-in-consideration-for-witch/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/cyberpunk-2077-multiplayer-confirmed-in-consideration-for-witch/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/cyberpunk-2077-multiplayer-confirmed-in-consideration-for-witch/#comments You and other cyberpunks can play together in CD Projekt Red's upcoming-ish near-future RPG. Speaking to Eurogamer, managing director Adam Badowski said Cyberpunk 2077 "will be a story-based RPG experience with amazing single-player playthroughs, but we're going to add multiplayer features."

As Eurogamer notes, Cyberpunk 2077 doesn't have a pre-defined hero, which maybe makes the game more suitable for multiplayer than CD Projekt's The Witcher series. However, when CD Projekt advertised last year it was looking for a multiplayer programmer, it wasn't clear if that was just for its cyber-RPG and not also for the now revealed Witcher 3.

CD Projekt's Badowski was coy enough to keep multiplayer a fair possibility for Geralt's third adventure, telling Eurogamer "we're thinking about something."

JoystiqCyberpunk 2077 multiplayer confirmed, in consideration for Witcher 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redcyberpunkcyberpunk-2077multiplayerthe-witcher-3Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 around 50 hours, may import saves from previous games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-witcher-3-around-50-hours-may-import-saves-from-previous-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-witcher-3-around-50-hours-may-import-saves-from-previous-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-witcher-3-around-50-hours-may-import-saves-from-previous-ga/#comments New details regarding The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt have emerged on the website of German magazine GameStar. The game will last for approximately 50 hours. Throughout those hours, the world can reach a total of 36 different states, depending on the player's choices. As previously revealed, these choices will also lead to one of three different epilogues.

The article also notes that The Witcher 3 may import save files from previous Witcher games. Developer CD Projekt Red tells Joystiq that it would like to implement such a feature, though the challenges presented by new hardware could make it difficult. Specifically, considering the game will debut on entirely new consoles, including the PS4 and presumably the next Xbox, such a transfer could be impossible. Still, the developer is looking into the possibility.

The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt is slated to arrive next year.

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 around 50 hours, may import saves from previous games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redpcplaystation-4ps4the-witcher-3Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 confirmed for PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-witcher-3-confirmed-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-witcher-3-confirmed-for-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-witcher-3-confirmed-for-ps4/#comments This isn't too surprising considering The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was announced for PC and "high-end platforms," but CD Projekt's confirmed this morning it's coming to the just announced PS4, making it the first Witcher game on a PlayStation console.

As CD Projekt managing director Adam Badowski indicates, Geralt's third adventure is expected on the next Xbox too when the game arrives next year.

"The Witcher 3 will be released in 2014 simultaneously on all high-end platforms available," said Badowski. "We know that our fans are looking forward to that date already, but we want to make it clear that this story is a standalone, and we will be sure [to] introduce newcomers fully to the world so that they don't miss a beat."

Continue reading The Witcher 3 confirmed for PS4

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 confirmed for PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projektps4the-witcher-3Thu, 21 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3 may not be the last Witcher after all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/the-witcher-3-may-not-be-the-last-witcher-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/the-witcher-3-may-not-be-the-last-witcher-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/the-witcher-3-may-not-be-the-last-witcher-after-all/#comments CD Projekt Red seems to be backpedaling faster than Geralt fending off a bruxa, now declaring that The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt may not be the final game in the series. In yesterday's announcement press release, studio head Adam Badowski made what seemed like a pretty definitive statement: "People may ask if this is really going to be the last Witcher game. Yes, it is. Why? Because we believe that we should end the series on a high note."

Eurogamer, however, recently updated its story on The Witcher 3 to say that what Badowski meant was that The Wild Hunt will be the last game in the current Witcher trilogy. Furthermore, CEO Adam Kicinski has stated that the "franchise will be continued."

We contacted CD Projekt Red for clarification on the issue. A spokesperson tells Joystiq, "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will wrap up the saga of Geralt of Rivia, but we do leave open the possibility of returning to the Witcher world." So there you have it, nothing can kill the Witcher, not even the monster of errant marketing.

JoystiqThe Witcher 3 may not be the last Witcher after all originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projekt-redpcthe-witcher-3Wed, 06 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher franchise up to 5 million sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/witcher-franchise-up-to-5-million-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/witcher-franchise-up-to-5-million-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/witcher-franchise-up-to-5-million-sold/#comments CD Projekt's The Witcher games continue to enchant gamers into buying them, with the franchise now over the 5 million mark for copies sold. The figure represents a combined total for The Witcher and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, and with both games on sale this week, it could be on the rise quicker than you can say Gwynbleidd.

A few months after The Wither 2 arrived on Xbox 360, CD Projekt announced the franchise was up to 4 million copies sold. With a further million sold in the six or so months since, it's not surprising to hear CD Projekt SA CEO Adam Kiciński say the console port "largely contributed" to the franchise's new milestone.

Continue reading Witcher franchise up to 5 million sold

JoystiqWitcher franchise up to 5 million sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projektmacmicrosoftpcthe-witcherthe-witcher-2the-witcher-3xboxWed, 06 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will be the last Witcher game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-will-be-the-last-witcher-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-will-be-the-last-witcher-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-will-be-the-last-witcher-game/#comments
"People may ask if this is really going to be the last Witcher game. Yes, it is," CD Projekt Red boss Adam Badowski says in the announcement press release for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This final entry in the series is being slated for launch in 2014, a simultaneous launch on "all high-end platforms."

In regards to the open world, Badowski says players should expect a game world that is "30 times bigger than The Witcher 2" and its world. "Players will freely travel through woods, lakes, mountains, cities, and villages. Each region is inhabited by distinct populations with their own customs, legends and problems." Geralt will have his steed to get around or he can hop on a boat and set sail for his destination.

CD Projekt Red also promises an improved combat system this time around, though nothing specific is mentioned in the press release past the break.

Continue reading The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will be the last Witcher game

JoystiqThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will be the last Witcher game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projektcd-projekt-redgeraltpcthe-witcher-3Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt revealed as 'next generation' RPG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-revealed-as-next-generation-rp/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-revealed-as-next-generation-rp/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-revealed-as-next-generation-rp/#comments The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt outed by Game InformerCD Projekt Red appears to be working on The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, a new open-world entry in the studio's dark RPG series. Game Informer digital subscribers through Zinio can now access the March issue (seen here), which promises The Witcher 3 will take place in a world rivaling Skyrim and larger than any environments featured in the first two games.

CD Projekt's REDengine 3, which the company has said is built for the next wave of systems, will power The Witcher 3 and Geralt's distinguishing beard. According to the digital preview, The Witcher 3 is "for those wild dreamers who want it all."

We've requested further information from CD Projekt Red and will let you know when we hear (and see) more.

Update: Game Informer has published a quick video touching on the development team and the game's direction. Watch it after the break - and marvel at some truly breathtaking hair.

Update 2: The game's due in 2014, says CD Projekt, for PC and "high-end platforms."

Continue reading The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt revealed as 'next generation' RPG

JoystiqThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt revealed as 'next generation' RPG originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 23:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cd-projektcd-projekt-redrelease-datethe-witcher-3the-witcher-3-wild-huntMon, 04 Feb 2013 23:29:00 EST