Witcher 3's magic signs, two combat stances & more discussed in new interview

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt developer CD Projekt RED has discussed Geralt's five starting magic signs, his two combat stances and some 96 new battle animations in a new interview.

Speaking with ClickOnline, The Witcher 3's lead gameplay designer Maciej Szcześnik said "At the beginning, Geralt will be able to choose from five signs.

"It doesn't end there, however - in The Witcher 3 we introduce new casting modes which effectively double the number of signs at the players disposal. These "alternative versions" will be unlocked through character development, but don't think of them as simply stronger versions of the same spells - they will offer different tactical uses.

"Let's take Aard as an example. The primary version of this sign will send a telekinetic thrust to stun or knock down foes. With time, players will be able to unlock a secondary version of the sign and by pressing and holding the button, they will send out a shockwave that knocks down all surrounding enemies (you can actually spot this in our gameplay trailer). Similar dual modes are available for every other sign."

Similar to previous Witcher games, Geralt will have multiple combat stances that employ some 96 new character animations, while battle QTEs have been removed. Szcześnik likened the games encounters to Dark Souls, stressing that defence will be as equally important to the player's survival as attacking.

What do you make of the combat details above? Let us know below.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is heading to PC, PS4 and Xbox One in 2014.

Thanks OXM.