The Last of Us! Exploring the relativism in moral decision-making (especially as it relates to killing, death, and lying) and the gray nature of good and evil in human beings! Also, the ability of video games to immerse the audience in the story more so than any other medium. For instance, by the end of "Horizon: Zero Dawn" I took it as a personal affront every time someone would refer to Aloy (as being controlled by me) as "girl," even though I'm a guy.
Deus Ex: Human Revolution. In games where taking enemies out non-lethally is an option, I always take the non-lethal path. I was sneaking around an area, incapacitating these gang members. I got to the third floor or so of a building, and I realized I could break through a wall if I had some explosives. So I tossed the c4 or whatever, detonated it; and there was a person on the other side of the wall that I had no idea was there. He died in the blast. I felt horrible! I had to pause the game a moment and think about what I had done! I had no intention of killing anyone! I still reflect back on it to this day. I have many stories about games making me question morality, making me feel emotion.
I mostly agree, however what I would say is that if you got the 'bad' ending in the game, which I personally didn't, it comes down to you being overprotective of Ciri. I really think it's wrong to be overprotective of her, but I understand why many players might have been, so I do empathise with those who got the 'bad' ending. I think this is what makes the game really stand out for me: there's not a bad ending but a tragic ending, the ending resulting from you acting in the wrong way but with the best of intentions. I think the game tries to tempt you into believing you're both responsible for her and stronger than her, but it's her playable flashbacks are there primarily to clue you in to the fact that she's actually stronger than you and an independent adult.
That's one part of why I treated Ciri like an independent adult, because the game presented her as not only responsible and mature, but equal to Geralt in combat ability. And not only that, but her Elder Blood gave Ciri a much more powerful edge against her foes that no other characters had. In those moments when she was clearly frustrated and hurting, to me I felt that supporting her would benefit her both immediately and in the long run, and the other options honestly felt patronizing of her. Now when I say that I don't mean to insult the people who chose the more protective options, because as you said, it's completely understandable why people would want to be protective of her, considering what she went through when Geralt wasn't around to give her a helping hand. Even though she is a powerful warrior with a sharp mind, she still made it out of all those horrible situations by the skin of her teeth (even with the help of friends and strangers alike). And no one playing would ever want to put her in situations like that again if they couldn't help it. The irony being that Geralt CAN help it, since he takes her to confront the crones again, search for more answers about her lineage, and in the final confrontation with the Wild Hunt to emerge victorious. Both are strong on their own, but when together they're nearly unstoppable. But the other reason that made me want to give my full support during her times of need is a bit funny. In many books and movies and whatnot, whenever the young prodigy (like Ciri) is constantly being patronized and overly protected (in addition to the obvious and sometimes not-so-obvious sycophants that just want to use them for their own gain), it usually leads to disaster. I felt that would happen if I tried to order her around and give her misguided moments of 'tough love.' I know those are far removed when weighing my options in the game's moments of choice, but I can't help but think of wanting to the break the cycle of cliches like the 'Prodigy Dilemma' I spontaneously invented during my proofread of this comment; especially in a game that brilliantly subverts the typical fantasy tropes that usually plague other games and such.
The problem is that the choices arent consistent. It punishes you for being overprotective of her when you accompany her to see the witches, thats fine, my only problem with that is that there will be those who took that choice just to see the dialogue rather than to protect her, since the witcher 3 has really good dialogue. My main issue is that it does this and then also wants you to coddle her like a child and punishes you when you tell her to calm down when shes being overly emotional or when you tell her she cant be good at everything instead of trying to distract her from her woes. Does the game want me to act like shes a capable adult or does it want me to pamper her?
@@sernoddicusthegallant6986 Well, the good thing is, you don't have too get it 100% "right". More like 80%, I think. A few minor "misjudgements" might be forgiven in the end. At least as far as her survival goes. I still had to replay about a third of the game however, since one difference (Empress Cirilla or Witcher Ciri) seemed to rely on one single decision. And my Witcher Gerald did care a little less for what might be good for the rest of the world (Empress Cirilla) and cared more about Ciri's happyness (on the path).
I do not agree, ciri is inmature and weak compared to geralt (no signals, potions, mutations) -she gets angry if geralt acepts ehmyr coin when she knows about the financial troubles of witchers -she gets angry and imprudent about avenging vesemir (ridiculous how geralt agreed on that, and how they won that imposible battle without consequences) -she gets angry and wants to destroy avalach's lab just bcause her jealous gf bitch her, she already knew avalach wanted bcs her blood, he never was trying to lie -she gets manipulated by the circus people, notice in that quest how the man instanly refuses geralt proposes, he is a scum criminal :/ I do not like ciri's character and i think it is stupid that the main story is satisgy her caprichos in order to not get her suicided
I spend atleast 4-5 hours a day most days watching RUclips, I subscribe and follow many creators all whom I respect and idolize and love the personality of, but if I'm honest with my self I don't think I've ever come across a content creator such as yourself who articulates their opinions and ideas so well and makes such emotionally and powerfully driven videos, you have such a way with words and choice of background music that every video of yours is pure gold to me and I get unbelievably excited every time you've released something new, and the fact that you've now made a video about a game ( especially one that I love ) and sound like you may do more in the future has me so happy. Thanks for all you do because us fans and followers appreciate it, and you greatly.
As the father of an 11yo Ibhave raised by myself, I couldn't agree more. When he talked about Ciri's outcome being linked to the confidence you instilled in her, I pretty much lost it.
@Wucci Mane the Ending with Witcher-Ciri was my first playthrough and the only time in my life that a game made me cry. It was just perfect (by that point i followed the books and games for more than half of my life)
I played the Witcher 3 shortly after my wife miscarried and almost lost her own life in the process. I remember playing the questline with the Baron and his deceased child, and how its narrative and telling broke me, then it put some steel in me, it helped me look at my own situation and take control of it with agency, and not to lament in the pity and pain of life lost, my wive's pain and wrestling with letting go of motherhood.
The thing with Witcher video games is that they are based on a series of masterfully written books by Andrzej Sapkowski. The moral grayness you speak of is also one of key the aspects that can be found there, alongside the characters that are imbued with realistic identity, sense of morality, relationships with other characters etc. Without that kind of basis, I doubt the Witcher video games would be what they are now. All in all, I would strongly encourage everyone to read the books to get the full picture.
One might argue that every story Sapkowski wrote about the Witcher is a morality puzzle. The speech in the very first short story about the lesser evil acts as the mission statement, not because it's true, but because Geralt must forever choose between evils. And the hardest part is discerning which is the lesser. As often as not, he chooses the greater evil thinking it's the lesser, or trying to avoid choosing. Sometimes, not choosing at all is choosing the greater evil.
Having a daughter and absolutely loving this game and the relationship between Ciri and Geralt, I tear up every time I think about even losing Ciri. That scene (you guys know which one) always gets me. When I saw the even the clips in this video, I teared up. I adore this game and truly enjoyed the points you extrapolated concerning moral decisions. Well done.
wow a film youtuber who thinks of videogames as a form of art on the same level as film and television. just when I thought I couldn't love your content more!
