The Witcher 2

[Ark]

Anyone looking forward to this game as much as me? Loved the first one, probably the bet RPG experience I've had.

Assassin of Kings is really shaping up to be quite a looker. CD Projekt released some early footage at gamescon.

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/gc-10-the-witcher/703360

Don't forget to watch the other 6 videos that follow on.

[HonkyPunch]

Really wanted to play the first one, but never have.
Maybe should pick it up, this one looks pretty ace.

[Target_Renegade]

Enjoyed the first one, still need to finish it though. Mainly got into it because of a mod I was working on, the tools for the first one were clumsy. If they can get the new tools out to the community, then expect some good mods. Thats whats so great about PC gaming, mods and expanding existing IPs.

[bbob]

This is looking seriously wicked. I love how it seems like it has a ton of replay value..

[Martin Henriksson]

wow when he goes outside the view is breathtaking ;D cant wait for this.

[Calabi]

Yeah cant wait, the original was a gem in a trough of shite.

[Ark]

Yeah i really hope they release mod tools for this, i did play with the originals dijinni editor, but there wasn't much community support or proper documentation.

Now that they got their own engine, there tools will probably be alot better, judging from that chart in the vid, they got editors for everything from terrain to vegatation ala Crysis sandbox editor. The original games environments had to be modeled completely inside Max.

[[HP]]

I'm really thinking about getting the first one, I don't play enough RPG's. (Mainly because their time hoggers :()

[Ark]

You could easily get 75-100hrs if you took your time and did every quest and explored everywhere.

If you pick it up, make sure you get the Enhanced or Directors Cut editions (both available as free patches and separate retail boxes,) they make the game look better and remove alot of bug/crashes that were present in the original.

[Thegodzero]

The first one is good, but they need more locations. Felt very small but long. Really hope the new one has more locations.

[eld]

I was always amazed how both Obsidian and cdproject used the aurora engine, but cdproject came out with a much better looking game, even pre-patch.

for me the witcher will always be the true nwn2.

[[HP]]

Thanks for the recommendations Ark.

[Ark]

I was always amazed how both Obsidian and cdproject used the aurora engine, but cdproject came out with a much better looking game, even pre-patch.

for me the witcher will always be the true nwn2.

I believe CD Projekt rewrote most of the renderer for The Witcher, thats probably why it looks alot better.

;1200629']Thanks for the recommendations Ark.

NP. :)

[eld]

I believe CD Projekt rewrote most of the renderer for The Witcher, thats probably why it looks alot better.


It was more than that, the content, characters(compared to nwn2), UI-art especially, it all was quite good.

[ScudzAlmighty]

eld:

No disrespect to Obsidian, they're better than me, but if two studio's use the same tools and one gets better results, than doesn't that just mean that one studio has better artists/programers? at least when one of the studio's didn't create the engine in question?

I don't know if it's true or not but I read Witcher 1 used the Mass Effect engine, which is really the Unreal engine and I've yet to see a licensee get better results than Epic (though they do have some pretty badass artists/programmers).

What I mean is, we both use photoshop, but you're a better texture artist than I am.

[Ark]

eld:

No disrespect to Obsidian, they're better than me, but if two studio's use the same tools and one gets better results, than doesn't that just mean that one studio has better artists/programers? at least when one of the studio's didn't create the engine in question?

I don't know if it's true or not but I read Witcher 1 used the Mass Effect engine, which is really the Unreal engine and I've yet to see a licensee get better results than Epic (though they do have some pretty badass artists/programmers).

What I mean is, we both use photoshop, but you're a better texture artist than I am.

No, The Witcher doesn't use UE3, it runs on a modified Bioware Aurora engine.
http://witcher.wikia.com/wiki/Aurora_Engine

[Soul_of_Solace]

I absolutely loved the first game. The writing and atmosphere of the whole world in the game is just amazing. I found it so much more compelling than Dragon Age for example. But for this new one, I think I'll need a new computer, it looks too pretty for my 5-year old clunker to do it any justice. :(

[HonkyPunch]

i want to witcher some witches

[eld]

eld:

No disrespect to Obsidian, they're better than me, but if two studio's use the same tools and one gets better results, than doesn't that just mean that one studio has better artists/programers? at least when one of the studio's didn't create the engine in question?

I don't know if it's true or not but I read Witcher 1 used the Mass Effect engine, which is really the Unreal engine and I've yet to see a licensee get better results than Epic (though they do have some pretty badass artists/programmers).

What I mean is, we both use photoshop, but you're a better texture artist than I am.

There was a big discussion about nwn2 back when it was released.. I said some horrible things.
Point being, shit in shit out.

Which is, again, back to the point, why I am impressed by cdproject, they really popped out of nowhere with the witcher and did some really impressive stuff.

http://img.qj.net/uploads/articles_module2/76802/the_witcher-pcscreenshots15951q4_2006_x10_qjpreviewth.jpg

http://static.computergames.ro/cg/assassin/images2/neverwinternights2/neverwinternights2-211.jpg

[Rurouni Strife]

I'm pretty excited for it. Played the first one, loved it. It had some annoyances with me and it was actually too long for me but other than that it was great. This second one is looking pretty amazing.

[Wahlgren]

Witcher 2 looks badass. And theres boobs.

[piippo]

Boobs and rest of the game looks great.

