The Witcher 4: Everything We Know About CD Projekt Red’s Next Epic RPG

The Witcher 4 is officially in development, promising to kick off a whole new saga in CD Projekt Red’s acclaimed RPG serie. Fans of Geralt’s adventures are eager to learn what’s next in this epic fantasy universe. Below, we break down everything we know so far about The Witcher 4 – from its title and protagonist to release info, gameplay, and development status – based on the latest announcements and credible reports. We’ll also address common questions in the FAQ and wrap up with a look at where to find the latest news.

Whether you’re a longtime Witcher fan or just curious about CDPR’s next project, read on for a comprehensive overview of The Witcher 4: Everything We Know. Let’s dive into the details of this highly anticipated open-world RPG.

What is the official title of The Witcher 4?

CD Projekt Red has *confirmed that the game’s title is indeed The Witcher 4. Early on, the project was announced simply as “a new Witcher game” codenamed Project Polaris, leading many to call it “Witcher 4” informally. In December 2024, however, the studio officially unveiled the title “The Witcher IV” (using the Roman numeral for 4) during The Game Award. This puts to rest any speculation that the game might be named differently.

By confirming The Witcher 4 as the name, CDPR signals that this is a full-fledged next installment following the original trilogy, even though it begins a new narrative arc. The announcement came with a cinematic teaser and the tagline “A New Saga Begins,” emphasizing that this game launches a new Witcher storyline.

In summary, yes – The Witcher 4 is the official title, making clear that it’s the start of a new Witcher saga but still part of the main series.

When is The Witcher 4 expected to be released?

CD Projekt Red has not announced a release date or even a release window for The Witcher 4 yet. Given what we know, it’s safe to say the game is still years away. Key points on timing:

• Full production began in late 2024: CDPR confirmed in November 2024 that The Witcher 4 (Polaris) had finished pre-production and entered “full-scale production – the most intensive phase of development. This means the team is now in active development, but there’s a long road ahead.
• At least 3+ years from now: CDPR’s joint CEO stated that Polaris would not launch until at least three years from 2022/23, due to the new engine and groundwork neede. In fact, a fiscal report in early 2025 suggested The Witcher 4 won’t be ready until **“at least 2027”*. So mid-to-late 2027 (or beyond) is a realistic estimate.
• Past development cycles: For reference, The Witcher 3 was announced in 2013 and released in 2015 (about 2+ years after its full production began). Cyberpunk 2077 took even longer. CDPR is likely to take extra time to polish Witcher 4, given the lessons learned from Cyberpunk’s launc.

Given these factors, fans should expect a lengthy wait. There’s no official launch year yet, but it’s clear we won’t be playing The Witcher 4 for a few more years. Late 2020s is the current ballpark. CDPR will undoubtedly share a release window when they’re confident, but until then, any date is speculative. The main takeaway: The Witcher 4 is coming, but *don’t expect it until around 2026–2027 or later.

Who is the main protagonist in The Witcher 4?

The main protagonist of The Witcher 4 will be *Cirilla Fiona Elen Riannon – better known as Ciri. This marks a major shift for the series, as Geralt of Rivia was the playable hero of the first three Witcher games. Here’s what we know about this change: Ciri’s determined gaze in The Witcher 4’s reveal trailer. CDPR has confirmed she will be the game’s central character, stepping into the spotlight as the new Witcher protagonis.

• Ciri takes center stage: CD Projekt Red announced at The Game Awards 2024 that Ciri is the new lead character of *The Witcher 4. The cinematic trailer featured Ciri instead of Geralt, confirming her as the playable witcher and hero of the story.
• Exploring Ciri’s journey: In this game, we will follow *Ciri on her Path to becoming a witcher. CDPR felt that Ciri “deserves” to have her story told and that Witcher 4 is an opportunity to explore what it truly means for her to embrace the life of a witcher. This means players will experience new facets of the Witcher world through Ciri’s eyes.

It’s worth noting that this change stirred some debate among fans, since Geralt is such an iconic figure. The developers anticipated that reaction and are confident in the choice. They want to prove that Ciri as protagonist is the right move by delivering a compelling experience.

In summary: The Witcher 4 will star Ciri as the playable main protagonist, taking over from Geralt. You’ll be stepping into Ciri’s shoes as she fights monsters and forges her own legend – a significant and exciting shift for the franchise.

What is the storyline of The Witcher 4?