You know you have succeeded as a person (and a content creator) when your voice already triggers soothing and happiness in one's listener, and how their throat will constrict and vision will blur when you show and/or talk about emotional moments. Thank you, dear Narrator, for your work.
It's interesting how deeply these virtual characters can make us feel... I like to think I'm a pretty grounded older gamer, but there have been a couple of times where a game made me feel more that I expected. I tried sitting back and thinking about whether it was a combination of voice acting, the quality of the written dialogue, the experience of playing through the game and visual elements of character design - but always came back to the conclusion that while those were indeed aspects of why I felt what I was feeling, they did not constitute the entire response. It was not because of a combination of designed and constructed things tricked me for a few minutes into having a pang of guilt, or a rush of joy - it was just because the journey had absorbed me to the point where the virtual nature of these people no longer mattered. They crossed that line that any fictional character on a page or in a movie might, where that barrier is gone and they are real to us at an emotional level and their unreal nature no longer matters. So in one game I felt nausating guilt at having done what the game had wanted me to do to save the world, but in doing so I had become another man who abandoned (however unintentionally) a woman that had always been abandoned by others. I promised to come back and didn't - not that Mass Effect 3 gave me the choice at all. And it absolutely broke my heart. I'd completed the game, I'd won, but felt hollow and defeated because of it, with no sense of accomplishment and zero desire to experience that feeling again. And in another game - the one you discussed here so wonderfully - I felt so much pride in not my efforts to resolve the world's problems, but in my daughter's. It still makes me feel that swell of pride in Ciri's actions to this day. And neither of these people were real. It's a testament to what goes into this medium, that is so often considered lightweight, throwaway entertainment... I can't wait to find out which game will reach the high waterwark of The Witcher 3 for storytelling in the medium.
Your videos never fail to imspire me! You exploration into human empathy is what impresses me most. You are a very unique creator with content of great quailty! Thank you for all the effort you put into your work!
Absolutely beautiful!!! Your words, choice of music and scenes you displayed between Geralt and Ciri brought me to tears. Thank you for reminding me how much I love this game and why it's my favourite game of all time!
@@Jjrmtv True, when it comes to lore Dragon Age is a pretty good comparison. The story of the Witcher 3 is a bit deeper than DA Origins but both have their own advantages. Origins still the best DA
@@GamingKick Origins is the best game I ever played...but I haven't played Witcher yet. I do enjoy the choices your character make determines the outcome. It gives the game complexity, depth and a meaningful experience. One feels connected with their virtual companions.
@@Jjrmtv So true. Origins did such a great job building the world and characters. But Witcher 3 improved that even more...I wish I could play it for the first time again.
My friend, I don't know your name but I know something else : You are a beautiful human being. Whatever motivated you to start this channel, I'm really grateful it happened. I'm watching some of your old videos again (the 4 archetypes right now), they are guides through my personal journey. I'm convinced you're making the world a better place with this quality of content and insights... Thank you A french frie(nd)
If you are interested in games capacity to engage the players empathy, search in youtube for: Telling stories with systems - Mark Brown Morality in Games - Mark Brown LSOO: Thanks for the hardwork that went into this, and looking forward to your future discussions about the interactive medium
@@karbut4135 yeah CDPR was like* players will try to have threesome with triss and yen we already let them have alot lets not let them have this one cuz we're EVIL BOO HA HA HA HA HA* XD
Everytime when I start to think about Witcher series, how I will replay them one last time (for now) before C2077, moves me somehow. That sentimental attachment to piece of art and its every element. And now your video appeared before starting my Witcher marathon... Wonderfull analysis, wonderfull video. Thank you:)
Your work is outstanding and necessary, it's amazing the fact that you can express with words those things and ideas that many of us intuitively already know but are unable to explain due to the lack of vocabulary or knowledge of terminology. Most of us reflect on whatever you are explaining as something we know deep inside but we can't find a propper way of translating into words. You venturing into videogames territory is something I was looking forward to, and you started with probably the best single player RPG ever made.
I definitely agree, videos like this are important, there's so much going on in this game that many players just can't express it, I've seen it multiple times and they just love this game without really understanding or knowing how to tell someone why.
I definitely agree, videos like this are important, there's so much going on in this game that many players just can't express it, I've seen it multiple times and they just love this game without really understanding or knowing how to tell someone why.
I had trouble getting into it, because the setting is so silly. The main character got to be sixty or so, he looks like a forty and acts like a much younger man still. Zombies survived without food and water for 20 years and supposedly there is no magic there to "explain" any of it. I stopped watching a playthrough, when this girl suddenly whipped out a gun out of the blue. So both of them were in grave danger practically all the time, she had a powerful weapon and somehow "forgot" to tell him about it? Sorry, but it's such a lazy writing.
last of us is such a storytelling masterpiece that most of the fan base especially the hardcore fan base doesn't even understand the message of the game(honestly the game isn't difficult to understand it's just amazing the fan base doesn't understand the message). Truly a masterpiece lololol. Also the gameplay is bad.
@@dankestmemes9843 "none of what you just said is valid in the slightest" How so? I just checked if my numbers are correct, and they seem to be. Joel starts as a father of a 12 year old daughter, so he is at least 30, but looks like he's in his mid-to-late thirties (more like 40, but whatever). 20 years later he's got to be almost sixty. He's a gramp! Hordes of zombies survive for a long time. They should die within a week after infection, simply because they can't sustain their body in any way, but they don't, due to convenience. The countryside should be perfectly safe, but it isn't. Due to convenience. Ellie draws out a hidden pistol in a cutscene, where she saves Joel's life. She kept it hidden despite all the trouble through which they both went, because the writers wanted this stupid cutscene to happen. It makes no sense as far as character motivations go, but it's a convenient plot device. Convenience, convenience and convenience? "Lazy writing" is a fair and well deserved verdict.
I've seen countless videos on the Witcher 3 and I frequently revisit them, but I have to say this is by far the best I've ever seen (and this isn't even a video game channel to boot). I'm blown away...I only regret not clicking on this video sooner...as someone who loves and recognizes the unique potential of video games as a medium, a heartfelt thank you.
My favorite RUclips channel does a video on my favorite video game of all time?? I tip my hat to you sir!! Another absolutely incredible video that perfectly captures why i love The Witcher 3 and this channel!!
Thanks a lot for focusing on the great stories outside of Films and TV. Because in my opinion great storytelling is great regardless of the medium. 'The Witcher 3' is definitely one of my favourite games of all time. I love the world, the voice acting, the dialogue system. Because it actually made me think about the decisions I make and especially about my 'Morals'. I absolutely Loved this video. Please explore more from different mediums like this. Thanks once again for doing this. Great job as usual. 👍
You made me tear up watching this. Thank you. You perfectly embodied why this game is my favorite game of all time, and after 2 years since completing it, you've inspired another completion of this masterpiece.