[Thegodzero]

i hear the game is made of boobs, and is shipped between boobs for protection. It also has boobs in it too!

...boobs!


But really, game looks amazing and looks like it will play great too.

[kaze369]

this game is looking really good. This game just popped into my radar and I'm like wow this looks cool. I'm thinking of downloading the first game from Steam. But I think I'm going to have to finish FFXIII first and get that out of the way.

[acc]

The Witcher was one of the best RPGs since... ever, really. They'd have to try pretty hard to screw this up. So excited.

[Autocon]

watched all the gamecom vids. the envios are looking fantastic. especially compared to the first game, huge leap. but idk isnt it supose to come out later this year and they dont have a combat system nailed down yet?

[piippo]

Next year. I think the environments in The Witcher were good for that engine. I'm most excited for the fact that the load times are non-existent compared to the first game.

Visually, it's very appealing too.

[dtschultz]

http://www.giantbomb.com/the-witcher-2-has-bloody-combat/17-4080/

The Witcher 2 is looking like it could be pretty amazing! Everything I've seen so far on the environment side has been beautiful. I'm definitely going to check this out.

[Barbarian]

Original was good and I'm getting this one! I was overall disappointed with DA II and look forward to W2.

[crazyfingers]

If anyone hasn't played the original, now's the time! On sale for 5 bucks very soon, get ready for the sequel:

http://www.gog.com/en/gamecard/the_witcher?utm_campaign=atari_strategies&utm_content=game_subject&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter

[3DLee]

I just played through the original 4-5 months ago and I loved it. I have the second pre-ordered.

[Ark]

So the game is officially released tomorrow, my collectors edition arrived a day early in somewhat a battered state, with that said anyone else planning on picking this up?

Artbook is sweet although not as content heavy as the original one, still has some great concepts and background.

[r_fletch_r]

downloaded from GOG and waiting for the final few files to be delivered tomorrow.
Really looking forward to it.

(totally agree about DA:2, really hoping W2 isnt a weak-sauce cashin)

[Maph]

My pre-order should ship later today! Love the first one, and this game should rock mah socks off!

[kaze369]

downloaded from GOG and waiting for the final few files to be delivered tomorrow.
Really looking forward to it.

(totally agree about DA:2, really hoping W2 isnt a weak-sauce cashin)
same here. I'm trying to quickly go through the first one right now. Hopefully I'll understand most of the story. I wanted to get LA Noire at the same time but I just couldn't afford it. :( I've also got some Mass Effect 2 DLC to get through.:thumbup:

[crazyfingers]

These guys would be fools not to make a custom commercial for an episode of game of thrones. The game would sell like hotcakes among their audience.

[3DLee]

I have this pre-ordered via gog.com and I can't wait! I just played through the original back in March and it was fantastic.

[kaze369]

SOn of a bitch! my game just crashed and now I can't load my saved game. anyone have a saved game I could use? If not I guess I could read what happened in the first game.

[3DLee]

I think I have all of my save games at home still. What part did you get to?

Also: Multiple saves are your friend!

[kaze369]

I think I have all of my save games at home still. What part did you get to?

Also: Multiple saves are your friend!
I was in chapter 2 and I just completed a quest given to me by this old lady I think named veska. I was playing the game on easy because I wasn't sure about the gameplay.

edit: I'll make sure to have multiple save for the witcher 2.

[Snefer]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBN1y0hWV7E

Fucking awesome trailer.

[Mcg.]

Can't wait! I believe it can import save data from the first like Mass Effect?

[Martin Henriksson]

Hedningarna <3

[Nemlet17]

Nooooooooo! I want to get this but I already payed off L.A. Noire :( Damn my vacation fund....this game will have to wait.

[3DLee]

I was in chapter 2 and I just completed a quest given to me by this old lady I think named veska. I was playing the game on easy because I wasn't sure about the gameplay.

edit: I'll make sure to have multiple save for the witcher 2.

Hey kaze, I grabbed a bunch of my save games and zipped them up for you. As far as I can tell, they're from around where you were in the game:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6675789/saves.7z

(the link should be active soon, I'm still uploading them)

[kaze369]

Hey kaze, I grabbed a bunch of my save games and zipped them up for you. As far as I can tell, they're from around where you were in the game:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6675789/saves.7z

(the link should be active soon, I'm still uploading them)
Thanks a bunch man!:thumbup::) That'll teach me not to have multiple saves.
Ironically, I'm pretty anal about multiple saves for my PC games but for some reason I didn't do it for the Witcher.

edit: you've actually helped me get a little further in the story, Thanks:thumbup:
I read the wikipedia entry for the game so I know what going to happens but I still want to try and a saved game for the transfer to the Witcher 2.

[Ark]

Just got to Chapter 1, this game has some beautiful art in it and the environments look amazing.

Not too sure about the combat yet, i was a fan of the old style of timing clicks.

[hobodactyl]

Does anyone know if it's getting an editor? I thought I read that they're going to release it later.

[3DLee]

I loaded it up this morning before work to make sure the download finish correctly... just stunning!

Bit-Tech just gave it a 95: http://www.bit-tech.net/gaming/pc/2011/05/17/the-witcher-2-review/2

[r_fletch_r]

Stunning looking game!! I'm not sure about the gameplay yet, Its been frustrating so far, there are ingame control tips but they pop up during combat and you can easily miss them totally. They seem to have totally neglected to make sure you know how to play the game before throwing you into the thick of it.

