TVG: As you've previously mentioned The Witcher places the emphasis on action and combat; perhaps you could elaborate on this for us?

Michal Madej: We are really trying to be in a certain way "realistic" in the depiction of events in as much as that is possible in a fantasy world in which magic exists. However, we try to keep some kind of logic within the principles which rule the gameworld; and this can be seen in particular as part of the combat mechanisms. Combat in The Witcher requires the player to make a series of decisions and preparations. The first key question concerns swords - silver for monsters or steel for normal opponents. Secondly, the combat style is important - are we dealing with an armoured enemy or also with a fast and agile one, or maybe with a group of opponents? All of the above choices can already result in serious problems or even failure in battle. In addition there are special witcher elixirs - which make us resistant to special monster attacks or give us special abilities such as non-human speed or being able to see in the dark. However, the use of these elixirs also has additional effects on the character such as poisoning, so it is necessary to limit use of them. They are also not so easily available. All of this means that combat in the game is not just mindless clicking. It requires many tactical decisions which make it a lot more interesting and challenging.