So glad you did this video. On my first play through I fell in love with this game. Unfortunately through trying to protect Ciri I got the most heartbreaking ending. So much into that moment. Also if anyone has not Heart of Stone is a must experience dlc
*Thank you.* As The Witcher superfan, who have basically spent my highschool years with books and the games trilogy, this video essay really hit close to home. If I may add my thoughts, I do believe Keira choices you mentioned are well done, because they prompt believable reaction of another being (Keira), and not just describe the result. If you demand the Alexander's notes from the start, not caring to start a conversation, of course she can be vindictive, because how desperate her situation is. Showing her your opinion and support leads to believable change of mind of the persecuted sorceress. Second thing is, I do have hope for Dying Light 2 take on moral issues. While last year's presentation has shown pretty binary choice to ilustrate the agency player has for the world, this year's E3 closed doors presentation left journalists positively impressed by tackling of choice-based narrative. It will not be Witcher 3 level, but I do believe it will stand on its own.
Wow, you covered Witcher 3 too huh!? I also see a fellow wolf armor wearer, nice! Great video on Witcher 3. I felt very proud of myself when I was able to get to the good ending with Ciri without knowing how it was going to go down. It made me feel like I played the role of father figure properly and made sure my child could succeed without my help. Witcher 3 was such an amazing journey and I'll definitely need to make time to play it again.
This essay in my opinion, speaks to the unmentionable quality and depth this masterpiece has achieved that easily puts it at the top. The game of a generation.
You couldn't have picked a better game to do this deep dive on. The Witcher 3 is my favorite game of all time, for all the reasons you just elaborated on and many more. Thank you so much for making this, really. I'm at a loss for words.
Amazing. Simply incredible piece. Actually had me in tears by the end. Thank you. Regrettable Virtual Behaviour: Going Darkside in Knights of the Old Republic 2. When I was younger, I didn't really care about all the murder and reckless slaughter, it was just a game. But when I replayed it more than a decade later I was HORRIFIED at the decisions a Darkside character was ''expected'' to make.... By the halfway point, I called it. I couldn't go full Darkside, she was ''Dark'' but had her limits, I couldn't go full on sadistic.
Love your videos, and you are easily the one creator on youtube whose content I look forward to and value most. More importantly, however, your videos have me walking away from the computer thinking about how I might be more considered, considerate, and thoughtful in my own endeavors. It's not often that someone finds good enjoyable inspiration to be a more thoughtful person, but your content achieves that for me. Thought you might like to know :)
I can't underestimate how much movies, cartoons, books and games ultimately shaped my moral compass. Besides my parents of course. Shows like Avatar, movies like The Treasure Planet, books like the hobbit and games like the witcher. They don't need to have a strong moral theme, but if they are made in a good way, bring somethin to learn from and don't force a particular opinion they help you shape your own mind and I am thankfull for that. movies, books and sometimes cartoons are now generally more acceptet in the public to try new things and to be a plattform to explore new ideas. Maybe sometime in the near future, video games will have their moment to shine for everyone.
My favorite film essay channel doing an essay on my favorite video game. This is such beautiful work you’ve done here. This was one of the first games I ever played when I found myself reflecting on events in the story within my playing of the game. There were a few missions that had me walking my character by the ocean, or in a quiet part of the forest, as I reflected on what I’d just experienced. It’s one of the games that changed the way I engage with video games in the first place, helped me enjoy even shallower or simpler ones on a deeper level, even if I have to do some of the creative immersion for fun whereas games like The Witcher immerse you effortlessly. One of the other games to do this to me in a meaningful way was Red Dead Redemption 2. In a different way. Turns of the story, even smaller, subtler character moments or conversations, often left me reflective on the way I was playing the game. Some turning points in the story also completely changed the way I played, made me change the nature of the main character as I played him. I loved that about it.
For sure I adopted some moral lessons from this game. One such lesson was leaving people to make their own choices while still supporting them. Not everything can be fixed or done by you for others. And this game taught me that in a subtle way.
In the first minute of the video I've thought that I can't watch it all, the voice was too slow, but after that mark, it changed from slow to calming. A great work and I really appreciate it, all of it, the structure, the voice, the music and audio. I don't comment on a lot of thing but this was astonishing. ❤
I've been following your channel for over a year now, and I gotta say I'm really glad you have given video games stories a chance of review. If you like story driven games I highly recommend you playing Nier and Drakengard series. I highly recommend you playing Ori and the blind forest and Ôkami too, these last two have a really different medium of telling a story mostly through visuals.
This has got to be my favorite video about The Witcher 3 ever. You nailed every points. Yes I totally agree about the moral system stuff. And Yes, how this game made was the reason why I loved it so much and is my favorite game ever. Especially at the ending of the game, the ending was not decided by you, it was decided by Ciri, which is also determined by the small things you did for her. That's the brilliance of it.
I just finished playing this for the first time this weekend. I couldn't believe that one of my favorite YT channels was covering it. I experienced some intense emotions - especially the resolution between Graham and Annabelle. I wept like I've definitely never wept from a video game. The tragedy was more bitter and heartbreaking than anything I could passive experience via film or TV because I brought Graham to his fate. Such a wonderful episode. I look forward to you continuing to explore these themes!
My man, I just want to say I appreciate the hell out of your videos. They're incredibly well made. You are a great storyteller. The way you approach each subject and devise the narrative points for what you want to discuss in each video is just amazing. And your use of epic emotional music to highlight the climax of each of your content videos is just incredibly well done. Thank you! I am on my way on becoming a videogame designer, I already have a couple of games tho and I trend the Narrative Designer role. Where I like to build the entire experience, with the player experience being completely tied to the story the game is telling. And your videos help me look at the deeper meaning of stories I loved. Thank you for that. I wish you the best!
One of my post-graduate classmates is doing her doctorate on gaming theory and education. THIS might be one of the deepest, most thoughtful essays on the impact of proper gaming I've ever seen. And it's three years old...well done.
You have shed new light in this game for me to experience the moral dilemmas in a new and intrinsic way. I would like to thank you for that very much. I appreciate it.
10:00 - This right here. The double sided failure is such a frustrating outcome. It makes one feel toyed with. Where you are being setup to fail. Or someone is sitting there, waiting to mock you for your choice. 11:11 - Quick moral judgement. I didn't realize how strong my quick morality was until I was trying to Roleplay an evil character in a group. I wrote this backstory where I was uncaring, possibly sadistic... but it all went out the window when I saw something *wrong*. I was trying to buy something off the blackmarket, negotiating for a lower price. I was nearly done negotiating, when my ally player pulled out his gun. I was alarmed! He aimed it at the drug dealer... I tackled him. I freaked out at how callously my ally was going to kill someone for no reason! My moral gut reaction overrode what I told myself about my character. At that moment, I decided to make my character good enough to match my own moral code. I could try and roleplay evil, but I wasn't skilled enough at that point.
I found you through your Grey video and was instantly interested. And oh my when I saw you'd also covered lord of the rings and the witcher one of my favourite games I had to instantly click. This has to be if not one of my favourite but my favourite analysis on this subject. I've never super consciously thought about moral reflection in games but juat having it pointed out really does make it instantly click. I really hope that over time more people are willing to give these types of games a try so they can experience this, it may not be for everyone but I'm certainly glad it's here.
The philosophy and points in your videos go down like a nice cold drink on a hot day, in contrast to the countless other videos on youtube pushing their philosophy and views on you like its some sort of mental workout. Love your videos
The Witcher 3 is one of my memories I want to erase along with The Lord of the Rings so I can experience it again for the first time.. To those who have not played this game, do yourself a favor.
