# Is The Witcher 3 still worth playing today?

> Yes. The Witcher 3 is still one of the best RPGs, and the free 2022 next-gen update improved its graphics and performance on modern hardware.

Yes. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) still holds up as one of the best open-world RPGs, thanks to its writing, side quests and two excellent expansions. The free **next-gen update** released in December 2022 added better lighting, ray tracing on PC, faster loading and quality-of-life fixes, so it looks and plays well on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and modern PCs.

## Why it still works

- **Side quests** often tell stories as strong as the main plot.
- **Choices with consequences** shape the world and Ciri's fate.
- **The expansions:** Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine are considered some of the best DLC in RPG history.
- **The combat** is the weakest part, but higher difficulty settings and build variety make it more engaging.

## How long is it?

Roughly: around 50 hours for the main story, 100+ hours with both expansions and most side content, and much more for full completion. The Game of the Year / Complete Edition includes both expansions.

## Do you need to play The Witcher 1 and 2 first?

No. The Witcher 3 explains what you need, and references to earlier games are mostly background. Reading a story summary of The Witcher 1 and 2 helps you recognize returning characters, but it is optional.

## FAQ

**Should I do the DLC before or after the story?**
Hearts of Stone is designed for around level 30 and Blood and Wine for around level 34, so most players start them late in the main story or after finishing it. Blood and Wine works best as an epilogue.

**Can you keep playing after the ending?**
Yes. After the credits you return to the world and can finish side quests and the expansions.

**Is there a point of no return?**
Yes. Late in the main story the game warns you before the final quests; after that, some side quests are no longer available.

**How many endings does The Witcher 3 have?**
Three main endings for Ciri, plus many epilogue variations for the world depending on your choices.

**Which is better, Hearts of Stone or Blood and Wine?**
Hearts of Stone is the tighter story; Blood and Wine is larger, with a new region, Toussaint. Both are worth playing.

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https://gamevoyages.com/is-the-witcher-3-still-good-in-2024/ · Game Voyage · Checked 2026-10-30