CD Projekt Red continues its slow roll-out of video gameplay for its upcoming RPG, The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings. However, this time, the footage is presented in a much more entertaining way: a framed-narrative style. This video shows two characters arguing back and forth over how the protagonist and actual Witcher, Geralt of Rivia, escaped from a prison.The red-headed lass is Triss, an actual witch and not to be confused with a Witcher (a professional monster killer). Fans of the original series will recognize her as one Geralt's most loyal companions and a powerful user of magic. The other character is Zoltan Chivay, a dwarven warrior who has fought alongside Geralt in the past.

As has been emphasized in past videos, The Witcher 2 footage showcases a non-linear style of gameplay where choices made by the player will have an effect on the game's overall storyline. Check out the video below, but be warned. If you are the easily offended type, there is a bit of nudity in one spot, courtesy of Zoltan's lusty imagination:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5RHi8kmYs0

As you can see, Geralt's actions during his escape have direct consequences. For example, if Geralt encounters the prince during his escape, his mother will be the one being tortured in the dungeon. If not, the prince will be tortured instead. Events such as these will have an effect on the overall ending of the game. To what degree? Well, there are 16 possible conclusions to this tale.

The video also shows that Geralt has options as to how he can accomplish his tasks. During his prison escape, he can attempt a stealthy escape or kill everyone in his path. Again, the play style chosen will ultimately shape the world Geralt must face later in the game.

One thing that sets The Witcher series apart from other role-playing games is the dark and serious tone that permeates throughout. There is little joy to be found in this world. Yet, CD Projekt Red does a good job at providing humorous moments to lighten the mood such as the instance in the video where a prisoner tried to call the guards to prevent Geralt's escape. Still, this is definitely a game aimed at those with mature sensibilities.

Based upon the amount of videos released for this game, CD Projekt Red surely has high hopes for its performance. Currently, the game is only set for release on the PC, but console versions are rumored to be on the way as well. When I witnessed the game demonstrated at E3, the developer controlled Geralt using an Xbox 360 controller, so it would be a natural transition as to the controls.

What do you think of the new footage? And do you plan on buying The Witcher 2 for your PC?

The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings is scheduled for release on Windows PC in Q1 2011.

Source: Eurogamer