Funny...I'm getting older and am going thru the realization that my steel trap memory is fading...the one silver lining in this is how I can experience things for (almost) the first time again. I just played TW3 again for the first time since 2015 and 70% was unremembered. One good thing about aging I guess.
5:12 made me think about my own experiences with games like dayz where I rarely can put myself to killing someone on sight because when I do I always feel extremely uncomfortable for what I did. I've always wondered why that is. I always find myself trying to befriend everyone.
This game changed my mindset. I was truly able to immerse into the world of the witcher. Never had such an experience before, im glad that there are others who had the their own unique experiences :)
Your video is 25:41, but I wished that it could be much longer because I enjoyed every second of it. The points are brilliant, the voice is good, and most importantly, you understood the witcher and how similar it is to our lives. It is and by far the best game ever made.
You are an incredible content creator and these words cannot even remotely describe how much I'm blown away by your videos every single time. Sheer awe. You're truly in-credible. I don't know what else to say.
Not just a thumbs-up. Saved to my favorites. Loved your channel already, and then you had to go and remind me why TW3 is my favorite game of all time. Brilliant work, man. Keep it up.
I haven't played the game myself, but this level of thoughtfullness and insight on media, videogames included, is what encouraged me to finally add to your patreon. Please keep up the good work.
Just... Damn. I'm playing through Blood and Wine right now. This game is incredible. I got the ending where Geralt gives Ciri a sword and they go in to be witchers together. When you were talking about how each person's choices in small moments of the game are what affect the ending it gave me chills. I love your videos and the way you break down these different kinds of media. Thank you!
I appreciate your treatment here. The Witcher is far more than a mere game - it is true art, and as such, can be a powerful teacher. Thank you for your dedication to the art of storytelling, both in your creations, and in your choice of subjects.
I absolutely loved this! Ive been a sub for a long time but I want to say now that you are my favorite! Your videos are dripping with passion and analytical excellence. Each one is a gift. Thank you!
Thank you for doing this, you beautiful gentleman! I don't think any other videogame had an impact on me the way this one did. Almost teared up at the end there. Just when I thought I couldn't appreciate this channel more!
Though I don't play very many video games anymore, your video essay made me remember that a player a few years ago was able to beat Fallout 4 without killing anyone. From what I remember about the story, even the game's designers did not know it was possible to navigate the post-apocalyptic game without resorting to lethal violence. Thank you again for making such wonderful videos. Keep up the good work!
Mass Effect 3 Omega DLC deals with some of this problem by putting you in high pressure decisions with timers. It made making the moral choice a lot harder and was very cool
This reminds me of losing Cortana as Master Chief in Halo 4. First time I ever cried playing as a video game. The voice accompanying my childhood protagonist was suddenly gone and the quietness in the missions after you lose her are haunting.
This is truly the the most beautiful game I've ever seen... Fun fact, I've never actually played it due to not having a good enough PC for running it, but watched the game movies for it so many times and dug so deep into it's lore that I've got to love it so much, feel a connection to that world, it's characters, their lives and experiences. It's a work of art in the whole sense that I hope one day I'll be able to experience it first hand and hopefully it will be like "the first time" and having "spoiled" the story won't spoil the experience... Thanks for doing this video, homage to this work of art of a game! 🖤
You definitely explained this aspect of the Witcher very well. I believe this aspect can be found in many RPGs, as you have said in your LOTR videos, "a fairy tale makes a good moral story". The consequences of your actions are reinforced further when using the "import save game" feature. When you continue to play off of the same game, it shows the lasting effects from your choices.
I haven't played Witcher III; I had seen another essay on the empathetic and moral complications of the abusive husband looking for his wife. I didn't realise how deeply woven this was in the entire games narrative; its the everyday decisions that make you who you are, and affect the world around you. There is no 1 decision, no big bad to solve the world's problems you just have to keep going and being the best you can be. So thank you for exploring such a rich narrative and showing that the decisions we make matter, and we can be better for it.
As an Indie Game Developer who already found great value in your channel, I just wanted to say I immensely appreciate this video. You are a gem my friend.
Great video! It gave me a new and deeper appreciation of my favorite game. Especially the main plotline and its ending(s), which I initially liked very much but considered far from the strongest aspect of the game.
What (moments in) videogames made you reflect on moral issues? Let me know below!
The Last of Us! Exploring the relativism in moral decision-making (especially as it relates to killing, death, and lying) and the gray nature of good and evil in human beings!
Also, the ability of video games to immerse the audience in the story more so than any other medium. For instance, by the end of "Horizon: Zero Dawn" I took it as a personal affront every time someone would refer to Aloy (as being controlled by me) as "girl," even though I'm a guy.
Deus Ex: Human Revolution. In games where taking enemies out non-lethally is an option, I always take the non-lethal path. I was sneaking around an area, incapacitating these gang members. I got to the third floor or so of a building, and I realized I could break through a wall if I had some explosives. So I tossed the c4 or whatever, detonated it; and there was a person on the other side of the wall that I had no idea was there. He died in the blast. I felt horrible! I had to pause the game a moment and think about what I had done! I had no intention of killing anyone! I still reflect back on it to this day. I have many stories about games making me question morality, making me feel emotion.
For me it was the dilemma with Paarthurnax in Skyrim
Spec Ops: The Line. Really made me question (for the first time) the morality of depicting violence/war for the sake of the player's satiafaction...
Oh, may be Detroit: Become Human, great game and history...
I mostly agree, however what I would say is that if you got the 'bad' ending in the game, which I personally didn't, it comes down to you being overprotective of Ciri. I really think it's wrong to be overprotective of her, but I understand why many players might have been, so I do empathise with those who got the 'bad' ending. I think this is what makes the game really stand out for me: there's not a bad ending but a tragic ending, the ending resulting from you acting in the wrong way but with the best of intentions.
I think the game tries to tempt you into believing you're both responsible for her and stronger than her, but it's her playable flashbacks are there primarily to clue you in to the fact that she's actually stronger than you and an independent adult.
That's one part of why I treated Ciri like an independent adult, because the game presented her as not only responsible and mature, but equal to Geralt in combat ability. And not only that, but her Elder Blood gave Ciri a much more powerful edge against her foes that no other characters had. In those moments when she was clearly frustrated and hurting, to me I felt that supporting her would benefit her both immediately and in the long run, and the other options honestly felt patronizing of her.
Now when I say that I don't mean to insult the people who chose the more protective options, because as you said, it's completely understandable why people would want to be protective of her, considering what she went through when Geralt wasn't around to give her a helping hand. Even though she is a powerful warrior with a sharp mind, she still made it out of all those horrible situations by the skin of her teeth (even with the help of friends and strangers alike). And no one playing would ever want to put her in situations like that again if they couldn't help it. The irony being that Geralt CAN help it, since he takes her to confront the crones again, search for more answers about her lineage, and in the final confrontation with the Wild Hunt to emerge victorious. Both are strong on their own, but when together they're nearly unstoppable.
