Choose between the next-gen version of Witcher 3 or the expanded modded experience.
Choose between the next-gen version of Witcher 3 or the expanded modded experience.
I missed the opportunity to play The Witcher 3 upon its release, so I saw the new update as a chance to try it out. I was excited about the HDR integration, but after hearing negative feedback, especially regarding performance, some people recommend sticking with the original version. They claim the updated game is similar yet more demanding on the system, and the visual upgrades are just superficial changes you can easily get for the base. The only stated reason to play it seems to be ray tracing, which I don’t enjoy. Additionally, HDR support appears to be lacking. So, which version should I choose? The next-gen or the original? In what ways does one edge out the other? I’d prefer not to overburden my system unless the visual quality truly improves beyond what’s possible without mods. If there are enhancements that can’t be achieved through modifications—or if they’re better without them—I might consider the update, as long as it doesn’t strain my hardware too much. I have a Ryzen 5 3600 with an RX 5700 XT, so my specs are important. Thanks.
hasn't tested it yet, but there are several enhancements beyond ray tracing that can be omitted. It seems to include many community mods worth including if you use the original version. Just dropped means some bugs might still exist, thanks to Projekt Red. The update is free, and the full game is now around $8 on Steam.
The issue is that I’m not eager to wait for the developers to patch the issues. It might take a long time, and I’d prefer smt to start now instead of waiting two months. I just want a smooth, polished experience. I don’t plan to heavily modify on the first try. If I stick with the original version, I’d only use mods that make it look or function like the Next Gen release. I’m particularly interested in HDR since my screen supports it and I want to take advantage of it (most games lack this). As far as I know, this isn’t the case for all the update’s problems, nor does it guarantee quality HDR—just like Marvel’s Spider-Man, which had underwhelming HDR. You’ve reached this conclusion based on my requirements?
I've completed The Witcher 3 twice without quitting; I finally wrapped it up properly this time, adding all the extra content. It's been a really enjoyable experience so far. Right now I'm playing on a 2060Super that supports 1080p at full resolution with no RT, which works perfectly—so should the 5700XT be fine too. The ray tracing makes the game look stunningly realistic and gorgeous, paired with an excellent soundtrack that pulls you deep into the world, making it hard not to notice how closely Assassin's Creed tried to replicate it.
Yes, but the 5700XT supports OG on 4K while NextGen struggles there. Since I watch on a TV, the 4K advantage is limited. This sentence is long, so it's hard to tell where the /s starts. Is it about Assassin's Creed or the immersive feel of The Witcher 3? I hear many positive things about The Witcher 3, so I'm expecting a great experience. I don't want another GTAV feeling like it's just a hype machine.
Many modifications are now ready for next-gen, and most upcoming ones will only support it without older features. I noticed a shift with next-gen, making it simpler to add changes. There are fewer script compilation issues, and merging mods feels more straightforward. The next-gen build still offers a DX11 installer if you want built-in enhancements like improved textures, but skip the advanced features such as ray tracing. Reviews suggest DX11 works better than DX12.