CD Projekt Red is keeping most story details under wraps, but we do have some hints from the reveal trailer and dev comments:

• A new Witcher saga: The story will center on Ciri embarking on **“her own journey to become a professional monster slayer.”* This suggests the narrative is about Ciri’s path to witcherhood – taking on contracts, honing her skills, and finding her place as a witcher, now that Geralt’s time in the spotlight is over.
• Reveal trailer setup: In the six-minute cinematic trailer shown at The Game Awards 2024, Ciri arrives in Stromford, a village terrorized by a monster. Villagers sacrifice a girl to appease a forest “god,” but Ciri intervenes, confronting both villagers and the creature. The story emphasizes a Witcher theme of superstition and human prejudice. It underscores that monsters can take both literal and human forms.
• Dark, grounded tone: The Witcher 4 maintains the series’ mature, gritty tone, as described by CDPR. Expect complex characters, tough moral choices, and dark storylines. Ciri’s outsider status as a witcheress with Elder Blood creates tension with villagers. Her perspective highlights conflicts, as seen in the trailer’s hostile village reaction.
• Post-Witcher 3 world: Set after The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the game reflects a canon outcome where Ciri survives. CDPR ensures the story aligns with Witcher 3’s ending without breaking continuity. The political landscape, including Nilfgaard’s war, persists from the previous game. References to characters like Emhyr or the Lodge may appear based on relevance.
• New conflicts & characters: The Witcher 4 introduces a new saga with fresh characters and threats. The trailer’s forest spirit monster is one of many challenges Ciri faces. Her Elder Blood may draw dangerous attention from exploiters. New allies and enemies will populate her journey, with potential cameos from past figures like Yennefer or Lambert.

In summary, The Witcher 4’s storyline is launching a new chapter focusing on Ciri. She’s effectively taking on the role of a witcher, traveling the Continent (and possibly beyond) to confront monsters and her destiny. The tone will be dark and morally complex, in true Witcher fashion, and the narrative will build on the world state left by the previous games while charting its own path forward.

How does The Witcher 4 connect to previous games in the series?

The Witcher 4 is both a continuation of the series and the start of a new arc. Here’s how it connects:

• Timeline continuity: The game takes place after The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, meaning it shares the same universe and follows the chronology of events from the first three game. Major outcomes from Witcher 3 (like the end of the war, Ciri’s survival) form the backstory of Witcher 4. Essentially, it’s a sequel in the timeline, though focusing on a different protagonist.
• Geralt’s legacy: In The Witcher 4, Geralt’s story from Witcher 3 is concluded, with Ciri as the new focus. As his adopted daughter, Ciri carries Geralt’s training and values, linking to past games. Geralt may be referenced as a legendary witcher or appear in a cameo. Developers confirm he’s no longer the main character but could have a minor role.
• Returning elements: Many elements from prior games will carry over as part of the world:
  • Locations: We might revisit or hear news of places like Novigrad, Nilfgaard, Kaer Morhen, etc., though the adventure could also explore new regions.
  • Organizations: Witcher schools (Wolf, etc.) still exist; the Witcher 4 is introducing a new school (Lynx) as well, but it builds on the concept of witcher orders from past lore. The sorceresses, the Wild Hunt (if any remnants), the political factions – all that world-building remains as context.
  • Lore and history: Events of the previous games (e.g., the Battle of Kaer Morhen, the defeat of the Wild Hunt, etc.) are history in Witcher 4. Characters may refer to them as past events. For example, if someone meets Ciri, they might know she fought the White Frost or that she’s the child of the Elder Blood, things established in Witcher 3’s storyline.
• Ciri’s personal journey: Witcher 4 heavily connects through Ciri’s personal history. Players who experienced Witcher 3 will recall Ciri’s trials and her character development. That provides depth to her role now. However, even new players should be able to follow – the game will likely introduce Ciri and her background enough for newcomers.
• New saga, new entry point: Despite the connections, CDPR is pitching this as a “new saga.” That means The Witcher 4 is also designed as an entry point for newcomers. The narrative will stand on its own (you won’t have to know Geralt’s whole story to understand Ciri’s). But for returning fans, there will be many nods and continuity threads that enrich the experience.

In short, The Witcher 4 is firmly set in the same world as the previous games and continues from where they left off, particularly via Ciri’s character. It honors the past (Geralt’s legacy, established lore) while blazing a new trail. Think of it as the next chapter in a long story – connected, but focusing on a different hero and new conflicts in the established universe.

What game engine is The Witcher 4 being developed on?