Read the manual before playing.

[Martin Henriksson]

Only played for an hour or so but its really epic so far imo. Might be the best looking game i have ever played. Its hard as hell atleast before you get a grip of how everything works.

[crazyfingers]

So painful hearing how awesome this game is and being too busy to play it! Imma hit this hard next week.

[ErichWK]

This game rocks. It really is setting a bar for Western RPGs graphically.

[kaze369]

I agree with r_fletch_r, read the manual. There aren't any on screen buttons for you inventory or journal so you'll have to get used to not looking for them.
Like ever one said, this game is god damn gorgeous!
I have to stop playing and go back to the Witcher 1 so I can import my saved game.

Here's a small gallery with some in-game screenshots: [click here] (http://www.dropbox.com/gallery/1495121/1/The%20Witcher%202%20Screenshots?h=732637)
I can tell this game is going to be fun:)
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/1495121/The%20Witcher%202%20Screenshots/witcher2_2011_05_17_06_15_09_468.jpg

[3devo]

installing now...
so excited loved the first game even with all its flaws.
oh and kaze choose carefully muwahaha.
off to fight monsters and such.

[Autocon]

Is it not coming out for the PS3/360?

[kaze369]

Is it not coming out for the PS3/360?
No, but the project director did say they looked into it.
I guess it's up to Atari & Bandi Namco to figure out if they want to bring it to the consoles. I doubt it though because of GOG DRM-free version. But you never know, if the game sells a lot maybe that will be the trigger for the big corporate guys. The game has gotten some good hype in the press.
Seems like this game might be a good candidate for using a gamepad.

[3DLee]

I played for probably 3 hours tonight. The game if difficult but rewarding, and it may be the most beautiful game I've ever played. I'm so glad I pre-ordered! I've downloaded something like 2GB of extras from GOG so far.

http://i.imgur.com/lHHXI.jpg

[ErichWK]

If you preordered it from steam..how do you get all that premium edition goodness? Oh yea..the end of the "tutorial mission". Fucking Awesome.

[kaze369]

Ok, stupid me didn't read the entire manual to the end. You can actually use a 360 controller instead of the keyboard. it didn't say anything about a PS3 controller, sorry PS3 fans.

edit: I would just like to remind people how quickly each area loads.:thumbup:

[Maph]

OMFG Amazon, where's mah Witcher?!
I need my RPG fix!

[ErichWK]

Ok, stupid me didn't read the entire manual to the end. You can actually use a 360 controller instead of the keyboard. it didn't say anything about a PS3 controller, sorry PS3 fans.

edit: I would just like to remind people how quickly each area loads.:thumbup:

Theres a program called DS3 tool that I use to play Super Meat Boy. It can turn a PS3 controller to a 360 controller..which is a good thing cause I'm just too damn comfortable with the PS controller.

[Ark]

Anyone else feel the start of the game is a little to difficult? I've had my ass handed to me soo many times it's frustrating. Also because you can't zoom out a bit more, you can easily get surrounded, then your dead in a flash.

[Calabi]

Mine came in the mail today WOot!.

Its neat stuff you get maps a coin and papercraft men.

Its must be big because you get 2 DVD discs.

[Martin Henriksson]

Anyone else feel the start of the game is a little to difficult? I've had my ass handed to me soo many times it's frustrating. Also because you can't zoom out a bit more, you can easily get surrounded, then your dead in a flash.

It was a very rough start but it does serve to give you a bigger sense of accomplishment once you learn how everything works.

[r_fletch_r]

Anyone else feel the start of the game is a little to difficult? I've had my ass handed to me soo many times it's frustrating. Also because you can't zoom out a bit more, you can easily get surrounded, then your dead in a flash.

Totally. It's been ages since I played a game that was so hostile to new players. I played the Original a few years ago and don't remember ever getting so frustrated/angry with it. Sure I got my ass handed to me allot but it was usually because I got out of my depth, not because I missed a tiny tip that popped up for 3 seconds while I was busy getting killed.

A few areas at the start where you got to train in combat (say 'teaching' the soldiers in the kings camp) and were briefed in the usage of the signs would have made the start fun, rather than a exercise in frustration.

Anyway rant over. Things are definitely getting more fun.

[Martin Henriksson]

Man im sooo impressed by the game! One of the standouts is the characters so far, lots and lots of super well made/designed characters/clothes :d

[kaze369]

is it just me or does the bloom effect in this game seem odd?

[Autocon]

thats a shame, game looks fun and is really nice to look at to boot. would love to play it but i doubt my PC will be able to handle it without being on the most ugly of settings. another reason why PC gaming is stupid. plus who wants to sit at a computer all day playing video games when you spend all day on it making art? I would love to lounge back on my couch and play this on a big tv :)


hopefully they will make a port for this

[kaze369]

thats a shame, game looks fun and is really nice to look at to boot. would love to play it but i doubt my PC will be able to handle it without being on the most ugly of settings. another reason why PC gaming is stupid. plus who wants to sit at a computer all day playing video games when you spend all day on it making art? I would love to lounge back on my couch and play this on a big tv :)


hopefully they will make a port for this
hey, just because you had a few bad experiences don't mean it's stupid. Like I said before The Witcher 2 does support the 360 controller and if you have a PS3 controller, like ErichWK said, you can use the DS3 program for both the 360 and the PS3. So there's you're sit back and relax option.
And since when could game artists afford big screen TVs:) and how big is it? Staring at a screen is staring at a screen right?

