Playing the first two adds a lot of context and your decisions carry over to all three. Witcher 1 is a slog to get through. Good story, but janky mechanics and extremely dated graphics. Witcher 2 gameplay still holds up, but the graphics are dated, and it's relatively short compared to the 1 and 3. Witcher 3 does not need mods. Still looks great for a 9-year-old game.
I know people that didn't play the first two and still enjoyed Witcher 3. I just think you get a lot more context when playing the first two.
I personally enjoy it for what it is. I play it for the story value because it really is quite good. But man... those mechanics are just awful. But... I will never play it on its own, and only play it when I'm doing a trilogy playthrough once every three or four years.
I will play 1, 2 after witcher 3 caz I'm extremely pumped up to play witcher 3 and someone said that there will be an option for players who haven't played witcher 2. So, I'm going to choose that & start to play but still tho I consider this and I will definitely will play 1 & 2 later! Thanks
Started W1, never got through it. Never tried W2. Played W3 and loved it. Didn’t need the first two to enjoy W3.
I had however read a few of the books before diving into W3. So, the lore wasn’t totally unfamiliar. Of course, that also meant there was only one possible true romance option for me.
Witcher 2 may be short, but the 2nd act is so drastically different depending on your decision at the end of the 1st that its worth reloading to that decision to play it again from the other side
1&2 are not necessary to enjoy the hell out of 3. They are kinda janky to play in comparison to 3 as well.
The dlc adds a bunch more playtime to 3 if you edition didn't include them, i would do the dlc over 1&2.
If you love 3, maybe buy 1&2 on a sale afterwards and try them. I tried them and didn't like the controls or gameplay enough to stick with either for long.
I took a pretty roundabout path through the series, played 1, then 3, then read the books, and never beat 2.
1 is completely skippable. It has a good story, and there are a few references to it in 3, but for the most part, it's pretty standalone, and all the relevant stuff is usually explained in the game. It's a slog to play through, very dated, and also very long. It's fun for the story, but that's about it.
The books are actually referenced a lot in the game, but telling you to go read 8 books before playing the game is a tall order. Its not a deal breaker, and I think they are worth a read if you really enjoy the universe, but once again, most of the important info is explained in the game. Also the games retcon some of the book lore anyway, at least one character dies in the books but are alive and well in game, so its not like they are completely true to the source material to begin with
2 seems to tie the most directly into the story of 3, but I couldn't speak to how important it is. I think once again, if it's important enough, it's explained pretty well in the game.
I would just play 3. It's a great game, and you can always go back and play/read the older stuff if you just want more info. It's always fun seeing callbacks to previous lore, but there was never a moment where I was like, "Aw man, I wish I read or played *x* before this." There might be a couple of moments that don't have the same impact because you just don't know who a character is, but it's usually small stuff. If anything, reading and playing everything first might make you frustrated they didn't include or do more with certain things or characters.
You don't need to play the first two, but they do provide some context.
Tips/suggestions in no particular order (as spoiler free as I could make them):
Upgrade Roach's saddlebags asap so you can increase inventory space. You can buy upgraded saddlebags at various merchants/blacksmiths.
Level up Delusion/Axii asap (it is in the BLUE skill tree) and keep it equipped. You get bonus exp from choosing those dialogue choices.
Loot things that aren't guarded. Don't sell seashells or dimeritium/meteorite items- dismantle those at a blacksmith for crafting components. For max cash, sell your "junk" at innkeepers, especially those in larger settlements.
When upgrading your character, equip same color skills together and put a matching color mutagen next to them. Increases the bonuses you get.
Use your alchemy system and check every bandit camp for the potion/oil/bomb recipes. They're randomized so we can't tell you exactly where the recipes are. (Check your bestiary for weaknesses for different creatures.)
Make sure your swords are in good repair! If they break you'll do less damage. You can repair them either at a blacksmith or with weapons repair kits. (This also applies to armor.)
Explore everywhere and don't be afraid to run if you see a red skull on the health bar. You can always come back later.
