Review: The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings

The Witcher 2 follows hot on the heels of a number of high-profile RPGs such as Skyrim, Reckoning and Mass Effect 3. Even though, in many respects, the game hasn't received the same airtime with console players, it holds its own with a unique, addictive storyline.

The Witcher 2 follows the exploits of Geralt of Rivia, a witcher (or mutant) falsely accused of murdering the king. Geralt spends his time chasing after the real assassin all over Timeria, a kingdom on the brink of civil war. The narrative is intriguing and engaging, and players quickly realise that their actions affect the course of the story.

Fortunately, Geralt has a trick or two up his sleeve, including a wide array of weapons, and the ability to cast magic and create a number of useful potions. While there is some variation in weapons, like the use of traps and grenades, the real advantage in combat comes from magic and alchemy.

Magic is limited to five spells, though each spell is complementary and designed to change the way players fight. For example, 'Igni' casts a fireball and 'Yrden' holds a baddy in place; combining these effects is an easy way to take down large baddies.

On the other hand, alchemy gives players the ability to create potions that increase certain attributes, such as oils that enhance the damage weapons can cause and that make grenades even more powerful and destructive.

Combat is tough and unforgiving towards a button-mashing approach. Geralt needs to adapt his combat style to each situation - setting traps, applying oils to weapons, and drinking appropriate potions might be critical to a positive outcome.

Many RPGs fall over on the Xbox because of clunky, complex control systems. The Witcher 2 works well because the magic and weapons options are kept simple. Geralt is able to go into slow motion quickly and change between spells and secondary weapons. This makes the transition between combat styles quite easy.

There are a number of weaknesses in the game. The inventory system is clunky, and comparing items and trading is cumbersome. Also, the game is filled with Quick Time Events (QTE), where players have to mindlessly press a combination of buttons to progress in the story.

Finally, the violence, gratuitous sex scenes and political themes are not appropriate for a younger audience. Fortunately, these issues are relatively minor and don't take away from the enjoyment of the story.

The Witcher 2 is a brilliant port from the PC version. The story is riveting and addictive and Geralt is a sympathetic protagonist. The game is a near-perfect open-world adventure that still manages to keep the story tight and engaging. It is the best game I've played this year.