After 26 hours in The Blood of Dawnwalker, comparisons to The Witcher 3 feel less and less accurate

When The Blood of Dawnwalker was first revealed, conversations inevitably brought CD Projekt Red into the discussion. As a project created by ex-Witcher 3 developers, the tagline became a common touchstone for games journalists and players trying to understand the vibe and style of the new intellectual property. Both titles feature protagonists in medieval high-fantasy worlds where dialogue choices shape the experience. However, after spending significant time exploring the open world, players and critics note that comparisons between the two games feel increasingly inaccurate.

The two role-playing games are mechanically and tonally distinct from one another. While The Witcher 3 balances a campy fairytale atmosphere with its darker moments, protagonist Coen of Laslea faces a much more grim reality in The Blood of Dawnwalker. The game opens with a black plague fever dream throwback, maintaining a bleak tone throughout. Furthermore, Coen operates under a 30-day timer, and his actions in the open world trigger punishing edicts that increase pressure as players fight vampire lord Brencis.

Combat systems also diverge significantly. Unlike Geralt of Rivia, who utilizes witchcraft, signs, and versatile swordplay, Coen relies entirely on melee combat without vampire abilities or witchcraft. Players must master directional blocks and strict dodges rather than relying on standard dodge-rolls and button mashing. Additionally, the world of Vale Sangora is not the size of a literal country and lacks the mission variety built across CD Projekt Red's extensive book and game legacy. Observers suggest that comparing the first entry of a potential saga to an established multi-part franchise sets up unrealistic expectations for players.