For many gamers, New Game + is one of the best reasons to replay a video game. Sure, fighting through a game once is typically pretty fun on its own, but making your way through the same missions with upgraded weapons and gear? It's an absolute blast, and one of the best ways that developers can extend the life of their game without resorting to expensive map packs.
That said, New Game + is usually a feature reserved for action-adventure games. Titles like Batman: Arkham Knight and The Last of Us are common examples of the mode, but finding a role-playing game with the same feature is almost impossible. True, most RPGs take around 40 hours to beat, so a lot of gamers will only make it through once — but it's a bit strange that the mode isn't more popular with a genre built on leveling up and grinding for better gear.
Then again, just because New Game + isn't a common RPG feature doesn't mean that it's impossible to do. Case in point: CD Projekt Red just announced that a New Game + feature would be added to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt as part of the game's free downloadable content:
While it's a bit sad that CD Projekt Red's massive free DLC campaign is coming to a close, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more fitting finale. Previous DLC packs have subtly changed the way that players make their way through the game, but New Game + is on an entirely different level, something that changes how the game is played — and it's something that should keep fans entertained until the game's first proper expansion is released.
Unfortunately, CD Project Red hasn't revealed much in the way of details: other than the fact that New Game + is coming, not much else is known about the mode. While The Witcher 3 is an open-ended game (especially compared to other RPGs), the first several hours follow a more linear path. It'll be interesting to see if CD Projekt Red maintains that same pacing throughout New Game + or gives players absolute freedom right off the bat.
CD Projekt Red has yet to announce an official release date, but you can expect to see New Game + make its way to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt soon.
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