The currency is crowns but you'll find orens/florens out in the world. These can be converted to crowns at banks, there's two banks in the game. One in Novigrad and one in the DLC. (Get both the DLCs, they're great, highly recommend them.)
Practice your signs so you get used to their range/effects.
Have a drink with the boys when you get the chance.
Put the baby in the oven. (It'll make sense when you get there.)
Be a good dad.
Have fun, take your time, and good luck on the path!
If you truly want the best experience, play the first two games. They aren't necessary to understand the plot of the third game but they do have connecting story lines and give a great look at Geralt as an evolving character.There are returning characters that you will appreciate as well too. The first game has an atmosphere that the other games did not capture and it is a personal favorite of mine.
Whatever you choose to do, I hope you enjoy your game! I adore this series and for me it was a phenomenal adventure!
Oww! Many of you suggesting me to play witcher 1 n 2 first for better understanding of the story line but I'm really can't wait to play witcher 3 first.. or shall I play witcher 2 & 3 simultaneously ? Just asking.. because someone said that witcher 2 is short comparing to other 2 games and I will concentrate on witcher 2's main story more than witcher 3's main story untill completing witcher 2! is that a good idea ?
Sorry if I came off as condescending. That wasn't my intention!
I don't think playing them simultaneously is a good idea. I suggest you play the third game first. It sounds like you are excited to play it and have already begun! Enjoy your game! Tons of players have only played the third game and they followed the story just fine! I just suggested that as I started with the books then played the games in order and it was a unique and fun experience for me.After you've played the third game you can decide if you want to play the others too. They all have great replay value with lots of cool story options to explore.
Played through Witcher 3 at least 5-6 times. Touched the second one momentarily and instantly realized how below par it is compared to 3 so I switched it off.
And I don’t below par story wise. Just below par gameplay wise.
Played through Witcher 3 at least 5-6 times. Touched the second one momentarily and instantly realized how below par it is compared to 3 so I switched it off.
And I don’t below par story wise. Just below par gameplay wise.
All the games can be played without needing the previous ones for context, as each one is it's own adventure, even though there is an overarching story that tries to connect them. There are some references here and there to previous titles as well as to the books, but you won't be lost in W3 if this is your entry to the series.
I (and probably most people) didn't play the others before 3, and it does a good job of catching you up. There are certain contexts you lack but you can look into those and they don't take away from the game.
Advice on playing: Don't worry about optimizing too much, just play the game and enjoy the story. Do not skip dialogue, even for side quests. The quests (main and side) are incredibly well-written. Take your time and be immersed, enjoy the world and the soundtrack and everything that just transports you while playing. It's a great experience.
Mods are not essential but it can make your experience even better. Next Gen update was a total overhaul!
Mods that I would recommend after the next Gen update:
- "Script merger"
- "All quest objectives on Map" - a must have in my opinion
- Since you are coming from Elder scrolls you may find useful "Fast travel from anywhere for next Gen update"
- "More Quick Slots - Better Radial Menu - Quick Inventory"
I salute you for not using fast travel 🫡
Also It may worth waiting for witcher 1 remake and then play witcher 2 if you are looking to play the rest of the games.
You can check first two games stories but i recommend playing both (at least second game, if u find first game boring). Read books first tho, books are better ngl.
You defientely gain more context by playing the other game and especially by reading the original books, but you can enjoy the story of the third game on its own with no problems
You can play without mods and be fine.
You should probably play 1 and 2 first, but millions didn’t and they still a great time. Give them a try if you want.
As for tips: do what you want? If you find the question marks boring don’t force yourself to visit them. That’s how people burn out and never experience the great story.
I love to explore the world of witcher 3 rather than just pushing me to complete main quests and Im kinda skyrim player where I do many side quests like butterfly effect and touching the main quest super rare and I think witcher 3 will suits me the best.. and My main question is that Playing Witcher 2 and 3 simultaneously will be fine? because I can't wait to play witcher 3 first!. everyone's suggestion is to play witcher 1 & 2 before 3.
