


To facilitate evasion, The Witcher 3 introduces a sidestep maneuver. Not only does this waste stamina, but standing in place to block will likely to get you flanked by other enemies. It is important to keep moving during combat, rather than using stamina to block attacks that could have been avoided. Stamina is also used to cast magica during combat, making it particularly precious. Timing the block to meet an incoming attack initiates a parry, which deflects the attack and leaves the attacker open momentarily. Geralt can enter a defensive stance with the left trigger or the right mouse button, whereby he automatically blocks incoming blows at the cost of some stamina. Of course, even the most basic of enemies can back-step or block to avoid taking damage, so you will need to adapt as the situation demands. Instead, attacks are streamlined and fluid, so you can string heavy and light blows together in whatever way you see fit. There are no strict combos or button inputs to remember. Light attacks are faster, while heavy attacks are slower and stronger. Geralt has light and heavy damage-dealing strikes. Geralt automatically brandishes the correct weapon when engaging these enemy types, but you can also draw or sheathe your weapons at will. His silver sword is ideal for monsters, while his steel sword is better suited for human enemies. The Witcher 3 sees Geralt armed with two longswords, which he can switch between as needed. That's not to say that a good brawl isn't fun on its own. Making good use of Geralt's resources is always more productive than brandishing steel alone. The Witcher 3's combat is fast and thrilling, but also highly strategic. It is the combination of swordplay and movement abilities, magical attacks, powerful sub-weapons, and potent potions that make Geralt the powerhouse that he is. Geralt is an accomplished fighter, but a group of armed thugs can easily make short work of him.

However, Geralt's strength lies in his versatility, and not his brute strength. Geralt fights men and monsters alike with sword strikes and magical attacks, as you would in any game set in a fantasy universe. Silver, Swords, and SorceryAt first glance, The Witcher 3 seems like your standard action/RPG hybrid.
