The Witcher author Andrzej Sapkowski was once described to us by rights owner and game publisher CD Projekt as the "Polish Tolkien", so the series is something of a symbol of national pride. Between that and its sometimes political nature, it's fitting that when President Barack Obama visited the country last week, Prime Minister Donald Tusk presented him a copy of The Witcher 2 (Collector's Edition, no less) and the English editions of two of the books -- The Wish and Blood of Elves -- signed by Sapkowski himself.CD Projekt says the event is a first of its kind for Poland, and possibly anywhere. Suffice it to say, the company is beaming.“We are very proud to know that Prime Minister Tusk felt The Witcher 2 was the most suitable gift for the US President," stated Adam Kicinski, CEO of Optimus S.A, CD Projekt's parent company. "It is a further indication that our game is a quality product. This recognition boosts the strong enthusiasm we are already feeling due to our game’s high scores from the media and its very healthy sales to date. It also sends a clear message to the entire new media industry in Poland that our government sees great potential in game development."“This is an extraordinary acknowledgement of our hard work here at CD Projekt RED," said Adam Badowski, Game Director. "The Witcher 2 is a game we created for players around the world by drawing from various sources including our national heritage. We are truly pleased to promote our culture in this manner."Meanwhile, the Polish government explains the gesture is simply an extension of their pride -- that and they want to promote the game and the Polish games industry.“The success of Polish games makes us proud," stated Pawel Gras, Polish government spokesman. "It is one of the reasons Poland is regarded as an innovative, progressive country. The success of The Witcher 2, and its status as a top-selling title, should be made known around the world. That is why the Prime Minister chose it to give to President Obama. We would like to congratulate the entire Polish game industry including the creators of The Witcher 2 and of all the other Polish games appreciated worldwide. We’re looking for the Polish game market to continue growing, and to exceed a billion PLN soon."
