Ars Technica journalist urges players to reject social pressure to finish The Witcher 3
Author contrasts fixed protagonist model with character-driven RPGs, citing personal experience with The Witcher 3 and Crimson Desert
An opinion piece published by Ars Technica challenges the prevailing notion that players are obligated to complete or enjoy The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, despite its status as a critically acclaimed title. The author argues that genre labels and community consensus do not guarantee personal enjoyment, citing their own experience of forcing themselves to finish the game over several years due to social pressure rather than genuine interest.
The article contrasts the fixed protagonist model of The Witcher 3 with role-playing games that offer greater character creation and progression. The author notes that while the game’s writing is impressive, the experience of playing as the pre-defined Geralt of Rivia does not align with their preference for defining their own alter ego and experiencing a journey from novice to master.
The piece draws a parallel between the reception of The Witcher 3 in 2015 and the current reception of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 in 2025, noting the author’s similar lack of enjoyment for the latter. The author also mentions spending $70 on the recently hyped open-world RPG Crimson Desert but bouncing off it immediately for reasons similar to their experience with The Witcher 3.
The article includes an apology from the Ars staff for a two-month gap in their monthly series and asks readers for feedback on whether they prefer coverage of older PC games or more recent titles. The author suggests that while media and social dynamics can flatten taste, it is important for players to focus on what they actually like rather than what they feel they should like.
The Witcher 3 is currently discounted by 80% on GOG, priced at $7.99, and has received a major free update with ray-tracing features recently. The author notes that the game remains well-maintained by its developers and offers over 100 hours of entertainment, suggesting it may still appeal to players who prefer its specific power fantasy and authored character model.