The Witcher 4 is being built on Unreal Engine 5 (UE5), a change from CDPR’s proprietary REDengine used in previous title. Here’s what that entails:

• Switch to Unreal Engine 5: In March 2022, CD Projekt Red announced a partnership with Epic Games to use Unreal Engine 5 for The Witcher 4 and future project. This marked a significant shift, as The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077 ran on CDPR’s own REDengine. The move is part of a multi-year strategic partnership, meaning CDPR is working closely with Epic to tailor UE5 for open-world RPG.
• Benefits of UE5: Unreal Engine 5 enables detailed, realistic environments with advanced features. Lumen lighting and Nanite assets enhance visual fidelity. CDPR uses UE5’s open-world tools for greater scale. The Witcher 4 will leverage UE5 for next-gen graphics.
• Why the change: Maintaining REDengine was resource-heavy, requiring overhauls per game. Unreal Engine shares development burden with Epic and the community. This allows CDPR to focus on content, improving predictability. Cyberpunk’s rocky launch may have prompted using a proven engine.
• Not an Epic Store exclusive: Importantly, using Epic’s engine does not make Witcher 4 exclusive to the Epic Games Store. CDPR has already clarified this, likely because they have their own platform (GOG) and a history of multi-platform release. The Epic partnership is about technology, not distribution exclusivity.

In summary, CDPR is developing The Witcher 4 on Unreal Engine 5 instead of their in-house engine. This should result in improved graphics, potentially larger and more detailed worlds, and hopefully a more optimized game at launch. It’s a behind-the-scenes decision that will have very visible benefits once we see the game in action.

What platforms will The Witcher 4 be available on?

While official platforms haven’t been announced, we can infer based on technology and timing:

• PC (Windows): A PC release is almost certain. All Witcher games have launched on PC, and CDPR always supports PC (often with cutting-edge features). Expect The Witcher 4 on Windows PC (via GOG, Steam, etc.) at launch.
• PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S: Given the release timeframe (mid-to-late 2020s) and the use of Unreal Engine 5, The Witcher 4 will target the current generation of consoles – PS5 and Xbox Series X/S – as the flagship platforms alongside . These consoles have the SSDs and GPU power needed for UE5’s advanced features. Witcher 4 will likely be optimized for those systems.
• Next-gen consoles: It’s possible that by the time Witcher 4 releases, a new generation (e.g., PlayStation 6 or a future Xbox) could be on the horizon. CDPR’s own speculation notes Witcher 4 could even land in a timeframe where next-gen platforms arriv. If so, Witcher 4 might span generations – e.g., launch on PS5/Series X and later get enhanced on PS6, or simply be forward-compatible. But this is speculative; what’s clear is PS5/Series X are in scope, and any beyond that will depend on timing.
• Older consoles (PS4/Xbox One): Highly unlikely. By 2027-ish, PS4 and Xbox One will be two generations old. Also, UE5 and Witcher 4’s ambitions would be severely hampered by the old hardware. CDPR suffered issues trying to downscale Cyberpunk 2077 to last-gen. It’s safe to assume Witcher 4 will not release on PS4/Xbox One. It’s truly targeting the modern hardware capabilities.
• Other platforms: What about Nintendo or others? The Nintendo Switch struggled to run Witcher 3 (it had a heavily downgraded port). Unless a future Nintendo console is as powerful as a PS5, Witcher 4 is probably not coming to Nintendo (at least not without a cloud version). Streaming services or cloud might be an option (for playing on lesser devices), but natively, expect it only on high-end consoles and PC.

In summary, *The Witcher 4 will almost certainly release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Depending on how far out the release is, it could also be one of the early games on the next gen of consoles. Older consoles won’t be supported. We’ll await official word, but essentially, if you have a current-gen console or a gaming PC, you should be set for Witcher 4 when it arrives.

Will Geralt of Rivia appear in The Witcher 4?

Geralt’s story as a protagonist has ended, but fans are curious if the legendary Witcher will make any appearance in The Witcher 4. Here’s what we know or can surmise:

• Geralt is not the focus: CDPR has made it clear that The Witcher 4 “won’t focus on Geralt” and “it’s not about him this time. Ciri is the new protagonist, so Geralt is not a playable character in this game. This is the first main Witcher title where that’s the case.
• Hints of a cameo: While not confirmed, there are strong hints that Geralt may still appear in some capacity. Geralt’s voice actor, Doug Cockle, suggested in mid-2024 that *“Geralt will be part of the game, we just don’t know how much. He later walked that back after being “scolded” by CDPR (they hadn’t officially revealed anything. The fact that CDPR reacted suggests Geralt’s involvement was a sensitive secret – implying that he could indeed have a role, even if small.
• Possible roles for Geralt: If Geralt does show up, it might be:
  • As a mentor or NPC who interacts with Ciri briefly (perhaps giving advice or a mission).
  • In a cameo scene or flashback that pays homage to him.
  • Via references in dialogue/books in the game world (people telling tales of Geralt’s past deeds).
  Given Ciri’s close relationship with Geralt, it would make sense for the story to acknowledge him. Perhaps the game begins with Ciri parting ways with Geralt to start her own journey, or ends with her reuniting with him – these are speculative ideas, but narratively plausible.
• Past precedent: The Witcher saga (in books) did continue beyond Geralt in some form, but Geralt has never been completely absent from things bearing the Witcher name. CDPR likely wants to honor Geralt’s legacy. So even if he’s mostly “off-screen,” his presence will be felt. And a brief Geralt appearance would be a great treat for fans without stealing Ciri’s spotlight.
• No official confirmation yet: Until CDPR explicitly says, Geralt’s status in Witcher 4 is left to our imagination. They likely want the focus on Ciri, so they haven’t brought up Geralt in official communications about the game.

