CD Projekt Red (CDPR) has announced The Witcher 4, promising the most immersive and ambitious entry yet in the acclaimed video game series. Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga describes it as "the most immersive and ambitious open-world Witcher game to date," highlighting CDPR's commitment to continuous improvement. Director Sebastian Kalemba adds that lessons learned from Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 3 will be incorporated.
A New Era for Witchers
Ciri Takes Center Stage
The cinematic trailer showcased Ciri, Geralt's adopted daughter, as the game's protagonist, stepping into the role of Witcher. Story director Tomasz Marchewka reveals this was the plan from the start, citing Ciri's complex character as a rich source for storytelling. While fans loved Ciri's overpowered abilities in The Witcher 3, Mitręga hints at a shift, stating that "something totally happened in-between," leaving Ciri slightly less potent. Kalemba assures players that the game will provide a clear explanation for this change. Despite the adjustment, Mitręga emphasizes that Ciri retains Geralt's influence, describing her as "faster, more agile—but you can still tell that she was raised by Geralt."
Geralt's Well-Deserved Retirement
With Ciri taking the reins, Geralt's time in the spotlight is over. Considering his age – 61 in The Witcher 3, according to author Andrzej Sapkowski – Geralt is well into his sixties, if not seventies, by The Witcher 4's timeline. Sapkowski's latest novel, Rozdroże kruków, confirms Geralt's birth year as 1211. This revelation surprised some fans who had previously overestimated Geralt's age. While Witcher lore suggests a lifespan of up to 100 years, Geralt's advanced age marks a significant narrative shift.
The Witcher 4 promises a new chapter, focusing on Ciri's journey and Geralt's well-earned retirement. The game's ambitious scope and focus on a beloved character ensure a captivating experience for fans.