[Autocon]

I mean its stupid in the sense that my PC is higher end then a PS3 or Xbox and yet the game would look better on a PS3/Xbox then it would on my PC. That is what is great about consoles. I know exactly what I am getting and dont have to worry about it looking not as good as it should because my computer isnt tuned specifically to max out my video game settings.

Also relaxing has nothing to do with just using a PS3/Xbox control at your computer because you are still sitting at your computer instead of on a nice couch :)

And since when could game artists afford big screen TVs:)

After graduating college and getting a job its easy to buy things when you start getting a pay check and arnt throwing money away on insane tuition :) Starting at a screen a few feet away from your face is less strain on your eyes then one a few inches.

[ErichWK]

But Anthony! Precisiiiooooon. The Mouse + Keyboard combo is great for first person shooters. But I do agree its nice to sit on a couch sometimes.

I will say if you are into modding communities.. then it's definitely all about PC. For instance, look at the modding community for all of Bethesda's games. They turned great games and made them even greater and more beautiful and gave us free content that sometimes is better than the DLC the devs make us pay for.

[r_fletch_r]

anyone else having problems fighting letho in the elven baths?
I'm using yrden to stun him but I can't land any hits regardless of his being stunned he blocks everything. His Quen is down but it makes no difference.


Autocon, so stick your mouse and keyboard on a bit of board and plug the pc into the tv. the witcher scales pretty nicely so it's atleast worth trying the demo(when and if one arrives)

[Autocon]

But Anthony! Precisiiiooooon. The Mouse + Keyboard combo is great for first person shooters.

Funny I think the exact opposite. I like shooters better on console, everyone is on an even and balanced playing field. No one has these super mice and can get away with super twitch killing you the second you spawn with head shots miles away. But thats me :)


Is there a demo for the game? I didnt notice one being mentioned, and it would be nice to see how well the game would run on my comp. And that hooking up your comp to a TV is a good idea, thought about it before but not sure if my graphics card supports it.

[Artifice]

Been playing since it came out. It's quite possibly the best looking game I've played. The texturing, especially on the clothing and the environmental details are stunning. Both the story and the controls are a bit opaque at the beginning, but by the time you're out of the prologue, everything should be clear. The storyline has quite a bit of depth, the writing is solid for the most part and the voice acting is great. I've spent a lot of time looking at art on Polycount and wondering why games don't look that good...Witcher 2 does.

To the people wondering about performance: I'm running a Q6600@2.4, ATI 4850, 8GB RAM and it's smooth as butter on high settings. A half second of loading lag at transitions, but gameplay in general is fine.

[HonkyPunch]

couldn't run the first one on anything but about medium, looked odd..
So unfortunately i won't get this one yet.

[3DLee]

Was playing the prologue and realized that I pulled a Scumbag Steve ( http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/scumbag-steve ).

So, I made this:

http://i.imgur.com/zbkrw.jpg

[jakelear]

So I bought The Witcher 2 on Steam (After seeing the mega-retail collectors edition, I'll probably pick that up in due time) but I went with Steam for the convenience and for the Cloud Save.

http://buy.thewitcher.com/preorder-digital_premium-en says that steam will offer cloud save, however it doesn't seem to be working for me. (I don't get the cloud options, it doesnt ask me to download cloud files, etc)

Anyone got the steam version and had any luck with cloud save?

[Calabi]

Cloud save works automatically, there are no options, if you see a cloud icon thing in the game library that means its working.

I have to say this game is bloody hard. And I still cant understand how the inventory works.

[jakelear]

Calabi, yeah that's my experience with other games but I can't load my Witcher 2 save games from another computer. When I go to "load game" none of my saves appear.

[Nostradamus]

fletch, you have to dodge roll around him to hit him even when using the stun spell afaik.

[r_fletch_r]

cheers ;) i got him in the end.



Just heard the best quote from a dwalve. 'thats my favourite type of magic, 'lesbomancy''

[kaze369]

I hate to say it but I wuessed out and put the game on easy. I'd rather enjoy the story anyway.

[3devo]

yeah i got owned in the castle when tryin to get the ballista(first solo battle angainst multiple enemies) wussed out to easy still gettin owned in some really hard fights(5+ enemies generally)

[Martin Henriksson]

That first fight was probably the hardest so far for me. It took a while to figure everything out but now it feels alot easier.

[ErichWK]

Man..I don't wanna finish Chapter 1 because I want to get the free DLC..but it seems it isn't really working for most people which is kind of a bummer.

[3DLee]

I'm playing on Normal, but got repeatedly owned in the first fight in the castle. I think it was around the 4th attempt that I realized I kept drawing my silver sword instead of my steel sword. Doh.

[3DLee]

I recorded some 1920x1080 footage on Ultra High settings last night and I put together a 13-minutes showcase video. For those of you who haven't played it yet (or who are playing it on lower settings), this game looks stunning!

http://youtu.be/L0ep2yz9luE?hd=1

[ZacD]

any idea how well an intel core2quad + 9800gt with 1 gig vram will run the game?

