During E3 2016 this year, CD Projekt Red, the developer of the critically acclaimed game The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, announced that they would be developing a standalone Gwent title. This new game was set to launch on the Xbox One, PC, and PS4, much to the excitement of fans who had enjoyed the card game within The Witcher 3.
Development and Delay
Today, it has been announced that the beta development stage of the game has been delayed by a month. Originally scheduled for September 2016, the beta will now take place in October 2016. This delay has been met with mixed reactions from the community, but the developers have provided a clear rationale for the postponement.
Gwent explained more on their website:
At E3 we announced that we’d launch the Closed Beta of GWENT: The Witcher Card Game in September. Unfortunately, we feel we need some extra time with the game before we hand it off to you for testing. We know we can make a first impression only once, and want to be sure everything is ready before we blast off. Delivering a good game is more important to us than keeping a deadline. Still, that doesn’t mean we don’t realize that delays can be disappointing, and we apologize for making you wait. Closed Beta will now begin on October 25th.
Why the Delay?
The decision to delay the beta was not taken lightly. CD Projekt Red emphasized the importance of delivering a polished and well-balanced game. The developers are keenly aware that first impressions are crucial, especially for a game that has a dedicated fan base eagerly awaiting its release. By taking additional time, they aim to ensure that the game mechanics are finely tuned and that any potential bugs are ironed out before players get their hands on it.
Moreover, the delay allows the developers to incorporate feedback from internal testing and make necessary adjustments. This approach aligns with CD Projekt Red’s reputation for prioritizing quality over meeting deadlines. Their commitment to excellence has been evident in their previous titles, and they aim to uphold this standard with Gwent: The Witcher Card Game.
What to Expect from Gwent: The Witcher Card Game
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game promises to offer a rich and immersive experience, building on the mechanics that made it a beloved mini-game in The Witcher 3. Players can expect a variety of new cards, strategies, and game modes that will enhance the depth and replayability of the game. The standalone version will also feature a single-player campaign, providing a narrative-driven experience that complements the multiplayer component.
The game will include several factions, each with its unique cards and abilities. This diversity will allow players to experiment with different playstyles and strategies, adding layers of complexity and excitement to the gameplay. Additionally, the developers have hinted at regular updates and expansions, ensuring that the game remains fresh and engaging over time.
Community Reactions and Future Prospects
While some fans may be disappointed by the delay, the overall sentiment within the community has been understanding. Many players appreciate the developers’ transparency and their dedication to delivering a high-quality product. The anticipation for the beta remains high, and the extra month of development is expected to result in a more polished and enjoyable experience.
Looking ahead, Gwent: The Witcher Card Game has the potential to become a significant player in the digital card game market. With its strong foundation in The Witcher universe and the expertise of CD Projekt Red, the game is poised to attract both fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. The upcoming beta will be a crucial step in refining the game and gathering valuable feedback from the community.
In conclusion, while the delay of the Gwent beta may be a minor setback, it underscores CD Projekt Red’s commitment to quality and their understanding of the importance of first impressions. Fans can look forward to a well-crafted and engaging card game that builds on the legacy of The Witcher series.
Source: PlayGwent
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