In conclusion, Geralt will not be the player character in The Witcher 4, but there’s a good chance he might *appear in a cameo or supporting role. At the very least, the game will acknowledge the White Wolf’s legacy. Fans hoping for a Geralt sighting have reason to be optimistic, but the story firmly belongs to Ciri now.

What are the key features and gameplay mechanics in The Witcher 4?

While specific gameplay details are under wraps, we can outline the major features The Witcher 4 is expected to have, based on the series’ legacy and developer hints:

• Single-Player Open World RPG: Like its predecessors, Witcher 4 will be a vast open-world action RPG for a single player. You’ll explore expansive landscapes, take on quests, slay monsters, and delve into an engaging storyline at your own pace. There’s no indication of multiplayer – CDPR is sticking to the rich single-player experience they’re known for.
• Play as a Witcher (Ciri) with unique abilities: Play as Ciri, a witcheress with core witcher gameplay like sword combat, alchemy, and magic signs. Her Elder Blood powers add unique abilities, like blinking (teleportation) seen in Witcher 3. Witcher 4 expands these with new mechanics, such as chain weapons and advanced magic. Trailer showcases her using teleport-dashing and magical attacks unlike regular witchers.
• Deep choices & consequences: Witcher 4 emphasizes player agency with impactful choices in quests and dialogue. Decisions shape the story, gameplay encounters, and lead to branching questlines. Players can choose mission approaches, like stealth or combat, with moral consequences. The game features multiple endings, potentially more varied than Witcher 3.
• Richer character progression: CDPR enhances playstyle diversity, learning from Cyberpunk 2077’s flexible builds. Ciri’s skill tree allows specialization in swordsmanship, magic, alchemy, or stealth. Players can craft Ciri as a rogue-like fighter or magic-heavy combatant. Offers greater flexibility compared to Witcher 3’s limited Geralt builds.
• Enhanced combat and monsters: Combat evolves with Ciri’s agility, magic, and new engine, retaining familiar swordplay. New weapon types, like the trailer’s chain whip, and Sign-like abilities may appear. Features new monsters requiring specific strategies, oils, and tactics. Stays true to the series’ monster hunter core with expanded mechanics.
• Witcher gear and crafting: Collecting and crafting gear has been a staple. Witcher 4 should continue this, offering new armor sets (especially with a new Lynx School, there will be Lynx School gear) and upgrades. You’ll likely gather materials from the world and monsters to craft better swords, brew powerful potions, and concoct decoctions for buffs, maintaining that preparation element that Witcher is known for.
• Investigation and exploration: As a witcher, Ciri will use investigative skills to track monsters (Witcher senses likely return, maybe depicted with Ciri’s perspective). Exploration will involve uncovering hidden quests, ruins, and lore. They aim to make the world more immersive with each NPC feeling alive, which might extend to gameplay like more organic side quests discovered through interacting with townsfolk, etc.

In essence, The Witcher 4 will carry forward the key gameplay pillars of the series – open-world exploration, story-driven quests with choices, tactical combat, and RPG progression – while enhancing them with new technology and Ciri’s unique spin. Players can expect a familiar Witcher foundation but with fresh mechanics and improvements that make it the “most immersive and ambitious” Witcher game yet.

How does The Witcher 4’s open-world design compare to The Witcher 3?