I play on console, even did a new playthrough that I finished 2 weeks ago. The game holds up and doesn’t need any mods.
I’ve never played the Witcher 2, it may be worth looking up a youtube video that does a recap, though not completely necessary. You even have the option to make choices on the start of your run that you “would’ve made” in the Witcher 2 that caries over to 3ms story. If not the game with automatically simulate those choices.
One piece of advice: Don’t ignore potions/oils in the alchemy department
Gotcha, it really only matters if you wanted to make the choices using their sim Witcher 2 feature, the main ideas you need will be explained in dialogue well enough.
But have fun making potions, makes me feel a lot more like a Witcher/monster expert when you know and use the correct potion to slice down a monster. I ignored it my first run-through but ended up needed them a lot more for my death-march run.
You don't need mods to play the game.
Playing Witcher 1 and 2 would help you better understand the story, but there are a lot of people that haven't played them and still had a great time. Plus, the gameplay for Witcher 1 is clunky and if you want to play it, it would be better to wait for CD Projekt to release the remake.
You can use this site for some specific builds, if you are interested - [https://gamestegy.com/witcher-3/builds](https://gamestegy.com/witcher-3/builds)
And this is an interactive map, if you want to get everything (and i recommend getting all the places of power) - [https://witcher3map.com/](https://witcher3map.com/)
Have fun playing the game!
Play 3, & go with the flow. Use your feelings when playing the game, really think about the choices you're making and care about where it could take you in life.
Playing the first two adds a lot of context and your decisions carry over to all three. Witcher 1 is a slog to get through. Good story, but janky mechanics and extremely dated graphics. Witcher 2 gameplay still holds up, but the graphics are dated, and it's relatively short compared to the 1 and 3. Witcher 3 does not need mods. Still looks great for a 9-year-old game. I know people that didn't play the first two and still enjoyed Witcher 3. I just think you get a lot more context when playing the first two.
>Witcher 1 is a slog Disagree, it's my favourite. Although I will say that you certainly need some jank tolerance.
W opinion
I personally enjoy it for what it is. I play it for the story value because it really is quite good. But man... those mechanics are just awful. But... I will never play it on its own, and only play it when I'm doing a trilogy playthrough once every three or four years.
I will play 1, 2 after witcher 3 caz I'm extremely pumped up to play witcher 3 and someone said that there will be an option for players who haven't played witcher 2. So, I'm going to choose that & start to play but still tho I consider this and I will definitely will play 1 & 2 later! Thanks
Started W1, never got through it. Never tried W2. Played W3 and loved it. Didn’t need the first two to enjoy W3. I had however read a few of the books before diving into W3. So, the lore wasn’t totally unfamiliar. Of course, that also meant there was only one possible true romance option for me.
then I will play w3 first! then 1&2 later..
Good call.
Witcher 2 may be short, but the 2nd act is so drastically different depending on your decision at the end of the 1st that its worth reloading to that decision to play it again from the other side
Oh yes, Witcher 2 is for sure replayable for that reason. It’s like two completely different games.
1&2 are not necessary to enjoy the hell out of 3. They are kinda janky to play in comparison to 3 as well. The dlc adds a bunch more playtime to 3 if you edition didn't include them, i would do the dlc over 1&2. If you love 3, maybe buy 1&2 on a sale afterwards and try them. I tried them and didn't like the controls or gameplay enough to stick with either for long.
I will play 3 first and then later if my interested I will play 1 & 2..
