E3 2014 hasn’t even properly begun yet, and we’re already getting massive reveals from studios and developers all across the world. CD Projekt Red has held a conference just a few hours ago, talking about projects, the creation of the Witcher 3 Griffin figurine (more on that later) and ultimately revealing a pre-E3 gameplay trailer, the Sword of Destiny.
The trailer shows some familiar sights, sights that we’ve seen from previous trailers and screenshots. It also reveals a ton of new things, things we’re extremely excited to see. First of all, the trailer seems to be focused on creating the setting for the game. The Wild Hunt is the driving event, and Geralt is placed in a huge world where every decision has severe consequences. We’re introduced to a new female character that seems to be somewhat related to Geralt – white hair, the presence of swords on her back (possibly suggesting she is also a witcher) and an obvious tie to Geralt’s past. This is not Yennefer, mind you, as she’s depicted differently in the novels and short stories, and is a powerful sorceress, not a physical warrior.
The game also teases the presence of mounted combat. We’ve known for some time now that Geralt will have a mount in The Witcher 3, and that the game will introduce horse-riding to help players adjust to the colossal open world. The animations of the horse-riding are impeccable, and we’re excited to see that Geralt has no problems in swinging a sword while riding his horse. We are also introduced to a large number of new enemies and monsters, from the riders of the Wild Hunt, to the fearsome and noble griffin that CD Projekt previously teased.
Speaking about the griffin, the developers have revealed a 10 inch statuette of Geralt fighting a Griffin, and the process of creating and designing this statuette. This will likely be the supreme reward for pre-ordering the game’s Collector’s edition, but pricing and availability hasn’t been announced just yet. The Witcher 3 has been delayed to a February 2015 release date, so that’s when we’re likely to get to play the game. More information about The Witcher 3 will surely emerge during E3, so keep your eye on GamerHeadlines and the event for the latest on Geralt’s final adventure.