The Witcher
The Witcher is a 2007 role-playing game developed by CD Projekt Red, based on the fantasy novels of Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster-hunting mutant known as a witcher, navigating a morally grey world where choices carry weight and consequences often unfold hours later.
The game combined a distinctive rhythm-based combat system, where players timed mouse clicks to chain sword strikes across three fighting stances, with a deep story rich in political intrigue and mature themes. It was praised for refusing simple good-versus-evil answers, letting players decide between factions such as the oppressed non-humans and the zealous Order without ever offering clear heroes or villains. Geralt could also brew alchemical potions and prepare for hunts by researching each creature's weaknesses.
Its success established CD Projekt Red as a major studio and laid the groundwork for one of gaming's most beloved franchises. The original was later reworked in an Enhanced Edition with improved pacing and translations, and remains available through modern digital storefronts for those wanting to experience Geralt's beginnings.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to The Witcher, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
| Alternative | Price | Steam Deck | Runs on |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings | € 19,99 | Steam Deck Unsupported | PC, Mac, Linux |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | € 39,99 | Steam Deck Verified | PC |
| Kingdom Come: Deliverance | € 29,99 | Steam Deck Playable | PC |
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings
€ 19,99The darker, choice-heavy direct sequel to the original.
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings runs on PC, Mac, Linux. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
€ 39,99The acclaimed open-world sequel and one of the greatest RPGs ever made.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance
€ 29,99A grounded medieval RPG with realistic combat and a reactive world.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch.
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