CDPR has indicated they want The Witcher 4’s open world to be more immersive and deeper, rather than just bigger, compared to The Witcher 3. Here’s what that means:

• Meaningful content over sheer size: The Witcher 4 prioritizes quality over a larger map, focusing on dense, meaningful content. Narrative director Philipp Weber emphasizes avoiding repetitive filler quests. The world may be similar in size to Witcher 3 or slightly larger. Every element aims to be engaging and purposeful.
• A “deeper” open world: The world aims to feel alive, with NPCs having distinct lives and roles. In Stromford, villagers react believably to events like the sacrifice ritual. Enhanced NPC behavior and facial performance boost immersion. Expect dynamic towns, natural wildlife, and responsive environments.
• Less icon clutter, more discovery: The Witcher 4 may reduce map icons, favoring organic exploration. Quests and points of interest are discovered through NPC interactions. The design avoids overwhelming players with busywork. The world invites natural engagement over marker-driven tasks.
• World regions: The Witcher 4’s setting is unspecified but features distinct regional cultures and folklore. Multiple regions, if included, will be seamlessly accessible via Unreal Engine 5. Each area offers unique quests and monsters tied to its lore. Content avoids reuse for authenticity.
• Open-world activities: Monster hunting, treasure hunts, and horse riding are expected to return. Side activities will integrate with the narrative, like bandit hideouts with mini-stories. A Gwent-like mini-game is unconfirmed but desired. All content aims to feel story-relevant.
• Tech improvements: Unreal Engine 5 enables detailed, seamless environments with far draw distances. Expect denser forests, realistic cities, and dynamic events. Weather and time affect NPC behavior, enhancing realism. These details make the world more immersive than Witcher 3’s.

In summary, The Witcher 4’s open world will build on Witcher 3’s foundation but aim to be *more immersive, with every element feeling purposeful and alive. It’s about making a world you want to get lost in, not because it’s endless in size, but because it’s rich in detail, story, and authenticity at every turn.

What choices and consequences system is implemented in The Witcher 4?

Choice and consequence are core to The Witcher series, and The Witcher 4 is expected to push this even further:

• Player-driven narrative: The Witcher 4 emphasizes player agency with choices shaping quests and outcomes. Like The Witcher 3, it features branching storylines with varied consequences. The game aims for a deeper RPG experience with more extensive branching. Decisions, both big and small, define the narrative path.
• More impactful gameplay consequences: Choices in The Witcher 4 affect both narrative and gameplay. For example, allying with a faction may make a region safer with new resources. Opposing them could increase dangers but grant different allies. Player decisions shape exploration and encounters uniquely.
• Moral ambiguity: Choices remain morally gray, with no purely good outcomes. Players face dilemmas like village fates or sentient monster decisions. Each choice carries unforeseen consequences, maintaining Witcher nuance. Ciri’s trailer scenario exemplifies these tough, ambiguous calls.
• Multiple endings: The Witcher 4 likely features multiple endings shaped by key choices. These affect Ciri’s personal outcome and NPC or faction fates. Endings may vary from Ciri remaining a witcher to taking leadership roles. Player decisions drive diverse conclusions.
• Handling Witcher 3 choices: The Witcher 4 assumes a canon where Ciri survives The Witcher 3. CDPR avoids invalidating past endings, likely not importing save data. Ciri’s survival, possibly not as Empress, sets the narrative start. The game builds new branchings from this point.
• Example of consequence: Ciri might choose between saving a friend or securing an artifact. Saving the friend loses the artifact, complicating later quests but gaining an ally. Choosing the artifact may lead to the friend’s death, affecting story and morale. Such trade-offs create varied playthroughs.

CDPR has excelled at this in the past, and they’re aiming even higher now. Your choices in The Witcher 4 will significantly shape the story and world, ensuring that players truly feel the weight of their decisions and can experience different story paths on different playthrough.

What is known about the combat system in The Witcher 4?

While we haven’t seen direct gameplay, we can extrapolate how combat in The Witcher 4 will work:

• Swordplay and Signs (with Ciri’s twist): Ciri’s combat is action-oriented, using steel and silver swords for humans and monsters. It includes fast strikes, dodges, parries, and counter-attacks, with Signs like Aard or Quen possibly returning. Her Elder Blood powers, like teleportation or magical attacks, may replace or enhance Signs. Combat integrates her unique abilities for a distinct Witcher experience.
• Ciri’s powers in combat: Ciri’s Elder Blood powers introduce new mechanics, like a chain weapon for ranged attacks or traversal. She uses energy blasts and teleportation, making combat faster and more agile than Geralt’s. Combos may include warping behind enemies or area-of-effect magical slashes. Her abilities create a varied, dynamic combat style.
• Monster hunting and preparation: Preparation remains crucial, with Ciri brewing potions like Swallow, applying blade oils for bonus damage, and using bombs. She follows the Witcher ethos of studying monster weaknesses. These mechanics ensure strategic combat against diverse foes. Her unique nature doesn’t change this core approach.
• Skill tree and combat styles: A robust skill tree allows customization of swordsmanship, magic, or alchemy. Sword-focused builds emphasize melee, while magic builds favor hit-and-run tactics. Alchemy enhances potion effects or mutates abilities. This offers varied playstyles tailored to player preferences.
• AI and challenge: Improved AI makes enemies more tactical, with humans flanking and monsters showing complex behaviors. Diverse monsters, from swift vampires to lumbering golems, require adaptive strategies. New creatures from Witcher lore add variety. Players must investigate and execute specific combat tactics.
• Boss battles: Epic boss fights are more cinematic, leveraging UE5 for interactive environments and large creatures. Ciri’s mobility enables dynamic battles, like chasing dragons or warping to hit weak points. Fights may involve destructible scenery. These encounters are designed to be visually spectacular and strategic.

