Release Date:
PC, Playstation 4, Xbox One - May 18, 2015 (Original Release)
Switch - October 15th, 2019
Genre: RPGPrice: $59.99/€59.99
Player(s): 1
Format: Digital/Physical
Developer: CD Projekt and Saber Interactive (Switch port)
Publisher: CD Projekt
Size: ~28 GB (Switch)
What has changed to the visuals on Switch?
The game—to fit the Switch's hardware—has additional compression for the textures and audio, a lower rendering resolution, tweaked LOD, and a lower draw distance for things like NPCs.
Audio is compressed? How does that impact the quality?
The Witcher 3 on Switch has still has significantly better autio compared to ports with heavy compression like Dark Souls Remastered.
Differences between docked and handheld options
Handheld: Dynamic 540p @ 30fps
Docked: Dynamic 720p @ 30fps
How stable are the above frame rates?
Gameplay can dance between 20-30fps in visually dense areas and some cutscenes can drop further than that. Docked is more stable comparatively (about 3-4 frames on average).
How are the load times?
They are comparable, but still longer, to load times on a base PS4. For example:
Switch/PS4
Gyro aiming?
There are no motion control options in the Witcher 3 on Switch..
Is the game content complete compared to other platforms?
Yes. No content has been cut from this port.
What's included in the physical release?
The game cart, a world map, some stickers and a Witcher universe compendium.
Is all the game content on the Switch cartridge?
Yes, aside from a day 1 performance patch.
What is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt?
The Witcher 3 is an acclaimed action role-playing game by Polish developer, CD Projekt Red. You take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a member of the monster hunting group known as Witchers, as he journeys to find his adoptive daughter.
How does the game play?
The Witcher 3 is a third person game where you control Geralt in real time, both in combat and exploration, as you journey through an open world. You'll encounter monsters, quests, side activities and characters all while making decisions on both the narrative and Geralt's skills, equipment and playstyle.
How long is the game?
Depending on difficulty, playstyle and how much you engage with side/expansion content the game can take anywhere from 50 to 200 hours to complete.
Do I need to play the previous games and/or read the book series to understand the story?
It is recommended that you are at least a little familiar with the universe but it's not a requirement to enjoy the game.
Is there a recap/primer for the game?
This is one of the more popular video recaps:
What is included in the Complete Edition?
The Complete Edition includes the two major expansions released for the Witcher 3, Hearts of Stone and Blood & Wine. The game also includes all the free DLC released for the Witcher including a New Game + option, new outfits and equipment.
Can I access the DLC right out of the gate?
Yes, if you choose to you can even have the game generate a level-appropriate Geralt to jump into the DLC with.
Is the game enhanced on the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X?
Yes.
PS4 Pro: Checkerboarded 4k @ 30fps
Xbox One X: Dynamic 4k @ 30fps with an optional uncapped FPS mode.
Does the game have HDR support?
Only on Playstation 4 and HDR compatible Xbox One consoles.
Metacritic
Xbox One | PC | PS4 | Switch
Opencritic
Switch specific reviews are TBA.
Official Site
Digital Foundry Preview
Digital Foundry Tech Breakdown
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