10 Worst Video Game Downgrades That Pissed Off EVERYONE
6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
When Witcher 3 was first teased throughout 2013/14, jaws dropped.
The series already had a huge fan base, but new heads were starting to turn Geralt's way thanks to gorgeous pre-release presentations.
Roach kicked up dust as she galloped across the plains, sunlight cascaded beautifully down through the treeline (I'm a sucker for lighting effects), and all manner of snowflakes, burning embers, and myriad natural particulates infused the air with detail and character.
Speaking of character, Geralt himself and the various allies and NPCs were crystal sharp, showcased light and shadow to die for, and hair and clothing effects which were remarkable at the time.
But, yeah, you guessed it...
Come launch, we saw stripped-back lighting and particle effects, a more muted colour palette, vastly reduced weather effects and visuals, the list goes on...
Credit where it is due, CD Projekt Red have tackled the controversy head on, explaining that, at the point it was first shown off, W3 was nowhere near completion.
Much was still to be added, so the graphics HAD to take a hit in order for the game to actually run.
Moreover, the engine they went with ensured the game still looked beautiful in both day and night time scenes.
Fair play, actually...