Overall, combat in The Witcher 4 will build on Witcher 3’s excellent foundation of tactical action combat, but with enhancements thanks to Ciri’s abilities and next-gen technology. Players can anticipate smoother controls, new moves (like that chain whip attack), and a need to master both steel and sorcery in the heat of battle. It should feel at once familiar to series veterans and fresh due to the new tricks up Ciri’s sleeve.

Are there any new Witcher schools introduced in The Witcher 4?

Yes, The Witcher 4 introduces the School of the Lynx, a new Witcher school not found in the original books or prior games. This significant addition marks a fresh chapter in the series’ lore.

• Teaser medallion = Lynx: The 2022 teaser image showed a lynx-shaped medallion in snow, confirmed by CDPR as the Lynx School’s symbol. It signaled The Witcher 4’s focus on a new Witcher lineage. The glowing red eyes hinted at a fresh narrative direction. This distinguished it from known schools like Wolf or Cat.
• Ciri’s connection: Ciri is likely linked to the Lynx School, possibly carrying its medallion. Her past use of a Cat School medallion suggests a connection, potentially as an offshoot. Fan theories propose Lambert and Keira Metz founded the Lynx School. Ciri may join or help establish it, fitting her unique witcheress identity.
• New school, new gear: The Lynx School introduces new armor, weapons, and medallions as top-tier gear. CDPR sells Lynx medallion replicas, indicating Ciri’s likely use of it. The school may emphasize a unique combat style, possibly stealth and speed. This reflects the lynx’s agile, predatory nature.
• Lore implications: The Lynx School’s origin may be explored through story or side quests. Its absence in prior lore allows CDPR to craft a new founding narrative. Lambert could be involved, or Ciri might help establish it. This adds depth to The Witcher 4’s world and Ciri’s journey.
• Other schools: No other new schools are hinted at, but existing ones like Wolf and Cat are acknowledged. The Lynx School may be a Cat offshoot, with Griffin or Bear schools mentioned via gear. The narrative focuses on the Lynx School’s introduction. Geralt’s Wolf School remains iconic in the lore.

In summary, *the School of the Lynx is the new Witcher school introduced in The Witcher 4. It’s a fresh creation for this saga, likely closely tied to Ciri’s character development. This new school brings new symbolism, potentially new characters (if other Lynx witchers

What is the development status of The Witcher 4?

As of early 2025, The Witcher 4 is in full production. CDPR spent 2022–2023 in pre-production (story, concept art, engine R&D). In late 2024 they announced the project (codenamed Polaris) moved to **full-scale development. This means the game is actively being built (levels, gameplay systems, etc.) by the bulk of the team. It’s likely still in an early development phase with a lot of work ahead. No beta or release timeframe has been given, indicating that while production is ongoing, significant development and polishing are still to come over the next few years.

How many developers are working on The Witcher 4?

CD Projekt Red has allocated a huge team to The Witcher 4. Approximately 400 developers are working on it. This is the majority of CDPR’s dev staff (around 650 total), making Polaris the studio’s main focus. To compare, that’s about ten times the team size of the Cyberpunk sequel in early development. The team ramped up as pre-production ended, going from a smaller planning group to hundreds of developers once full production began. This large workforce underscores how ambitious Witcher 4 is – CDPR is committing massive resources to deliver the game.

What is Project Polaris and how is it related to The Witcher 4?

Project Polaris is the internal codename for The Witcher 4. CDPR often uses codenames for projects, and Polaris specifically refers to the next Witcher game. Importantly, Polaris is not just a codename – it also represents the start of a new Witcher trilogy. CDPR has revealed that Polaris (Witcher 4) will be the first of three new Witcher RPGs planned, with the goal to release the second and third installments within six years after Polaris’s release. In short, Polaris = Witcher 4, and it’s the launching point of a multi-game saga. The name “Polaris” (North Star) is fitting as it symbolizes a guiding light for the franchise’s future direction.

