Faxanadu vs The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Faxanadu is an iconic side-scrolling action role-playing game developed for the Famicom and NES. Players assume the role of an unnamed wanderer who returns to his hometown of Eolis only to find it in distress and under attack by transformed Dwarves, initiating a perilous journey up the massive World Tree. Blending platforming action with classic RPG elements, players explore four distinct overworld areas, manage currency, and seek out the legendary magical sword hidden within the Dwarf King to defeat The Evil One. Released by Nintendo and Hudson Soft, it stands as a memorable side-story in the Dragon Slayer Xanadu series.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a story-driven open-world RPG in which you play Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter searching for his adopted daughter. It is celebrated for its mature writing, meaningful side quests, and a massive, hand-crafted world.
Around $39.99, frequently discounted; expansions sold separately or in a Complete Edition.
- Engaging blend of platforming and RPG mechanics
- Atmospheric and memorable 8-bit fantasy soundtrack
- Detailed vertical level design across the World Tree
- Rich connection to the broader Dragon Slayer series
- Outstanding writing and side quests
- Huge, atmospheric world
- Great value with expansions
- Frequent deep discounts
- High difficulty curve typical of NES titles
- Vague progression hints can lead to wandering
- Limited save and password system can be punishing
- Combat feels dated to some
- Overwhelming amount of content
- Slow start
What reviewers say
Faxanadu Reviews
No reviews yet.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Reviews
4.3 (4)Recommend The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Picked up The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt recently. Outstanding writing and side quests. One gripe: overwhelming amount of content. Would recommend.
So much fun
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has been my go-to lately. Frequent deep discounts. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Love it
Picked up The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt recently. Huge, atmospheric world. One gripe: combat feels dated to some. Would recommend.
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Alternatives to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
View all →A moddable open-world fantasy RPG where you can go anywhere and be anyone.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Witcher 3 offers a massive, story‑rich open‑world RPG with modern depth and frequent discounts, while Faxanadu delivers a compact, challenging 8‑bit platform‑RPG experience.
Key differences
- •World scale: Witcher 3's sprawling open world vs. Faxanadu's limited vertical levels.
- •Gameplay style: 3D action‑RPG combat vs. 2D side‑scrolling platform combat.
- •Platform reach: Witcher 3 on PC, PS, Xbox, Switch; Faxanadu only on legacy NES hardware.
- •Price model: Witcher 3 often discounted, expansions sold separately; Faxanadu is a one‑time purchase.
- •Difficulty: Witcher 3 moderate with optional challenges; Faxanadu has a high, NES‑era difficulty curve.
Gameplay & fun factor
Witcher 3 provides deep alchemy, signs, and branching quests; Faxanadu is limited to side‑scroll combat.
Platform availability
Witcher 3 runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch; Faxanadu only on NES (original) platforms.
Price & value
Witcher 3 often discounted to ~$39.99 with free expansions; Faxanadu is a one‑time purchase but higher relative cost for less content.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only.
Content & replayability
Witcher 3 offers massive main story, side quests, and two expansions; Faxanadu has a single, short campaign.
Difficulty & accessibility
Faxanadu’s high NES difficulty may appeal to retro challenge seekers; Witcher 3 is more accessible with difficulty settings.
Graphics & performance
Witcher 3 features modern 3D graphics across platforms; Faxanadu uses 8‑bit graphics.
Choose Faxanadu if…
Players seeking a nostalgic, tough 8‑bit platform‑RPG with a single purchase.
Choose The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt if…
Fans of deep story RPGs who want modern graphics and broad platform support.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper right now?
Witcher 3 frequently drops to around $39.99; Faxanadu is a one‑time purchase at its original price (not specified).
Can I play either game with friends?
Both titles are single‑player only; no multiplayer or co‑op.
Do I need a modern console for Faxanadu?
Faxanadu was released for NES in 1987; it is not listed for modern platforms.