The Witcher and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings

For more of: The Witcher’s world, characters, and soundtrack
Notable differences: Neither game is open world, and each feature slightly different takes on the combat system
Availability:
The Witcher: Windows (Steam Deck OK), macOS
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings: Windows (Steam Deck YMMV), macOS, Linux, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

We start with the obvious. Given that The Witcher was sort of a cult hit before the third entry catapulted it into the status of modern classic, a lot of folks haven’t played the first two entries. If that’s you, you should do something about it. Admit it; it’s hard to quit Geralt and crew.

Don’t worry, going back doesn’t feel too weird. In fact, as I discovered when I played the first and second games for the first time (which was after I fully completed all of The Witcher 3), it dramatically helps to contextualize the third game’s world and events—and after Witcher 2 you might find yourself itching for another playthrough of its sequel, which is hardly a horrible problem to have. Both prequels are very, very different from The Witcher 3, and also from each other. But if it’s The Witcher you want more of, and in game form, this is it.

There’s one caveat: There is a remake of the first game on the way. Given that many people aren’t fans of the original as it exists now (I am not one of those; I thoroughly enjoyed the first and of its all jankiness) you may wish to hold off until the actual remake.

Read More: The Original Witcher Is Getting A Fancy New Unreal 5 Remake

The Witcher 2 certainly feels like a more modern game. And if experiencing this saga out of order really has you in knots, consider reading the books to bide your time until the remake of the first game is complete. The games pick up directly where the books leave off, and they make for a great read.