But the other reason that made me want to give my full support during her times of need is a bit funny. In many books and movies and whatnot, whenever the young prodigy (like Ciri) is constantly being patronized and overly protected (in addition to the obvious and sometimes not-so-obvious sycophants that just want to use them for their own gain), it usually leads to disaster. I felt that would happen if I tried to order her around and give her misguided moments of 'tough love.' I know those are far removed when weighing my options in the game's moments of choice, but I can't help but think of wanting to the break the cycle of cliches like the 'Prodigy Dilemma' I spontaneously invented during my proofread of this comment; especially in a game that brilliantly subverts the typical fantasy tropes that usually plague other games and such.
The problem is that the choices arent consistent. It punishes you for being overprotective of her when you accompany her to see the witches, thats fine, my only problem with that is that there will be those who took that choice just to see the dialogue rather than to protect her, since the witcher 3 has really good dialogue.
My main issue is that it does this and then also wants you to coddle her like a child and punishes you when you tell her to calm down when shes being overly emotional or when you tell her she cant be good at everything instead of trying to distract her from her woes.
Does the game want me to act like shes a capable adult or does it want me to pamper her?
@@sernoddicusthegallant6986 Well, the good thing is, you don't have too get it 100% "right". More like 80%, I think. A few minor "misjudgements" might be forgiven in the end. At least as far as her survival goes. I still had to replay about a third of the game however, since one difference (Empress Cirilla or Witcher Ciri) seemed to rely on one single decision. And my Witcher Gerald did care a little less for what might be good for the rest of the world (Empress Cirilla) and cared more about Ciri's happyness (on the path).
A tragic ending is the best ending, most fitting and mature as i see it. No witcher has ever died in his own bed.
I do not agree, ciri is inmature and weak compared to geralt (no signals, potions, mutations)
-she gets angry if geralt acepts ehmyr coin when she knows about the financial troubles of witchers
-she gets angry and imprudent about avenging vesemir (ridiculous how geralt agreed on that, and how they won that imposible battle without consequences)
-she gets angry and wants to destroy avalach's lab just bcause her jealous gf bitch her, she already knew avalach wanted bcs her blood, he never was trying to lie
-she gets manipulated by the circus people, notice in that quest how the man instanly refuses geralt proposes, he is a scum criminal :/
I do not like ciri's character and i think it is stupid that the main story is satisgy her caprichos in order to not get her suicided
The Witcher 3 is the best gaming experience I've ever had. This video feels like home.
True, i have played RDR2, bloodborne and nier automata, still don't match the glory of witcher for me.
@@ericnick4498 You can be a fanboy and a realist at the same time. Let him have his opinion and stop being childish.
@raserianfald FELLOW DANE!!!!
@@ericnick4498
Oof hater got hate, ironic
OMG! When I thought I Could not adore your content more than a 100%, here you drop THE Witcher 3 to raise the bar. Thank you.
Same here.
I spend atleast 4-5 hours a day most days watching RUclips, I subscribe and follow many creators all whom I respect and idolize and love the personality of, but if I'm honest with my self I don't think I've ever come across a content creator such as yourself who articulates their opinions and ideas so well and makes such emotionally and powerfully driven videos, you have such a way with words and choice of background music that every video of yours is pure gold to me and I get unbelievably excited every time you've released something new, and the fact that you've now made a video about a game ( especially one that I love ) and sound like you may do more in the future has me so happy. Thanks for all you do because us fans and followers appreciate it, and you greatly.
Interesting video as always.
Just realized that Witcher 3 might have been the first Triple A Dad Simulator.
As the father of an 11yo Ibhave raised by myself, I couldn't agree more. When he talked about Ciri's outcome being linked to the confidence you instilled in her, I pretty much lost it.
Ken levine stares, angrily
last of us?
@Wucci Mane the Ending with Witcher-Ciri was my first playthrough and the only time in my life that a game made me cry. It was just perfect (by that point i followed the books and games for more than half of my life)
No that would be The Last of Us
I played the Witcher 3 shortly after my wife miscarried and almost lost her own life in the process. I remember playing the questline with the Baron and his deceased child, and how its narrative and telling broke me, then it put some steel in me, it helped me look at my own situation and take control of it with agency, and not to lament in the pity and pain of life lost, my wive's pain and wrestling with letting go of motherhood.
I almost cried my man. Thank you for this.
yeah me too..
no I don't cry, you cry!
@A me too...
Fucking invisible ninjas cutting onions...
The thing with Witcher video games is that they are based on a series of masterfully written books by Andrzej Sapkowski. The moral grayness you speak of is also one of key the aspects that can be found there, alongside the characters that are imbued with realistic identity, sense of morality, relationships with other characters etc. Without that kind of basis, I doubt the Witcher video games would be what they are now. All in all, I would strongly encourage everyone to read the books to get the full picture.
Thanks for posting, book 1 on the way.
One might argue that every story Sapkowski wrote about the Witcher is a morality puzzle. The speech in the very first short story about the lesser evil acts as the mission statement, not because it's true, but because Geralt must forever choose between evils. And the hardest part is discerning which is the lesser. As often as not, he chooses the greater evil thinking it's the lesser, or trying to avoid choosing. Sometimes, not choosing at all is choosing the greater evil.
Man…fuck the Netflix series.
Having a daughter and absolutely loving this game and the relationship between Ciri and Geralt, I tear up every time I think about even losing Ciri. That scene (you guys know which one) always gets me. When I saw the even the clips in this video, I teared up. I adore this game and truly enjoyed the points you extrapolated concerning moral decisions. Well done.
Don't mention it... I was broken... The scene is playing right now in my head !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A+ this game
Cool to see that you are taking on video game ground too.
A perfect example of what excellence both RUclips and video game discussion are capable of being.
wow a film youtuber who thinks of videogames as a form of art on the same level as film and television. just when I thought I couldn't love your content more!
You know you have succeeded as a person (and a content creator) when your voice already triggers soothing and happiness in one's listener, and how their throat will constrict and vision will blur when you show and/or talk about emotional moments.
Thank you, dear Narrator, for your work.
Thank you! That's great to hear :)
It's interesting how deeply these virtual characters can make us feel... I like to think I'm a pretty grounded older gamer, but there have been a couple of times where a game made me feel more that I expected. I tried sitting back and thinking about whether it was a combination of voice acting, the quality of the written dialogue, the experience of playing through the game and visual elements of character design - but always came back to the conclusion that while those were indeed aspects of why I felt what I was feeling, they did not constitute the entire response. It was not because of a combination of designed and constructed things tricked me for a few minutes into having a pang of guilt, or a rush of joy - it was just because the journey had absorbed me to the point where the virtual nature of these people no longer mattered. They crossed that line that any fictional character on a page or in a movie might, where that barrier is gone and they are real to us at an emotional level and their unreal nature no longer matters.
So in one game I felt nausating guilt at having done what the game had wanted me to do to save the world, but in doing so I had become another man who abandoned (however unintentionally) a woman that had always been abandoned by others. I promised to come back and didn't - not that Mass Effect 3 gave me the choice at all. And it absolutely broke my heart. I'd completed the game, I'd won, but felt hollow and defeated because of it, with no sense of accomplishment and zero desire to experience that feeling again. And in another game - the one you discussed here so wonderfully - I felt so much pride in not my efforts to resolve the world's problems, but in my daughter's. It still makes me feel that swell of pride in Ciri's actions to this day. And neither of these people were real. It's a testament to what goes into this medium, that is so often considered lightweight, throwaway entertainment... I can't wait to find out which game will reach the high waterwark of The Witcher 3 for storytelling in the medium.