[3devo]

oh man this game is so good looking they let env artists go nuts on this and it shows
making my way through the second chapter and just keep going wonder whats around the next corner. bet it looks amazing and you know what so far it has been.

[Calabi]

This thread needs some images.

http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/3732/witcher2201105202231019.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/32/witcher2201105202231019.jpg/)

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/4153/witcher2201105202148597g.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/221/witcher2201105202148597g.jpg/)

http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/9915/witcher2201105202136288.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/535/witcher2201105202136288.jpg/)

http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/1055/witcher2201105202021228.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/18/witcher2201105202021228.jpg/)

[r_fletch_r]

oh man this game is so good looking they let env artists go nuts on this and it shows
making my way through the second chapter and just keep going wonder whats around the next corner. bet it looks amazing and you know what so far it has been.

its stunning how much is actualy geometry detail.

I have noticed though that sometimes they use 'imposters' on cut scenes. there are a few cases where you see suits of armor which are just alpha cut outs.

I really hope a toolkit becomes available so we can dissect how things were done.

[firestarter]

@ZacD I'm running on a laptop Core2 Quad @2ghz 4g ram and an Nvidia GT 130M, auto detect settings, it's alright.

Hmm, in the midst of Chapter 1, not quite as enjoyable as the original thus far.

[Ark]

its stunning how much is actualy geometry detail.

I have noticed though that sometimes they use 'imposters' on cut scenes. there are a few cases where you see suits of armor which are just alpha cut outs.

I really hope a toolkit becomes available so we can dissect how things were done.

I've noticed they do spend a lot of the polies on getting good strong silhouettes, letting the normals handle the recessed details.

They stated that they were looking to release the sdk in some interview i read, so hopefully one will be released.

I've just reached Chapter 3 and the game is a lot easier than the opening chapters, maybe it's because i've got the Swordsmanship tree nearly completed or better armor, i don't know.

Looking forward to the final showdown! :)

[shotgun]

Hmm, in the midst of Chapter 1, not quite as enjoyable as the original thus far.

That's a shame

[Martin Henriksson]

Indeed! I think its much much better then first! :d

[r_fletch_r]

That's a shame

Its actually pretty good, CDP just messed up the starting tutorial.
When you start the game open the journal and read the control tips. Also learn what the signs do and make sure your using your steel sword.

In combat its best to single out enemies and roll away when they counter. attacking groups at low levels is a really bad idea. Use Axii to turn one of them to your side and use Yrrden to pin another, also Quen is great as it absorbs damage. Igni is a bit crap but Aard is really usefull for stunning people.

Once you have the basics down the game goes from being a frustrating POS to a really fun experience.


The bit in the dungeons in Act 3 with the spoon/eye gauging was horrendous :poly122: Its rare a game makes me feel Queasy.

[Ark]

Finished!

Absolute awesome game the whole way through, i didn't think it would live upto the original, but i was wrong.

Got lost in the story in some parts, so i guess it's time for a second playthrough and do much more exploring for loot. :)

In the Epilogue, I kinda felt sorry when i killed Letho at the end, they made the cutscene quite sympathetic, so i loaded another save at let him go! Maybe he'll carry over in the next Witcher?

[r_fletch_r]

Finished!

Absolute awesome game the whole way through, i didn't think it would live upto the original, but i was wrong.

Got lost in the story in some parts, so i guess it's time for a second playthrough and do much more exploring for loot. :)

In the Epilogue, I kinda felt sorry when i killed Letho at the end, they made the cutscene quite sympathetic, so i loaded another save at let him go! Maybe he'll carry over in the next Witcher?

any tips on slaying saskia?, am I doing something wrong or do I just have to slowly wear her down?

[Ark]

r_fletch_r: Yeah she has a lot of health, i just kept using Quen to protect myself from the fire. Hitting her from far away using swift strikes to close the gap, one heavy strike, then roll away and repeat. Dodging is hard because Saskia covers most of the screen, but Quen does help in reducing the damage. Depending on where you put your skills, i mainly went Swordsmanship, so none of the signs were that great to me.

[r_fletch_r]

r_fletch_r: Yeah she has a lot of health, i just kept using Quen to protect myself from the fire. Hitting her from far away using swift strikes to close the gap, one heavy strike, then roll away and repeat. Dodging is hard because Saskia covers most of the screen, but Quen does help in reducing the damage. Depending on where you put your skills, i mainly went Swordsmanship, so none of the signs were that great to me.

thanks man, ill keep at it. I focused on swordwork as well.

[synergy11]

Best all-around game I have played in a long time.

The rocks and rock textures are just amazing. : )

The draw distances are huge at some parts. So immersive.

[Frump]

I've been too busy playing to comment, but man, I love this game. I've been playing it tons over the past week and loving every second. My friends and I have been gushing about it every day at work after progressing. Easily the best RPG since Mass Effect 2 and I think I like it a bit more, even. Definitely best game of 2011 so far tied with Portal 2.

It has kind of ruined games for me because it looks so much better than all of the others. Jumping into LA Noire, the comparison between the two really takes away from that game.

Just got to act 3, back to Witchin. :)

[acc]

I'm noticing some major stuff in spoiler tags on the last page that definitely never happened in my playthrough. Nice to know there's real replay value; gonna have to crank up the difficulty and play it again some time.

[c0ldhands]

Im I the only one that thinks that the camera and the controlls really break a good game like this? And whats up with Gerralt trying to be soo cool with his low voice, cant hear shit he is saying.

