The Witcher 3 won numerous Game of the Year awards upon release, with critics and influencers alike declaring it a masterpiece. Despite the universal praise, the author admits they never connected with the game, forcing themselves to finish it over several years. This personal experience reveals how even acclaimed games might not suit every player.

The core issue lies in RPG design philosophy. Unlike games like Skyrim or Mass Effect where players create their own characters, The Witcher 3 places you in the shoes of the well-defined Geralt of Rivia. While the writing is excellent, the author prefers creating their own identity rather than inhabiting an established character with decades of backstory.

The author also distinguishes between power fantasy and earned competence. The Witcher 3 starts you as a powerful character, while the author enjoys the journey from novice to master found in games like Elden Ring. These subtle differences within the RPG genre highlight how personal taste varies despite similar surface-level features.

The author warns against following gaming hype and spending money on games you think you should like rather than ones you'll actually enjoy. The Witcher 3 is currently available at 80% off ($7.99) on GOG, making it an affordable option for those who prefer pre-defined protagonists.