You romanced Jack? It really is heartbreaking when you think about it that way.
Your videos never fail to imspire me! You exploration into human empathy is what impresses me most. You are a very unique creator with content of great quailty! Thank you for all the effort you put into your work!
Absolutely beautiful!!! Your words, choice of music and scenes you displayed between Geralt and Ciri brought me to tears. Thank you for reminding me how much I love this game and why it's my favourite game of all time!
One of my favorite movies channel talks about one of my favorite games...life is good 🙏
I played all the Dragon Age series, but not Witcher. it seems that this game is epic beyond reproach.
@@Jjrmtv True, when it comes to lore Dragon Age is a pretty good comparison. The story of the Witcher 3 is a bit deeper than DA Origins but both have their own advantages. Origins still the best DA
@@GamingKick Origins is the best game I ever played...but I haven't played Witcher yet. I do enjoy the choices your character make determines the outcome. It gives the game complexity, depth and a meaningful experience. One feels connected with their virtual companions.
@@Jjrmtv So true. Origins did such a great job building the world and characters. But Witcher 3 improved that even more...I wish I could play it for the first time again.
Man, I never realized how much I love these characters, just seeing Geralt and Ciri together again brought me to tears.
A favorite philosopher of mine writing an essay for a favorite game of mine? Thank you for this Father's Day Gift :)
My friend, I don't know your name but I know something else : You are a beautiful human being.
Whatever motivated you to start this channel, I'm really grateful it happened.
I'm watching some of your old videos again (the 4 archetypes right now), they are guides through my personal journey. I'm convinced you're making the world a better place with this quality of content and insights... Thank you
A french frie(nd)
If you are interested in games capacity to engage the players empathy, search in youtube for:
Telling stories with systems - Mark Brown
Morality in Games - Mark Brown
LSOO: Thanks for the hardwork that went into this, and looking forward to your future discussions about the interactive medium
Thankyou for laying out just why The Witcher 3 is so amazing.
Also, #TeamYen - your betrayal cuts deep 😂
Haha for what it's worth, I went with Yen on my first playthrough ;)
Kinda miss threesomes in witcher
@@karbut4135 yeah CDPR was like* players will try to have threesome with triss and yen we already let them have alot lets not let them have this one cuz we're EVIL BOO HA HA HA HA HA* XD
You can’t read the books and not choose Yen.
Everytime when I start to think about Witcher series, how I will replay them one last time (for now) before C2077, moves me somehow. That sentimental attachment to piece of art and its every element. And now your video appeared before starting my Witcher marathon... Wonderfull analysis, wonderfull video. Thank you:)
Your work is outstanding and necessary, it's amazing the fact that you can express with words those things and ideas that many of us intuitively already know but are unable to explain due to the lack of vocabulary or knowledge of terminology. Most of us reflect on whatever you are explaining as something we know deep inside but we can't find a propper way of translating into words. You venturing into videogames territory is something I was looking forward to, and you started with probably the best single player RPG ever made.
I definitely agree, videos like this are important, there's so much going on in this game that many players just can't express it, I've seen it multiple times and they just love this game without really understanding or knowing how to tell someone why.
I definitely agree, videos like this are important, there's so much going on in this game that many players just can't express it, I've seen it multiple times and they just love this game without really understanding or knowing how to tell someone why.
This is awesome, going into video game territory! I can't wait for your analysis of "The Last of Us!"
I had trouble getting into it, because the setting is so silly. The main character got to be sixty or so, he looks like a forty and acts like a much younger man still. Zombies survived without food and water for 20 years and supposedly there is no magic there to "explain" any of it.
I stopped watching a playthrough, when this girl suddenly whipped out a gun out of the blue. So both of them were in grave danger practically all the time, she had a powerful weapon and somehow "forgot" to tell him about it?
Sorry, but it's such a lazy writing.
last of us is such a storytelling masterpiece that most of the fan base especially the hardcore fan base doesn't even understand the message of the game(honestly the game isn't difficult to understand it's just amazing the fan base doesn't understand the message). Truly a masterpiece lololol. Also the gameplay is bad.
Yes, just yes.
@@bakters none of what you just said is valid in the slightest
@@dankestmemes9843 "none of what you just said is valid in the slightest"
How so? I just checked if my numbers are correct, and they seem to be. Joel starts as a father of a 12 year old daughter, so he is at least 30, but looks like he's in his mid-to-late thirties (more like 40, but whatever). 20 years later he's got to be almost sixty.
He's a gramp!
Hordes of zombies survive for a long time. They should die within a week after infection, simply because they can't sustain their body in any way, but they don't, due to convenience. The countryside should be perfectly safe, but it isn't. Due to convenience.
Ellie draws out a hidden pistol in a cutscene, where she saves Joel's life. She kept it hidden despite all the trouble through which they both went, because the writers wanted this stupid cutscene to happen. It makes no sense as far as character motivations go, but it's a convenient plot device.
Convenience, convenience and convenience? "Lazy writing" is a fair and well deserved verdict.
I've seen countless videos on the Witcher 3 and I frequently revisit them, but I have to say this is by far the best I've ever seen (and this isn't even a video game channel to boot). I'm blown away...I only regret not clicking on this video sooner...as someone who loves and recognizes the unique potential of video games as a medium, a heartfelt thank you.
My favorite RUclips channel does a video on my favorite video game of all time?? I tip my hat to you sir!! Another absolutely incredible video that perfectly captures why i love The Witcher 3 and this channel!!
Just got this game a week ago, and it's amazing how deep it goes, and I'm only level 14.
My favourite game. And you're quickly becoming one of my favourite channels, keep it up.
Thanks a lot for focusing on the great stories outside of Films and TV. Because in my opinion great storytelling is great regardless of the medium.
'The Witcher 3' is definitely one of my favourite games of all time. I love the world, the voice acting, the dialogue system. Because it actually made me think about the decisions I make and especially about my 'Morals'.
I absolutely Loved this video. Please explore more from different mediums like this. Thanks once again for doing this. Great job as usual. 👍
You made me tear up watching this.
Thank you.
You perfectly embodied why this game is my favorite game of all time, and after 2 years since completing it, you've inspired another completion of this masterpiece.
Omg! Yes my favorite RUclips channel and my favorite game together!
I ran out of a wedding reception to watch this. Surely this will be the last I get an invitation
Exactly what I thought!
So glad you did this video. On my first play through I fell in love with this game. Unfortunately through trying to protect Ciri I got the most heartbreaking ending. So much into that moment. Also if anyone has not Heart of Stone is a must experience dlc
This is one of the best video game essays I've ever seen. Bravo, man.
*Thank you.*
As The Witcher superfan, who have basically spent my highschool years with books and the games trilogy, this video essay really hit close to home.
If I may add my thoughts, I do believe Keira choices you mentioned are well done, because they prompt believable reaction of another being (Keira), and not just describe the result. If you demand the Alexander's notes from the start, not caring to start a conversation, of course she can be vindictive, because how desperate her situation is. Showing her your opinion and support leads to believable change of mind of the persecuted sorceress.
