As an international figure of some renown, US President Barack Obama is always getting gifts from heads of state on behalf of their countries. Some give items of national pride such as wine or jewels; Russia recently gave the President of the United States a CD holder. But this week, to celebrate Obama’s visit to Poland, he was presented with one of the highest-profile Polish products of recent years: English copies of two of the Witcher books, together with the latest game adapted from the series. A Collector’s Edition, no less!
The Witcher games are adapted by Polish developers CD Projekt from a series of best-selling Polish novels, making the IP natural choice to celebrate politically. And as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk no doubt knows from recent interviews,Obama owns his own computer (opens in new tab); it’s not clear whether aides were consulted to ensure the President’s machine met the recommended requirements (always a tricky consideration when purchasing PC games).
The gift “sends a clear message to the entire new media industry in Poland that our government sees great potential in game development,” says Adam Kicinski, CEO of Optimus S.A., which owns CD Projekt. No word on which previous gifts will be ditched from the Oval Office to make room for Obama’s new “Geralt’s Head” sculpture.
May 31, 2011
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One of the best RPGs of the year
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UK’s Video Standards Council questions current system after GOG’s website update allows Australians access to uncensored Witcher 2
The Witcher 2 features snarky Assassin’s Creed tie-in
Altair’s cameo possibly not canon