[3devo]

just finished the game. felt kinda short,but with every choice affecting the story i guess its to be expected. gonna have to play it 2 or more times to get the whole story though.
probably will too :)

[wasker]

Wasn't there some rumours about the game shipping with the editor included? Whatever happened to that? Would love to have a go with their editor.

[Carl Brannstrom]

Only I who have major input problems during battles?

I press block/parry repeately but he only does it like 1/10 times. ´The same with casting a spell or item, it's just random.

It's really frustrating and make the game barely playable :(

[Pseudo]

I haven't played the first witcher game so I'm unfamiliar with the series.

How does the Witcher 2 stack up to Dragon Age 2?

[kaze369]

I haven't played the first witcher game so I'm unfamiliar with the series.

How does the Witcher 2 stack up to Dragon Age 2?
better +5

[Calabi]

Only I who have major input problems during battles?

I press block/parry repeately but he only does it like 1/10 times. ´The same with casting a spell or item, it's just random.

It's really frustrating and make the game barely playable :(

Read the manual, its connected with that bar in the left corner, vigor, you cant block unless you have enough of it. Its not very clear though. Use dodge most as much as you can instead, and quen always use quen.

[kaze369]

maybe I'm just really bad at this game but sometimes I feel like my ass is getting kicked even on easy.

[Carl Brannstrom]

Read the manual, its connected with that bar in the left corner, vigor, you cant block unless you have enough of it. Its not very clear though. Use dodge most as much as you can instead, and quen always use quen.

Thanks, that explains alot! It's funny though, it doesn't mention vigor at all in the journal -_-

[r_fletch_r]

maybe I'm just really bad at this game but sometimes I feel like my ass is getting kicked even on easy.
Alchemy helps alot. Swallow and Rook make you much more formidable.


I haven't played the first witcher game so I'm unfamiliar with the series.

How does the Witcher 2 stack up to Dragon Age 2?

Better ^5. Much more coherent story, better graphics, gameplay wise Id say both have ups and downs.

[Calabi]

Thanks, that explains alot! It's funny though, it doesn't mention vigor at all in the journal -_-

Yeah the beginning is not good at all no help or tutorial. You cant block if you use too much magic, just why they connected those I dont know. Be prepared the combat is difficult.

[r_fletch_r]

Patch 1.1 is out. DRM is removed, better performance, quicker loading(!!!) and bug fixes.

Nice :)

finished it, let letho go, saved Saskia. Going to go back and play on a harder setting.

[Serp]

The storyline is so good. The characters are the richest I've seen. I feel the story is up there with the metal gear solid series. The cutscenes are awesome. The first section is like a movie. So good.

[Pix]

I've been too busy playing to comment, but man, I love this game. I've been playing it tons over the past week and loving every second. My friends and I have been gushing about it every day at work after progressing. Easily the best RPG since Mass Effect 2 and I think I like it a bit more, even. Definitely best game of 2011 so far tied with Portal 2.

It has kind of ruined games for me because it looks so much better than all of the others. Jumping into LA Noire, the comparison between the two really takes away from that game.

Just got to act 3, back to Witchin. :)

Can't call Mass Effect 2 an RPG, it was so stripped down you can simply call it an Action Game. The Witcher 2 might be the best RPG since Planescape Torment simple as that.

[Tyler]

Awesome game. Very hard though, at least until you remember to block every incoming attack and spend every skill point on hit point increasing stuff xD

Graphics in this are just superb. That opening scene of the battleground with the mountains in the distance, and then noticing that the hilt of the sword had as much detail as anything else, its just amazing :D

[kaze369]

Not that I'm complaining, but I wish the game was a bit longer. So many things were left on the table at the end.

I just couldn't let the super model sorceress die, especially the S&M one. Maybe some white wolf lovin is all they needed.:)

my witcher sense is tingling....Wither 3?

[Traix]

I felt the game was a bit too short but the combat was huge step up from what I remember playing witcher (1). Saskia was way too easy with magic specialization, quen -> 3x igni wait until have full vigor -> repeat
The most useful sign imho was Yrden tied with Igni didn't really use any of the others until Saskia and only had to use quen because yrden didn't work on Saskia D:

[ZacD]

damn the in game cut scenes are nicely done and really well lit

[glottis8]

should i get the 1st one before playing the second one?

[r_fletch_r]

should i get the 1st one before playing the second one?

It will give some extra background but its by no means essential.

[Ark]

First game is just as good imho, apart from a few niggles. Some complain about the timed-click combat in the first game, but i actually like it.

[3DLee]

The first game is well worth a play through, but it has a very slow start.

[glottis8]

is it as slow as Dragon Age. I have dragon age and origins and i want to like... but it just doesn't keep me interested.

[Ark]

Basically the story doesn't start to manifest until Chapter 2. Then you get your Silver Sword and things become more interesting combat wise when you have to start switching swords and sword styles. Both games beat Dragon Age into the ground imo.

[roosterMAP]

just finished it. chap 3 and epilogue SUCKED!!! they clearly ran out of time and money.

[achmedthesnake]

roosterMAP - I agree it just kinda....fizzes out after the end of the previous chapter.

[ErichWK]

Love the game overall, but I got to agree with Roos and Achmed. The beginning was epic and insane and so immersive. But that very end just seemed kind of phoned in.

