Deal | “The best single-player card game of all time” – Card RPG set in the Witcher universe now 80% off for $4 on Steam
In Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales, players step into the shoes of Queen Meve, ruler of Lyria and Rivia, offering a fresh perspective on the Witcher universe. Set before Geralt’s saga, Meve is drawn into the brutal Nilfgaardian War – with far more at stake than her own survival. The roughly 30-hour single-player campaign is steeped in Witcher lore and shaped by meaningful choices that lead to one of over 20 different endings.
While Thronebreaker incorporates familiar RPG elements, its core revolves around Gwent – the card game known from the Witcher series – now enhanced with narrative depth and strategic variety. Players manage a mobile camp, recruit allies and confront Nilfgaard’s forces in card-based battles. Instead of traditional stats like strength or intelligence, the game focuses on building and refining your deck. New cards can be crafted, skills upgraded and strategies adjusted. Key companions appear as powerful cards, but their loyalty and even survival depend on your choices. If a character falls during the story, their card is lost too – taking a valuable piece of your deck with them.
Beyond its card-based battles, Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales lets players explore a richly detailed world across five large regions. Each area confronts Queen Meve with new challenges – whether it’s ruined villages, besieged cities or ancient ruins hiding dangerous secrets. Sharp-eyed players can uncover new cards, unlock unique scenario battles and make hidden choices that can change the course of the story. The journey is brought to life with stylish 2D visuals and animated cutscenes that capture the dark, immersive feel of the Witcher universe.
Reviews: Strong story and creative battles – but some balancing issues
Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales was developed by CD PROJEKT RED and released in November 2018. Upon launch, the German gaming outlet GameStar praised its gripping story, the variety in Gwent battles and the seamless integration of RPG mechanics. Choices made throughout the game not only shape the narrative but also determine the fate of key characters – directly impacting the cards available in your deck. Visually, Thronebreaker also stood out, with the editors highlighting its atmospheric 2D art style as a stylish and fitting interpretation of the Witcher universe.
GameStar’s review of Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales also pointed out some weaknesses, particularly in the game's balance. Regular battles can become too easy, especially in the later stages when players have built a powerful deck, leaving the AI with little challenge to offer. In contrast, the optional puzzle battles can be frustrating, as a single mistake often forces a full restart. Despite not giving a final score, GameStar still called it “the best single-player card game of all time.” The broader reception has been similarly positive: on Steam, 89% of over 14,000 user reviews are favorable, while on Metacritic the game holds a Metascore of 85 and a User Score of 8.3.
80% discount on Steam
Thronebreaker: The Witcher Tales usually sells for around $20 on Steam, but until May 25 it’s available for just under $4 thanks to an 80% discount. According to SteamDB, this deal isn’t unusual – it last appeared during the Spring Sale in March – but the game has never been cheaper. Still, it’s a great opportunity for anyone looking to dive deeper into the Witcher universe while waiting for The Witcher 4. Executive Producer Gosia Mitręga has already confirmed that Gwent will once again feature in the upcoming title.
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.
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