As a speedrunner who loves the rush of shaving off valuable seconds, I usually steer clear of huge open-world RPGs. These games focus more on big stories and immersive settings than the tight, fast-paced action I crave. However, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt caught my eye because of all the praise it gets and its legendary status in gaming. After spending hours exploring its vast lands and taking on countless quests, here’s my take on this renowned title from a speedrunner’s point of view.
Detailed Combat System
Playing as Geralt of Rivia, a genetically enhanced monster hunter, you use many weapons, spells, and potion blends to fight evil. The combat system requires some planning—mixing sword strikes with magical attacks. While it doesn’t give the kind of reflex-heavy challenge speedrunners love, it still has plenty of depth.
Expansive Open World
The open world is both a plus and a drawback. On one hand, its size stands out, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay if you check every corner. On the other hand, the sheer scope can overwhelm anyone aiming for speed and efficiency. Because there’s no straight path, the game feels like a double-edged sword—welcoming but also daunting.
Stunning Visuals
Thanks to upgraded details, real-time ray tracing, and community-created mods, the game shines with visual beauty. The updated textures and landscapes make the Continent feel alive. From thick forests to busy cities, every area is full of careful details. It’s easy to get lost in the scenery, but speedrunners need to stay focused on their goals.
Compelling Narrative
The story is easily the game’s strongest feature. It’s full of political intrigue, dark fantasy, and tough moral choices. Tracking down Ciri, the Child of Prophecy, becomes an adventure worth diving into. With branching dialogue options and multiple endings, your choices matter throughout Geralt’s journey, keeping you coming back for more.
Memorable Characters
Characters in The Witcher 3 leave a lasting mark. From the cynical yet likable Geralt to the mysterious sorceress Yennefer and the strong, independent Ciri, each one adds real value to the story. The great voice acting only pulls you deeper into this engaging world.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt shines with a detailed combat system that blends swordplay and magic attacks, and its stunning visuals—boosted by real-time ray tracing and rich, immersive environments—keep players hooked, while a compelling narrative packed with political intrigue, dark fantasy, and tough choices adds depth, and its memorable characters, backed by top-notch voice acting, bring the story to life; however, its expansive open world can easily overwhelm anyone focused on speed and efficiency, and the complex mechanics might not suit traditional speedrunners who crave nonstop, precision-focused gameplay.
Conclusion
While The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt isn’t tailored for traditional speedrunning, it shines in almost every other way. The deep story, layered characters, and beautiful visuals make it a treasure for RPG fans. Yet, it can feel too big and slow for those who prefer razor-sharp precision and nonstop action.
If you’re into open-world fantasy RPGs, this game is a must-play. But if you, like me, chase fast-paced thrills, go in with realistic expectations. Be ready to get pulled into its rich world, and you might just learn to enjoy gaming beyond pure speed.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
A breathtaking adventure for RPG fans, but a tough challenge for speedrunners.