What is the role of Ciri’s powers in The Witcher 4?

Ciri’s Elder Blood powers are set to play a major role in The Witcher 4, both in story and gameplay. Her abilities to teleport, manipulate space/time, and travel between worlds (as established in the books/games) give her an edge and also pose unique challenges. In the Witcher 4 reveal trailer, we see Ciri using “advanced magic powers” and a magical chain weapon, showcasing her prowess.

Story-wise, these powers are part of Ciri’s identity – learning to control them is likely part of her journey to becoming a witcher. They might also attract new enemies who seek Elder Blood. For gameplay, players can expect to utilize Ciri’s powers for mobility (e.g., blink teleport dodges) and combat (powerful special attacks), making her playstyle distinct from Geralt’s. In essence, Ciri’s powers are a defining feature of Witcher 4, and the game will explore what it means for Ciri to harness those abilities on the Path.

How does The Witcher 4 aim to improve NPC interactions and AI?

CDPR is aiming to make NPCs and the game world more immersive and believable than ever. They’ve stated a “rule” for The Witcher 4 that **every single NPC should look like they’re living their own story. In practical terms, this means more advanced AI behaviors: villagers and characters will follow daily routines, react dynamically to the player and other events, and have unique animations and dialogues that make them feel like real people rather than static quest-givers.

The Witcher 3 (and Cyberpunk 2077) had some criticisms for NPCs feeling a bit mechanical at times. Witcher 4 intends to “push the bar” on NPC quality, with better facial expressions and behavior. For example, in a village, blacksmiths will smith, children will play, merchants will barter – and if a monster attacks or a dramatic event occurs, NPCs will respond in believable ways (fleeing, defending, etc.). These improvements in AI and interactions should make the world feel more alive and reactive to your actions, greatly enhancing immersion.

What are the graphical advancements in The Witcher 4 using Unreal Engine 5?

Thanks to Unreal Engine 5, The Witcher 4 is poised to deliver a major leap in graphics and visuals. UE5’s cutting-edge features (like Lumen global illumination and Nanite micro-polygon rendering) allow for incredibly realistic lighting, shadows, and geometric detail. CDPR noted that moving to UE5 enables environments that are more detailed and **“realistic, with a great sense of overall visual fidelity”. We’ve already gotten a taste: the Witcher 4 teaser trailer was pre-rendered in-engine on a high-end NVIDIA RTX GPU, showcasing near-cinematic quality models and scene. We can expect:

• Higher detail characters and monsters (every piece of armor or fur on a creature rendered with accuracy).
• Larger draw distances and seamless environments (the world can be vast without loading screens, and you might see distant mountains or cities in fine detail).
• Improved weather and effects: dynamic lighting will make sunsets, storms, and nights more atmospheric, and effects like fire, magic, and water will look more natural.
• Better performance optimization: Despite higher fidelity, UE5’s tools should help the game run well on capable hardware, scaling from PC to consoles. In short, The Witcher 4 will harness modern graphics tech to create the most visually stunning depiction of the Witcher’s world to date – truly next-gen visuals that surpass anything seen in the series so far.

Where can fans find the latest news and updates about The Witcher 4?

To stay updated on The Witcher 4, fans should follow official CD Projekt Red channels and reputable gaming news outlets. Key sources include:

• The Witcher’s official website and social media: The Witcher website (thewitcher.com) has a news section, and the official Twitter account (@witchergame) regularly posts announcements, teasers, and developer updates. These channels often get news out first – for example, the initial “A New Saga Begins” teaser and title reveal were posted on official feeds.
• CD Projekt Red’s news/Investor updates: CDPR sometimes shares development progress in investor presentations or on their corporate site. News like the game entering full production or team expansions have been disclosed in financial result calls (which then get reported by media.
• Gaming news sites: Outlets such as IGN, GamesRadar, PC Gamer, Polygon, and VGC closely follow Witcher 4 developments. They report on trailers, interviews, and any leaks or tidbits. Subscribing to or periodically checking these sites’ Witcher sections will ensure you catch new info (for example, IGN and Polygon had exclusive interviews shedding light on Witcher 4’s design.
• Community forums and Reddit: While not “official,” places like r/Witcher on Reddit often compile news and fan analysis quickly after any announcement. By keeping an eye on these sources – especially the official Witcher channels – fans will be the “first” to know of any Witcher 4 new updates, whether it’s a new trailer, a developer blog, or the eventual release date reveal.

