You can now play The Witcher 3's popular card game, Gwent, without actually starting up--or even owning--The Witcher 3. You will, however, have to own a different game.

A newly released mod for Tabletop Simulator--a PC game that allows you to make your own tabletop games--offers a version of Gwent for two players (there's no AI). It's the creation of Steam Workshop user Mr.RiZZaH, who notes in the description that this is merely a "fan project" that's not connected to Witcher developer CD Projekt Red.

Based on the screenshots you see above, this looks to be a relatively faithful recreation of Gwent, although not everything is exactly as it is in the official version. For instance, a note from the creator says it offers his or her "own ruleset involving deckbuilding (to balance multiplayer somewhat)."

You can download the free mod through the Steam Workshop, but you'll need Tabletop Simulator to play. Conveniently enough, the Steam summer sale has it discounted to $13.39 (down from $20) right now, or you can pick up a four-pack for $40.19 (rather than $60).

Meanwhile, the official version of Gwent is expanding with new cards, thanks to the free DLC that CD Projekt Red continues to deliver.

via PC Gamer