Second thing is, I do have hope for Dying Light 2 take on moral issues. While last year's presentation has shown pretty binary choice to ilustrate the agency player has for the world, this year's E3 closed doors presentation left journalists positively impressed by tackling of choice-based narrative. It will not be Witcher 3 level, but I do believe it will stand on its own.
Wow, you covered Witcher 3 too huh!? I also see a fellow wolf armor wearer, nice! Great video on Witcher 3. I felt very proud of myself when I was able to get to the good ending with Ciri without knowing how it was going to go down. It made me feel like I played the role of father figure properly and made sure my child could succeed without my help. Witcher 3 was such an amazing journey and I'll definitely need to make time to play it again.
This essay in my opinion, speaks to the unmentionable quality and depth this masterpiece has achieved that easily puts it at the top. The game of a generation.
WOW Congrats for doing something different and out of the box. GREAT CONTENT MAN!!
You couldn't have picked a better game to do this deep dive on. The Witcher 3 is my favorite game of all time, for all the reasons you just elaborated on and many more. Thank you so much for making this, really. I'm at a loss for words.
Amazing. Simply incredible piece. Actually had me in tears by the end. Thank you.
Regrettable Virtual Behaviour: Going Darkside in Knights of the Old Republic 2. When I was younger, I didn't really care about all the murder and reckless slaughter, it was just a game. But when I replayed it more than a decade later I was HORRIFIED at the decisions a Darkside character was ''expected'' to make.... By the halfway point, I called it. I couldn't go full Darkside, she was ''Dark'' but had her limits, I couldn't go full on sadistic.
This is sooo good in many levels. What a fine work. You got my eyes welling up.
Your content is changing my life as am going trough a burnout your content is helping me to recover thank you so much!
Love your videos, and you are easily the one creator on youtube whose content I look forward to and value most. More importantly, however, your videos have me walking away from the computer thinking about how I might be more considered, considerate, and thoughtful in my own endeavors. It's not often that someone finds good enjoyable inspiration to be a more thoughtful person, but your content achieves that for me. Thought you might like to know :)
Kreia from KOTOR 2 made me question morality.
Love your videos btw.
One of my favorite characters of all time. Be it books, cinema, or video games.
Kreia is extremely well written. What a joy this game is.
Completing KOTOR 2 gave me 2+ intelligence.
I can't underestimate how much movies, cartoons, books and games ultimately shaped my moral compass. Besides my parents of course.
Shows like Avatar, movies like The Treasure Planet, books like the hobbit and games like the witcher.
They don't need to have a strong moral theme, but if they are made in a good way, bring somethin to learn from and don't force a particular opinion they help you shape your own mind and I am thankfull for that.
movies, books and sometimes cartoons are now generally more acceptet in the public to try new things and to be a plattform to explore new ideas. Maybe sometime in the near future, video games will have their moment to shine for everyone.
Your work just never stops to amaze me. Greetings and a big thank you sir, from Serbia
My favorite film essay channel doing an essay on my favorite video game. This is such beautiful work you’ve done here.
This was one of the first games I ever played when I found myself reflecting on events in the story within my playing of the game. There were a few missions that had me walking my character by the ocean, or in a quiet part of the forest, as I reflected on what I’d just experienced. It’s one of the games that changed the way I engage with video games in the first place, helped me enjoy even shallower or simpler ones on a deeper level, even if I have to do some of the creative immersion for fun whereas games like The Witcher immerse you effortlessly.
One of the other games to do this to me in a meaningful way was Red Dead Redemption 2. In a different way. Turns of the story, even smaller, subtler character moments or conversations, often left me reflective on the way I was playing the game. Some turning points in the story also completely changed the way I played, made me change the nature of the main character as I played him. I loved that about it.
LSOO doing a Witcher 3 video???? I never clicked so fast!!!!
For sure I adopted some moral lessons from this game. One such lesson was leaving people to make their own choices while still supporting them. Not everything can be fixed or done by you for others. And this game taught me that in a subtle way.
Just wow dude. Amazing, I wasn't expecting this topic. I love this game. I'm playing it again with the expansions.
I feel better now, and I particularly needed to, after hearing what you had to address for your brilliant review. Thank you very much. 👍🏻
In the first minute of the video I've thought that I can't watch it all, the voice was too slow, but after that mark, it changed from slow to calming. A great work and I really appreciate it, all of it, the structure, the voice, the music and audio. I don't comment on a lot of thing but this was astonishing. ❤
I've been following your channel for over a year now, and I gotta say I'm really glad you have given video games stories a chance of review.
If you like story driven games I highly recommend you playing Nier and Drakengard series.
I highly recommend you playing Ori and the blind forest and Ôkami too, these last two have a really different medium of telling a story mostly through visuals.
*Cyberpunk 2077 will, indeed, be breathtaking*
*You're breathtaking*
@@manfrom20xx13 *you're breathtaking*
Aged like milk
@@rituraajdatta2132 I think It will, eventually, be breathtaking. Let me guess , you preorder the game?
@@Hououin_Kyoma it truly is breathtaking
I can never finish your videos. Your voice is just too soothing as if you're intentionally putting me to sleep
This has got to be my favorite video about The Witcher 3 ever. You nailed every points.
Yes I totally agree about the moral system stuff. And Yes, how this game made was the reason why I loved it so much and is my favorite game ever. Especially at the ending of the game, the ending was not decided by you, it was decided by Ciri, which is also determined by the small things you did for her. That's the brilliance of it.
I just finished playing this for the first time this weekend. I couldn't believe that one of my favorite YT channels was covering it. I experienced some intense emotions - especially the resolution between Graham and Annabelle. I wept like I've definitely never wept from a video game. The tragedy was more bitter and heartbreaking than anything I could passive experience via film or TV because I brought Graham to his fate. Such a wonderful episode. I look forward to you continuing to explore these themes!
My man, I just want to say I appreciate the hell out of your videos. They're incredibly well made. You are a great storyteller. The way you approach each subject and devise the narrative points for what you want to discuss in each video is just amazing. And your use of epic emotional music to highlight the climax of each of your content videos is just incredibly well done. Thank you! I am on my way on becoming a videogame designer, I already have a couple of games tho and I trend the Narrative Designer role. Where I like to build the entire experience, with the player experience being completely tied to the story the game is telling. And your videos help me look at the deeper meaning of stories I loved. Thank you for that. I wish you the best!
I honestly wish I could have this in pdf, such a marvelous work you did here.
One of my post-graduate classmates is doing her doctorate on gaming theory and education. THIS might be one of the deepest, most thoughtful essays on the impact of proper gaming I've ever seen. And it's three years old...well done.
You have shed new light in this game for me to experience the moral dilemmas in a new and intrinsic way. I would like to thank you for that very much. I appreciate it.
10:00 - This right here. The double sided failure is such a frustrating outcome. It makes one feel toyed with. Where you are being setup to fail. Or someone is sitting there, waiting to mock you for your choice.
