Unveiling the Adventure: How Long Does it Take to Conquer The Witcher 3?

22 Jun 2024

the witcher 3 wild hunt how long to beat

The open world of video games offers an unparalleled level of freedom and immersion. It's no wonder that gamers often find themselves wondering, "Just how long will it take me to truly experience everything this game has to offer?" This question rings particularly true for those captivated by the sprawling landscapes and intricate narratives of CD Projekt Red's masterpiece, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

Before diving into the depths of Novigrad's underworld or battling monstrous beasts in the Skellige Isles, let's address the question on every eager adventurer's mind: just how long does it take to conquer The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt?

The answer, much like the paths Geralt can take, is nuanced and depends greatly on your playstyle. Are you the type of gamer who meticulously combs through every corner of the map, completing every side quest and collecting every last herb? Or do you prefer to focus on the main narrative, savoring the cinematic story beats and epic confrontations?

For those who crave the complete Witcher experience, be prepared to dedicate a significant chunk of time. A full completionist run, including the two expansive DLC expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, can easily exceed 200 hours of gameplay. That's a testament to the sheer depth and breadth of content packed into this critically acclaimed title.

However, if your focus lies solely on unraveling the main storyline, expect a more manageable, albeit still substantial, playtime. Completing the main story missions in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt will typically take around 50-60 hours. This streamlined approach allows you to witness Geralt's emotional journey and the epic conclusion to his tale without delving too deeply into side content.

Of course, many players find themselves somewhere in between these two extremes. Perhaps you're drawn to the allure of Gwent, the addictive card game within the game, or you can't resist lending a helping hand to every villager in need. In this case, your playtime will likely fall somewhere between the 60-hour mark and the 200-hour behemoth, offering a healthy balance of story progression and exploration.

Regardless of your approach, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a richly rewarding experience. The immersive world, compelling characters, and morally gray choices make every hour spent in the shoes of Geralt of Rivia an unforgettable adventure.

So, whether you choose to lose yourself for weeks on end or embark on a more focused quest, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt promises an unforgettable journey through a world brimming with magic, danger, and endless possibilities.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Playthrough Lengths in The Witcher 3

Playthrough Style	Advantages	Disadvantages
Completionist (200+ hours)	Experience every quest, location, and story beat. Fully immerse yourself in the world and its lore.	Can be overwhelming and time-consuming. May lead to burnout if not paced properly.
Main Story Focused (50-60 hours)	Enjoy a streamlined narrative experience. Focus on the core plot and character development.	Miss out on side content and world exploration. May feel less connected to the world and its inhabitants.
Balanced Approach (60-200 hours)	A blend of main story progression and exploration. Allows for customization and personal preference in gameplay.	May require some decision-making on which side content to prioritize.

No matter how you choose to approach The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the journey is yours to shape. The path is long and winding, but with a world this captivating, you won't want the adventure to end.