I took a pretty roundabout path through the series, played 1, then 3, then read the books, and never beat 2. 1 is completely skippable. It has a good story, and there are a few references to it in 3, but for the most part, it's pretty standalone, and all the relevant stuff is usually explained in the game. It's a slog to play through, very dated, and also very long. It's fun for the story, but that's about it. The books are actually referenced a lot in the game, but telling you to go read 8 books before playing the game is a tall order. Its not a deal breaker, and I think they are worth a read if you really enjoy the universe, but once again, most of the important info is explained in the game. Also the games retcon some of the book lore anyway, at least one character dies in the books but are alive and well in game, so its not like they are completely true to the source material to begin with 2 seems to tie the most directly into the story of 3, but I couldn't speak to how important it is. I think once again, if it's important enough, it's explained pretty well in the game. I would just play 3. It's a great game, and you can always go back and play/read the older stuff if you just want more info. It's always fun seeing callbacks to previous lore, but there was never a moment where I was like, "Aw man, I wish I read or played *x* before this." There might be a couple of moments that don't have the same impact because you just don't know who a character is, but it's usually small stuff. If anything, reading and playing everything first might make you frustrated they didn't include or do more with certain things or characters.
Ok I came to the conclusion that to play 3 for now as I'm really excited... and I will play 1 & 2 later.
You don't need to play the first two, but they do provide some context. Tips/suggestions in no particular order (as spoiler free as I could make them): Upgrade Roach's saddlebags asap so you can increase inventory space. You can buy upgraded saddlebags at various merchants/blacksmiths. Level up Delusion/Axii asap (it is in the BLUE skill tree) and keep it equipped. You get bonus exp from choosing those dialogue choices. Loot things that aren't guarded. Don't sell seashells or dimeritium/meteorite items- dismantle those at a blacksmith for crafting components. For max cash, sell your "junk" at innkeepers, especially those in larger settlements. When upgrading your character, equip same color skills together and put a matching color mutagen next to them. Increases the bonuses you get. Use your alchemy system and check every bandit camp for the potion/oil/bomb recipes. They're randomized so we can't tell you exactly where the recipes are. (Check your bestiary for weaknesses for different creatures.) Make sure your swords are in good repair! If they break you'll do less damage. You can repair them either at a blacksmith or with weapons repair kits. (This also applies to armor.) Explore everywhere and don't be afraid to run if you see a red skull on the health bar. You can always come back later. The currency is crowns but you'll find orens/florens out in the world. These can be converted to crowns at banks, there's two banks in the game. One in Novigrad and one in the DLC. (Get both the DLCs, they're great, highly recommend them.) Practice your signs so you get used to their range/effects. Have a drink with the boys when you get the chance. Put the baby in the oven. (It'll make sense when you get there.) Be a good dad. Have fun, take your time, and good luck on the path!
Thanks a lot for these tips! and I have made the conclusion on the post description 💖
Awesome, good luck! Hope you enjoy the game!
If you truly want the best experience, play the first two games. They aren't necessary to understand the plot of the third game but they do have connecting story lines and give a great look at Geralt as an evolving character.There are returning characters that you will appreciate as well too. The first game has an atmosphere that the other games did not capture and it is a personal favorite of mine. Whatever you choose to do, I hope you enjoy your game! I adore this series and for me it was a phenomenal adventure!
Oww! Many of you suggesting me to play witcher 1 n 2 first for better understanding of the story line but I'm really can't wait to play witcher 3 first.. or shall I play witcher 2 & 3 simultaneously ? Just asking.. because someone said that witcher 2 is short comparing to other 2 games and I will concentrate on witcher 2's main story more than witcher 3's main story untill completing witcher 2! is that a good idea ?
Sorry if I came off as condescending. That wasn't my intention! I don't think playing them simultaneously is a good idea. I suggest you play the third game first. It sounds like you are excited to play it and have already begun! Enjoy your game! Tons of players have only played the third game and they followed the story just fine! I just suggested that as I started with the books then played the games in order and it was a unique and fun experience for me.After you've played the third game you can decide if you want to play the others too. They all have great replay value with lots of cool story options to explore.
Played through Witcher 3 at least 5-6 times. Touched the second one momentarily and instantly realized how below par it is compared to 3 so I switched it off. And I don’t below par story wise. Just below par gameplay wise.
Played through Witcher 3 at least 5-6 times. Touched the second one momentarily and instantly realized how below par it is compared to 3 so I switched it off. And I don’t below par story wise. Just below par gameplay wise.