[Ace-Angel]

Witcher 1 reminded me alot of Dark Void...

[r_fletch_r]

Basically the story doesn't start to manifest until Chapter 2. Then you get your Silver Sword and things become more interesting combat wise when you have to start switching swords and sword styles. Both games beat Dragon Age into the ground imo.

I hate to agree but I do. DA2 was a complete let down. Made worse by the fact that within it were so many glimmers of a great game. TW2 is still deeply flawed though. The end was really weak, especially the boss battle which was just and exercise in patience.

[glottis8]

I dunno.. i've been reading more about the Witcher 2. Dragon Age is just hard to get into... so i guess i'll give the w1 and w2 a go. Right now i am enjoying Metro 2033. Pretty cool game.

[kaze369]

President Obama receives a copy of the Witcher 2 while visiting Poland.
http://www.newgamenetwork.com/news/2770/usa-president-barack-obama-receives-witcher-2/

[eld]

President Obama receives a copy of the Witcher 2 while visiting Poland.
http://www.newgamenetwork.com/news/2770/usa-president-barack-obama-receives-witcher-2/

Wow, that's the second time! ;)

[kaze369]

Wow, that's the second time! ;)
really? who else posted this article?

[claydough]

3d vision surround is really epic ( the detail in the models really shine and the attention is obvious )
Sort of reminds alot me of gothic figurines when overclocking the convergence for a macro environment.

http://art.thewalters.org/images/art/pl7_6157_fnt_bw.jpg
14th century? altarpiece at the grand Walters art Gallery

Steam sale end for both witcher and Witcher 2 in less than 4 hours.

$2.49 for witcher and $23 for witcher 2.

[Ark]

Thought id post this awesome trailer they just released from the equally awesome Platige Image:

http://www.eurogamer.net/videos/gorgeous-cinematic-intro-to-the-witcher-2-on-xbox-360

May even buy this again for 360 when it arrives!

Also there releasing an Enhanced Edition for the second game, just like they did with the first. More adventures, more characters and cutscenes are all for free! CD Projekt RED are really showing how it should be done instead of charging for every little thing.

[eld]

The crazy part is that they already released a giant patch for witcher 2, and now they're giving people more?!, madness!

go CD projekt!

[3DLee]

That trailer was the best thing I've seen all month. So awesome!

[wasker]

Saw some new screens on kotaku today and thought I should post them here incase someone missed them. I really like the art direction for this game and I hope they sell well enough on consoles to continue pushing polys wtih more games in the future.

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpu3s4u6g1jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpufme3af5jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpu5r8x559jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpubo6odt9jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpu3rysu54jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpubo7idi8jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpuboamci1jpg/original.jpg
http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpu9p4uuycjpg/original.jpg

moar pics here
http://kotaku.com/5902935/the-men-women--puffy-shirts-of-the-witcher-2/

[roosterMAP]

I was always amazing by how detailed the character textures look ingame. I really hope that they implement some sort of dx11 hair and quick using planes for witcher 3. :3

[r_fletch_r]

I was always amazing by how detailed the character textures look ingame. I really hope that they implement some sort of dx11 hair and quick using planes for witcher 3. :3

and tone down the SSS. it'll be epic then :)

really looking forward to the extra ending content... 15GB is gonna take a while to download.

[David-J]

Is there a lot of new content on this edition? I played Witcher 2 when it came out and loved it. Just wondering if there is enough to warrant a second play through.

[Tenchi]

More stuff from Marcin Blaszczak (http://marcinb.cghub.com/images/)here including character zSculpts which look incredible ^^

[ErichWK]

The fidelity of the graphics from Witcher 1 to the sequel is INSANE.
http://img.hexus.net/v2/gaming/screenshots_pc/thewitcher/witcher1_large.jpg

[poopinmymouth]

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17jxpu9p4uuycjpg/original.jpg

moar pics here
http://kotaku.com/5902935/the-men-women--puffy-shirts-of-the-witcher-2/

Damn, he could crack walnuts with an ass that tight.

Loved witcher 2, was such a cool game, and loved the character designs. Agreed the ending felt rushed.

[Weirdboy]

I just got the enhanced version for the 360 yesterday. Enjoying it thus far, but it's still early on in the game for me.

[ZacD]

I just watched the review for the enhanced version, looks like I'll play through it again for the pc, I was going to wait for a gpu upgrade, but it looks too good to wait.

[ScudzAlmighty]

Damn, he could crack walnuts with an ass that tight.

Loved witcher 2, was such a cool game, and loved the character designs. Agreed the ending felt rushed.

FYI, The enhanced edition (which is also available as a free upgrade/patch for pc) has an extended ending which should help with that. Though apparently existing saves don't work with the enhanced version so you'd have to re-start the game.

[r_fletch_r]

Was that voice over from dandelion there in the original (at the start of flotsam).

[iniside]

Necro bump.
Didn't feel like new thread is needed.

