We're still dealing with the same issue here. A game's quality isn't determined in the slightest by how many people it tracks to make them play other games. That's irrelevant. 

But if you really want to push it, recent data from CDPR shows that their adaptation of The Witcher has sold over 40 million units, more  than half of which belong to the third entry. Before of the release of 3, that amount was rounding 10 million between the original Witcher and 2, so, I mean, an important increased interest in the series has emerged since 2015.

Now, this notion that The Witcher series' atmosphere is too pretty for such a violent world, I disagree entirely with it. That's one of its main appeals, in fact, it creates such a contrast that allows you to take breaks from grim scenarios and embellished locations. In general, it keeps things fresh. 

If you want to know why people like The Witcher 3 so much you can look everywhere for opinions. Focal points include the incredible immersion, which is established by many things, beginning with Geralt himself. When I hear him examining and making deductions from the environment I cannot but think it's very engrossing, frankly. You learn from the world, people and beasts alike, and you get amused by the roll of the witcher, most importantly.

Same rule applies to everything else, which is so nicely crafted that, at least for me, it's very captivating even hearing the irreverent and crazy talk that a lot of villagers have with Geralt. It's interesting, and a lof of times it's almost believable due to how these people live in a world ruled by chaos and beasts from other dimensions.

In general, part of the game's appeal lies on its attention to detail, it's absorbing. So no, the praise isn't just for show.  

Huh? I think you got me confused with someone else, I never mentioned sales. Didn't even read the rest.