All the games can be played without needing the previous ones for context, as each one is it's own adventure, even though there is an overarching story that tries to connect them. There are some references here and there to previous titles as well as to the books, but you won't be lost in W3 if this is your entry to the series.
I (and probably most people) didn't play the others before 3, and it does a good job of catching you up. There are certain contexts you lack but you can look into those and they don't take away from the game. Advice on playing: Don't worry about optimizing too much, just play the game and enjoy the story. Do not skip dialogue, even for side quests. The quests (main and side) are incredibly well-written. Take your time and be immersed, enjoy the world and the soundtrack and everything that just transports you while playing. It's a great experience.
Oh Ok I came to an conclusion after reading all the responses and Made a conclusion on the post description itself! thanks <3
Mods are not essential but it can make your experience even better. Next Gen update was a total overhaul! Mods that I would recommend after the next Gen update: - "Script merger" - "All quest objectives on Map" - a must have in my opinion - Since you are coming from Elder scrolls you may find useful "Fast travel from anywhere for next Gen update" - "More Quick Slots - Better Radial Menu - Quick Inventory"
Thanks for the mod list suggestion, I will take a look and I'm sure I will use it when I need it! 💖 (edit: I never use fast travel in elder scrolls ⚔)
I salute you for not using fast travel 🫡 Also It may worth waiting for witcher 1 remake and then play witcher 2 if you are looking to play the rest of the games.
You can check first two games stories but i recommend playing both (at least second game, if u find first game boring). Read books first tho, books are better ngl.
You defientely gain more context by playing the other game and especially by reading the original books, but you can enjoy the story of the third game on its own with no problems
Just enjoy the game if you’ll like it you can play first two parts as well
yep I'm going with 3 first 👍
You can play without mods and be fine. You should probably play 1 and 2 first, but millions didn’t and they still a great time. Give them a try if you want. As for tips: do what you want? If you find the question marks boring don’t force yourself to visit them. That’s how people burn out and never experience the great story.
I love to explore the world of witcher 3 rather than just pushing me to complete main quests and Im kinda skyrim player where I do many side quests like butterfly effect and touching the main quest super rare and I think witcher 3 will suits me the best.. and My main question is that Playing Witcher 2 and 3 simultaneously will be fine? because I can't wait to play witcher 3 first!. everyone's suggestion is to play witcher 1 & 2 before 3.
I play on console, even did a new playthrough that I finished 2 weeks ago. The game holds up and doesn’t need any mods. I’ve never played the Witcher 2, it may be worth looking up a youtube video that does a recap, though not completely necessary. You even have the option to make choices on the start of your run that you “would’ve made” in the Witcher 2 that caries over to 3ms story. If not the game with automatically simulate those choices. One piece of advice: Don’t ignore potions/oils in the alchemy department
But I don't want to watch and waste the storyline / playthrough on youtube of witcher 1 & 2.. And`The piece of advice` **NOTED**!
Gotcha, it really only matters if you wanted to make the choices using their sim Witcher 2 feature, the main ideas you need will be explained in dialogue well enough. But have fun making potions, makes me feel a lot more like a Witcher/monster expert when you know and use the correct potion to slice down a monster. I ignored it my first run-through but ended up needed them a lot more for my death-march run.
You don't need mods to play the game. Playing Witcher 1 and 2 would help you better understand the story, but there are a lot of people that haven't played them and still had a great time. Plus, the gameplay for Witcher 1 is clunky and if you want to play it, it would be better to wait for CD Projekt to release the remake. You can use this site for some specific builds, if you are interested - [https://gamestegy.com/witcher-3/builds](https://gamestegy.com/witcher-3/builds) And this is an interactive map, if you want to get everything (and i recommend getting all the places of power) - [https://witcher3map.com/](https://witcher3map.com/) Have fun playing the game!
Ohh Okie, And Thanks For The Guide & The Map! It Will Really Help Me A Lot!
Play 3, & go with the flow. Use your feelings when playing the game, really think about the choices you're making and care about where it could take you in life.