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The Witcher 3: Pre-Download Demystified – Everything You Need to Know

Yes, you can pre-download The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. This feature has been available on platforms like GOG.com and Steam before major releases and updates, allowing players to download the game files ahead of the official launch. Pre-downloading ensures you can dive into the rich world of The Witcher 3 the moment it goes live, without being hampered by potentially long download times.

The ability to pre-download is a massive boon for gamers eager to experience new content without delay. Especially for a game as large and immersive as The Witcher 3, pre-loading saves valuable time and reduces the stress of launch day congestion on servers. Now, let’s delve into some common questions and answers related to pre-downloading and other aspects of this epic game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Witcher 3

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional valuable information for players of The Witcher 3.

How do I pre-download The Witcher 3?

The process varies slightly depending on the platform:

GOG.com: If you pre-ordered the game or an update through GOG Galaxy, the client should automatically begin the pre-download when it becomes available. Ensure your GOG Galaxy client is up-to-date and configured to automatically download updates.
Steam: Similar to GOG, Steam will automatically begin the pre-download if you have pre-purchased the game. Check your download settings in Steam to ensure automatic downloads are enabled.
PlayStation/Xbox: Pre-download availability on consoles depends on the specific update and platform policies. Check the PlayStation Store or Xbox Store for pre-download options as the release date approaches.

What time can I download The Witcher 3 next-gen update?

The release time for the next-gen update of The Witcher 3 varied depending on the platform. Generally, updates are rolled out according to specific time zones. For instance, the PC and Xbox update might be available at 7 PM EST on a certain date, while PlayStation users might have to wait until midnight EST the following day. Check official announcements for specific times related to your region and platform.

How long does it take to install The Witcher 3?

Installation time varies widely:

Disc Install: Installing from a physical disc typically takes between 20-45 minutes for a full installation, depending on the disc’s data and the speed of your system.
Digital Download: Downloading digitally depends entirely on your internet speed. With a slower connection, downloading the entire game (especially with expansions and DLCs) could take 8 hours or more. A faster connection could significantly reduce this time.

How big is the download for The Witcher 3?

The size of the download depends on whether you are downloading the base game or the complete edition:

Base Game: The base game without expansions and DLC is roughly 16GB.
Complete Edition: The complete edition, including all expansions and DLC, is approximately 32GB. Note that future updates can increase this size.

How can I play The Witcher 3 without the next-gen update?

If you prefer the classic version of the game, you can revert to it:

Steam: Right-click on The Witcher 3 in your Steam Library, select Properties, go to BETAS, and choose CLASSIC. The game will update automatically to the earlier version.
GOG: In GOG Galaxy, go to your “Installed” section, select The Witcher 3, choose Manage Installation → Configure…, and change Beta Channels to Classic. Disable auto-updates and select your preferred version.

Can I play The Witcher 3 on PS5 without the next-gen update?

Yes, you can play the original version of The Witcher 3 on PS5 without installing the next-gen update. However, to fully utilize the PS5’s capabilities and enjoy enhanced graphics and performance, the next-gen update is highly recommended.

How long does it take to 100% complete The Witcher 3?

Achieving 100% completion in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Game of the Year Edition requires a significant time commitment. Players striving to see all aspects of the game can expect to spend around 188 hours. Focusing solely on the main objectives takes about 56 hours.

Is The Witcher 3 a massive game?

Yes, The Witcher 3 is considered a massive game, not just in terms of its storyline and content, but also in terms of its physical size. The game world measures roughly 88 square miles (142 square km), including the DLCs and the Skellige map.

How big is The Witcher 3 download with DLC?

The complete version of The Witcher 3, including all DLC and expansions, is approximately 32GB. Future updates may increase this size, so ensure you have sufficient storage space on your device.

Why is The Witcher 3 so long?

The Witcher 3 is long due to its rich storyline, numerous side quests, extensive open world, and engaging characters. The entire plot, consisting of main tasks and selected side quests, can take around 50 hours to complete at a standard difficulty level. A player’s desire to immerse into this incredible journey will ultimately affect playtime.

How long is The Witcher 3 total playtime with DLC?

Total playtime varies, but most players report spending 100 hours or more to complete the main quest and DLCs. However, some players have managed to complete the main story and DLCs in around 62 hours, depending on their play style and level of exploration.

How long is The Witcher 3 main campaign?

According to How Long To Beat, The Witcher 3 takes the average player around 53 hours to beat the main story. This focuses primarily on the core narrative without delving extensively into side content.

Has The Witcher 3 next-gen version been fixed?

While the next-gen version of The Witcher 3 initially had some issues, CD Projekt Red has released multiple patches to address these problems. They have confirmed they are working on further improvements, so it’s always advisable to keep your game updated to the latest version.

What is the maximum level in The Witcher 3?

The maximum level in The Witcher 3 depends on whether you have the expansions:

Base Game and Hearts of Stone: The maximum level is 70.
With Blood and Wine: The level cap increases to 100.

However, most players typically finish the game around level 50.

Do I need to play The Witcher 1 and 2 before The Witcher 3?

While playing The Witcher 1 and 2 provides valuable context and enhances the overall experience, it is not necessary to enjoy The Witcher 3. The game is designed to be accessible to new players, and there is even a mechanic that allows you to determine Geralt’s choices from the second game if you haven’t played it.

Exploring the Educational Side of Gaming

Beyond its captivating gameplay and intricate storytelling, The Witcher 3 offers numerous opportunities for learning and skill development. From strategic decision-making to understanding complex narratives, games like The Witcher 3 can be powerful educational tools. To learn more about the intersection of games and education, visit the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org. You can also learn more about the work of the Games Learning Society at: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Dive Deeper into the World of The Witcher

The Witcher 3 continues to captivate players with its rich lore, immersive world, and compelling characters. Understanding the intricacies of pre-downloading, installation, and game versions ensures a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience. Whether you are a seasoned Witcher veteran or a newcomer to the Continent, there’s always something new to discover in this expansive and beloved RPG.

Can you pre download Witcher 3?