REDKit is released (or rather will be soon), in mean time:
Patch to game:
http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/files/Patch%203.4.exe

REDKit:
http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/files/TW2EE_REDkit.exe
http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/files/TW2EE_REDkit-1a.bin
http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/files/TW2EE_REDkit-1a.bin
http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/files/TW2EE_REDkit-1c.bin
http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/files/TW2EE_REDkit-1d.bin

Sample mod:
http://static.cdprojektred.com/users/redkit/38/38/files/48_642e92efb79421734881b53e1e1b18b6.zip

DOESN'T work with steam version (it work but it will break it):

instructions:

***
REDkit requires a copy of PC version of The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, installed on your HDD. The game has to be patched up to version 3.3. Make sure you have downloaded SQLite appropriate for your system or download this one. (http://sourceforge.net/projects/sqlite-dotnet2/files/SQLite%20for%20ADO.NET%202.0/1.0.66.0/) Right click on the file and run it as an administrator.

Steam copies of the game will be automatically patched to REDkit (Gamers' Edition). Do not install the REDkit patches downloaded from this website on your Steam copy of the game.

It is recommended that you have the latest version of graphics drivers installed.

If you're using Windows Vista or 7, you should try disabling UAC. To do it follow these instructions. (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Turn-User-Account-Control-on-or-off)

Installing the latest updates for your operating system is always a good idea and can also resolve some of your issues. Same thing goes for shutting down or disabling any non-crucial applications running in the background, especially anti-virus software, as they might interfere with your games. Try it and see if it helps.

PC System Requirements

OS: Windows XP/Vista/7 64-bit
Processor: Quad Core Intel or AMD
RAM: 3 GB Windows XP, 4 GB Windows Vista/7
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce 260 1 GB or HD 4850 1 GB
Hard Drive: 23 GB

Buy The Witcher 2

Download The Witcher 2 patch 3.3

Download latest patch

Don’t feel like creating a mod? If you would like to play others’ creations, please, make sure your Witcher 2 is updated to Patch 3.3. When it's done follow these steps:

1. Download the latest patch 3.4 and install it.

2. Create folder called “UserContent” in your Witcher 2 folder in Documents, e.g. *Documents\Witcher 2\UserContent - this is where you will put the downloaded mods. Make sure you have enough space on the partition with My Documents to store mods there.

3. After the mod is downloaded, unzipped and copied into UserContent folder, run userContentManager.exe which can be found in the Witcher2/bin folder. There make sure you have checked the box next to the mod that you would like to launch.

4. You have two options:
4.1 Save and Run - this will save your mod choices and boot the game.
4.2. Save and Exit - this will save your mod choices and exit the User Content Manager.

5. Once you’ve chosen the mod and run the Witcher 2, go to New Game/User Content and select the mod you’d like to play.

Download REDkit (Gamers' Edition)

Download patch 3.4


Are you a creative type? Let your imagination go wild as you create new Witcher 2 content with REDkit. When it's ready, just upload it!

1. Make sure The Witcher 2 is updated to patch 3.3.

2. Download all five files on the right side. If your browser warns you against downloading the installation files ignore the warnings. The REDkit installation files downloaded from this website are completely safe.

3. Run TW2EE_REDkit.exe and go through the installation. Remember, install it in The Witcher 2 installation folder, as prompted.

4. At the end of installation, leave the box checked and run REDkit with strings and voiceovers export. It needs to be done before the REDkit is first booted and it may take up to 10 minutes.

Mesh Importer (3ds Max 2009 & 2013)

If you plan to create some meshes, we have prepared Mesh Importer that supports 3ds Max 2009 (32bit and 64bit) and 3ds Max 2013 (64bit). With REDkit installed, there are a few files (in your Witcher 2 catalogue) that should be copied into particular folders:

1. Please copy re_exporter.ms to your 3ds Max folder, e.g.

-> ...ds Max VERSION\Scripts\Startup e_exporter.ms

2. Please copy appropriate version of max_re_exporter.dlx to your 3ds Max folder, e.g.

-> ...ds Max VERSION\plugins\max_re_exporter.dlx

In 3ds Max, after you create the mesh, go here. (http://static.cdprojektred.com/redkit/images/re_exporter.jpg)

Installing REDkit (Modders' Edition) downloaded from this website on a Steam copy of the game will break the game's compatibility with Steam (which means no overlay, no Steam cloud, no achievements). It is recommended to either wait for the Steam release of REDkit (Modders' Edition) or to install the free gog.com backup copy of the game and install the REDkit on it: http://www.gog.com/witcher/backup
*** ››› (http://en.thewitcher.com/forum/index.php?app=forums&module=forums&section=findpost&pid=970993&oznacz=1)
From: http://en.thewitcher.com/forum/index.php?/topic/35008-redkit-is-here

[Ark]

Yeah saw this yesterday but the site was down, just like now. :P

Can't wait to try the tools, looks very Cryengine-ish from the the screens i've seen.

Model exporter seems limited, hope there some .fbx exporter on the cards.

[Tekoppar]

It won't release until Monday; http://en.thewitcher.com/forum/index.php?/topic/35008-redkit-is-here/page__st__180__p__971442#entry971442

[iniside]

http://redkit.cdprojektred.com/

Up and running.

[Ark]

Downloading now, eager to try this out.

[Ark]

So after re-installing The Witcher 2, re-downloading the EE at 10gig and a further 6gig for the Redkit, finally got it installed and running.

Quite a nice editor to work with, takes the best bits from UDK like the Material Editor, Asset Browser and Static/Animation editors and combines them with the realtime stuff from Cryengine.

The scripting and dialogue editors look like a wet dream for anyone into making a RPG and Cinematics.