Is The Witcher 3 Platinum A Feat Worth Boasting About? A Deep Dive
Platinuming The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is more of a marathon than a sprint. It requires dedication, patience, and a solid understanding of the game’s mechanics. It’s not brutally difficult in the same vein as a Souls-like game, but it does demand a significant time investment, potentially upwards of 200 hours, and a focused approach to avoid missing key trophies. The challenge lies primarily in the time commitment and the need to be meticulous rather than overcoming extreme gameplay hurdles. So, while not a walk in the park, a Witcher 3 platinum is definitely achievable with the right strategy and mindset, making it a rewarding experience for dedicated fans.
The Road to Platinum: A Detailed Assessment
The platinum trophy for The Witcher 3, like the game itself, is sprawling and intricate. Several factors contribute to its overall difficulty, which falls somewhere between “challenging but attainable” and “grindy for completionists.”
Time Investment: The Biggest Hurdle
The most significant barrier to entry is the sheer time required. You’re looking at a minimum of 200 hours, possibly more, depending on your playstyle and familiarity with the game. This isn’t just about rushing through the main story; you’ll need to explore side quests, contracts, and points of interest to maximize your experience and unlock specific trophies.
Missable Trophies: Planning is Key
While the game has received numerous post-launch updates making some aspects easier, there are still missable trophies. These usually revolve around specific quests, contracts, or Gwent card collections. A trophy guide is almost essential to ensure you don’t lock yourself out of the platinum later in your playthrough.
Death March Difficulty: A Test of Skill
One trophy requires completing the game on the Death March difficulty. While not insurmountable, this demands a strategic approach to combat, careful management of resources, and a good understanding of enemy weaknesses. It’s not necessarily about twitch reflexes but about tactical planning and leveraging Geralt’s abilities effectively.
Grind-Heavy Trophies: Patience is a Virtue
Certain trophies involve repetitive tasks, such as getting 50 headshot kills with the crossbow. These are more tedious than challenging and test your patience. Having a dedicated farming strategy can help alleviate some of the grind.
Gwent: The Card Collector’s Conundrum
Collecting all Gwent cards is a considerable undertaking. Several cards are only obtainable through specific quests or merchants, making it easy to miss them. Paying close attention to Gwent opportunities throughout your playthrough is crucial.
Overall Assessment: Tedious More Than Difficult
In summary, the Witcher 3 platinum isn’t inherently “hard” in the sense of requiring exceptional gaming skills. The primary challenge is the dedication and meticulousness required to navigate its vast world, complete all necessary tasks, and avoid missing crucial trophies. It’s a testament to your persistence and thoroughness rather than your raw gaming prowess. If you enjoy the game and are willing to invest the time, the platinum is a very achievable goal. The GamesLearningSociety.org studies how games impact learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about achieving platinum in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt:
1. How many playthroughs are needed to platinum The Witcher 3?
Technically, it’s possible in one playthrough if you’re incredibly meticulous and use a guide from the start. However, most players find it more enjoyable to do at least two playthroughs: one for enjoyment and exploration, and another focused on mopping up missed trophies and completing Death March.
2. Is Death March difficulty really that hard?
Death March can be challenging, but it’s manageable with the right strategies. Focus on dodging, parrying, and utilizing oils and potions to exploit enemy weaknesses. Leveling up and upgrading your gear also makes a significant difference. Remember to save often!
3. What are the most missable trophies in The Witcher 3?
Some of the most commonly missed trophies include those tied to specific quests like the Gwent trophies, contracts, and choices that affect character fates. Always consult a trophy guide before making important decisions.
4. What’s the best way to collect all Gwent cards?
Talk to every merchant and innkeeper you encounter and check if they sell Gwent cards. Complete all Gwent-related quests and tournaments. Keep track of which cards you’re missing and use a guide to pinpoint their locations.
5. Is New Game+ necessary for the platinum?
No, New Game+ isn’t strictly necessary for the platinum, but it can make subsequent playthroughs easier, especially for the Death March trophy, as you’ll retain your levels, skills, and gear.
6. What level should I be before starting the DLCs?
It’s generally recommended to be around level 30-35 for Hearts of Stone and level 34-40 for Blood and Wine. These expansions contain challenging enemies and quests, so being adequately leveled is essential.
7. Are there any glitches that can prevent me from getting the platinum?
While rare, glitches can sometimes occur. Saving frequently and creating multiple save files can help mitigate potential issues. If you encounter a game-breaking glitch, try reloading an earlier save or searching online forums for solutions.
8. Which skills are most useful for a Death March playthrough?
Skills that enhance your damage output and survivability are crucial. Focus on combat skills like Fast Attacks and Adrenaline generation, as well as alchemy skills for potion duration and toxicity tolerance. Quen is also an invaluable sign for defensive purposes.
9. How important is crafting and alchemy in The Witcher 3?
Crafting and alchemy are extremely important, especially on higher difficulties. Utilizing oils, potions, and bombs can significantly enhance your combat effectiveness and provide crucial advantages against tougher enemies.
10. What’s the fastest way to level up in The Witcher 3?
Completing quests and contracts is the most efficient way to level up. Prioritize quests that are close to your current level and explore points of interest to discover additional quests and resources.
11. Should I focus on the main story or side quests first?
It’s generally recommended to balance the main story with side quests. Side quests provide valuable experience, gear, and resources that can make the main story easier. Ignoring them can leave you underleveled and ill-equipped.
12. Are there any online resources that can help me with the platinum?
Yes, there are numerous online resources available, including trophy guides, walkthroughs, and forums dedicated to The Witcher 3. These resources can provide valuable tips, strategies, and solutions to challenging quests and trophies.
13. What is the hardest boss in The Witcher 3?
Opinions vary, but many players consider Dettlaff van der Eretein from the Blood and Wine DLC to be one of the most challenging bosses. His speed, aggression, and multiple phases require excellent timing and skillful execution.
14. Is the platinum trophy different between the PS4 and PS5 versions?
The trophies themselves are generally the same between the PS4 and PS5 versions. However, the PS5 version offers improved performance, graphics, and faster loading times, which can enhance the overall platinum hunting experience.
15. Is The Witcher 3 platinum worth the effort?
That’s subjective and depends on your personal preferences. If you love the game and enjoy completing all its content, the platinum can be a rewarding experience. However, if you find grinding tedious, it might not be worth the time investment. It truly depends on how much you enjoy the game!
Ultimately, achieving platinum in The Witcher 3 is a testament to your dedication and thorough exploration of its rich and immersive world. It’s a challenging but rewarding goal for those willing to invest the time and effort.