11:11 - Quick moral judgement. I didn't realize how strong my quick morality was until I was trying to Roleplay an evil character in a group. I wrote this backstory where I was uncaring, possibly sadistic... but it all went out the window when I saw something *wrong*. I was trying to buy something off the blackmarket, negotiating for a lower price. I was nearly done negotiating, when my ally player pulled out his gun. I was alarmed! He aimed it at the drug dealer... I tackled him. I freaked out at how callously my ally was going to kill someone for no reason! My moral gut reaction overrode what I told myself about my character. At that moment, I decided to make my character good enough to match my own moral code. I could try and roleplay evil, but I wasn't skilled enough at that point.
I have looked long and hard for a video that breaks down the moral philosophies of the Witcher 3. Cant say this enough, very well done.
just got this video randomly recommended to me by RUclips
wow, i have no idea what your channel even is about, but im on board with you
subscribed :D
Same just came here as soon i see witcher 3 video and wow love it
Like Stories Of Old has a voice of a Super-Villain planning an evil Scheme. But instead makes video essays as a side hobby 😂. (Great video Btw)
Operation Evil Scheme isn't going as fast as I'd hoped, so gotta have something to do ;)
@@LikeStoriesofOld XD XD XD
He responds!!!!
Of course. I picture him stroking his fluffy white cat as he speaks.
I found you through your Grey video and was instantly interested. And oh my when I saw you'd also covered lord of the rings and the witcher one of my favourite games I had to instantly click. This has to be if not one of my favourite but my favourite analysis on this subject. I've never super consciously thought about moral reflection in games but juat having it pointed out really does make it instantly click. I really hope that over time more people are willing to give these types of games a try so they can experience this, it may not be for everyone but I'm certainly glad it's here.
The philosophy and points in your videos go down like a nice cold drink on a hot day, in contrast to the countless other videos on youtube pushing their philosophy and views on you like its some sort of mental workout. Love your videos
Dude, you're voice is so melodic...Love it, and your channel too!!
Thank you for venturing into the world of gaming with your videos. There are many games with underrated stories that more need to know about.
This is the best Witcher 3 documentary ever! Great job man!
The Witcher 3 is one of my memories I want to erase along with The Lord of the Rings so I can experience it again for the first time.. To those who have not played this game, do yourself a favor.
Funny...I'm getting older and am going thru the realization that my steel trap memory is fading...the one silver lining in this is how I can experience things for (almost) the first time again. I just played TW3 again for the first time since 2015 and 70% was unremembered. One good thing about aging I guess.
A God of War (2018) video from you would be amazing
5:12 made me think about my own experiences with games like dayz where I rarely can put myself to killing someone on sight because when I do I always feel extremely uncomfortable for what I did. I've always wondered why that is. I always find myself trying to befriend everyone.
This game changed my mindset. I was truly able to immerse into the world of the witcher. Never had such an experience before, im glad that there are others who had the their own unique experiences :)
Your video is 25:41, but I wished that it could be much longer because I enjoyed every second of it. The points are brilliant, the voice is good, and most importantly, you understood the witcher and how similar it is to our lives. It is and by far the best game ever made.
You are an incredible content creator and these words cannot even remotely describe how much I'm blown away by your videos every single time. Sheer awe. You're truly in-credible. I don't know what else to say.
Not just a thumbs-up. Saved to my favorites. Loved your channel already, and then you had to go and remind me why TW3 is my favorite game of all time. Brilliant work, man. Keep it up.
That was beautiful in so many ways. Dude i love your videos. You find the perfect words to describe what everyone feels. PLS KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!
I haven't played the game myself, but this level of thoughtfullness and insight on media, videogames included, is what encouraged me to finally add to your patreon. Please keep up the good work.
Just... Damn.
I'm playing through Blood and Wine right now. This game is incredible. I got the ending where Geralt gives Ciri a sword and they go in to be witchers together. When you were talking about how each person's choices in small moments of the game are what affect the ending it gave me chills.
I love your videos and the way you break down these different kinds of media. Thank you!
in 26 minutes you theorize something that could be in any Humanistics or Artistics PhD essay. Congratulations, you have great content
I appreciate your treatment here. The Witcher is far more than a mere game - it is true art, and as such, can be a powerful teacher. Thank you for your dedication to the art of storytelling, both in your creations, and in your choice of subjects.
I absolutely loved this! Ive been a sub for a long time but I want to say now that you are my favorite! Your videos are dripping with passion and analytical excellence. Each one is a gift. Thank you!
Hitting like before I even watch it! Love your work brother
That's right, this gentleman can´t do no bad.
Thank you for doing this, you beautiful gentleman! I don't think any other videogame had an impact on me the way this one did. Almost teared up at the end there. Just when I thought I couldn't appreciate this channel more!
So much care and though was put into this video, I'm amazed by the quality of your content
Though I don't play very many video games anymore, your video essay made me remember that a player a few years ago was able to beat Fallout 4 without killing anyone. From what I remember about the story, even the game's designers did not know it was possible to navigate the post-apocalyptic game without resorting to lethal violence.
Thank you again for making such wonderful videos. Keep up the good work!
Mass Effect 3 Omega DLC deals with some of this problem by putting you in high pressure decisions with timers. It made making the moral choice a lot harder and was very cool
This reminds me of losing Cortana as Master Chief in Halo 4. First time I ever cried playing as a video game. The voice accompanying my childhood protagonist was suddenly gone and the quietness in the missions after you lose her are haunting.
Perfectly describes why this is my favorite game. Excellent work!
This is truly the the most beautiful game I've ever seen...
Fun fact, I've never actually played it due to not having a good enough PC for running it, but watched the game movies for it so many times and dug so deep into it's lore that I've got to love it so much, feel a connection to that world, it's characters, their lives and experiences.
It's a work of art in the whole sense that I hope one day I'll be able to experience it first hand and hopefully it will be like "the first time" and having "spoiled" the story won't spoil the experience...
Thanks for doing this video, homage to this work of art of a game! 🖤
FANTASTIC video! Thanks for taking the time to put something like this together. Keep up the great work!
You definitely explained this aspect of the Witcher very well. I believe this aspect can be found in many RPGs, as you have said in your LOTR videos, "a fairy tale makes a good moral story". The consequences of your actions are reinforced further when using the "import save game" feature. When you continue to play off of the same game, it shows the lasting effects from your choices.
I haven't played Witcher III; I had seen another essay on the empathetic and moral complications of the abusive husband looking for his wife. I didn't realise how deeply woven this was in the entire games narrative; its the everyday decisions that make you who you are, and affect the world around you. There is no 1 decision, no big bad to solve the world's problems you just have to keep going and being the best you can be. So thank you for exploring such a rich narrative and showing that the decisions we make matter, and we can be better for it.
One of the best immersion analyses I've seen. Great job.
What an eloquently made video on how nuanced and beautiful The Witcher III is. Well done :).
Witcher 3 is definitely in my top 3 games of all time. I never replay games but I am tempted to after watching this.
As an Indie Game Developer who already found great value in your channel, I just wanted to say I immensely appreciate this video. You are a gem my friend.
Great video! It gave me a new and deeper appreciation of my favorite game. Especially the main plotline and its ending(s), which I initially liked very much but considered far from the strongest aspect of the game.