FAQs

1. Is The Witcher 4 confirmed and what is it?
   Yes, CD Projekt Red has confirmed The Witcher 4 (codenamed “Polaris”) as the next installment in the series . It will kick off a brand new saga, with Ciri as the protagonist and a whole new storyline (not an expansion or spin-off, but a full sequel in the Witcher franchise).
2. Who do you play as in The Witcher 4?
   You will play as Ciri in The Witcher 4. Geralt will not be the player character this time – Ciri takes over as the main protagonist, which CDPR officially revealed in December 20.
3. Will Geralt appear in The Witcher 4 at all?
   Geralt is not the focus of Witcher 4, but he might appear in some capacity. CDPR hasn’t confirmed his appearance, but Geralt’s voice actor hinted Geralt could be “part of the game” in some way (though not as a protagonis. If he does show up, it would likely be a cameo or supporting role.
4. When is The Witcher 4 coming out?
   No release date yet – but don’t expect it for a while. The game only entered full production in late 2024, and CDPR suggested it won’t release until 2025+ at the earliest, with 2026–2027 being more like. In short, it’s several years away.
5. What platforms will The Witcher 4 be on?
   Likely on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. These are the platforms CDPR is targeting with their Unreal Engine 5 developmet. It will be a next-gen title, so it’s not expected to come to PS4 or Xbox One. If it releases late this decade, it may also be compatible with future consoles.
6. Is The Witcher 4 the start of a new trilogy?
   Yes. CDPR has stated that Witcher 4 (Polaris) will begin a new trilogy of Witcher game. Their plan is to release Witcher 4 and then two sequels (Witcher 5 and 6, essentially) within about six years of each other, continuing Ciri’s saga or the new storyline launched by Witcher 4.
7. Will my choices from Witcher 3 carry over to Witcher 4?
   Probably not in a save-import way. The Witcher 4 will have its own narrative that follows the Witcher 3 era, but CDPR will decide the canonical state (likely Ciri survived and did not become Empress). They’ve said the new game won’t break Witcher 3’s story, but you won’t be importing save decisions. Instead, Witcher 4 will acknowledge past events in a general way and then present you with new choices that shape its story.
8. Will The Witcher 4 have multiplayer or co-op features?
   No indications of multiplayer – The Witcher 4 is being developed as a **single-player, story-driven RPG. CDPR’s focus is on the narrative and open-world experience. There have been no announcements about any multiplayer or online components.
9. Are there other Witcher games in development besides The Witcher 4?
   Yes. Alongside Witcher 4 (Polaris), CDPR announced other projects: Project Sirius – an experimental Witcher-based game by The Molasses Flood, and Project Canis Majoris – a full-fledged Witcher remake (the original Witcher game is being remade) by an external stud. These are separate from the main Witcher 4 trilogy. So, fans have multiple Witcher games to look forward to, but Witcher 4 is the big next RPG in the series.
10. Who is voicing Ciri in The Witcher 4?
    As of the reveal trailer, Ciri’s voice actor has changed from Witcher 3. In the Witcher 4 teaser, Ciri was voiced by Irish actress Ciara Berkel. CDPR confirmed the recasting for the trailer, but it’s presumed she will continue to voice Ciri in the final game. This means Ciri may sound a bit different than in Witcher 3, which fans noticed, but CDPR chose a new actress as Ciri is now the lead character.

Conclusion

The Witcher 4 is shaping up to be an exciting new chapter for the franchise. From the official confirmation that Ciri will lead the story, to the shift to Unreal Engine 5 for greater ambition, everything we know points toward a bold evolution of the Witcher universe. We’re looking at a game that not only continues the rich lore after Wild Hunt but also pushes into uncharted territory – a new Witcher school (Lynx), a new trilogy plan, and likely the most immersive open world CDPR has built to date.

While we’ll have to be patient for its release, the early details paint a picture of a project aiming to surpass its predecessor in depth, interactivity, and narrative impact. Geralt’s saga may have ended, but a new legend is about to begin – and that’s incredibly exciting for fans. With Ciri at the helm and CDPR’s commitment to delivering their “most ambitious” Witcher experience , The Witcher 4 promises to be an epic journey worth the wait. Stay tuned to official channels for more news as the Path unfolds, and prepare to enter the Continent once again when “A New Saga” finally begins.

Sources and Citations

• CD PROJEKT (Press Release, Mar 21, 2022): New Witcher Saga Announced – CDPR Begins Development on Unreal Engine 5CD PROJEKT – New Witcher Saga Announced
• Polygon (Dec 13, 2024): Michael McWhertor, “The Witcher 4: Everything we know about CDPR’s new Witcher saga”Polygon – The Witcher 4: Everything We Know
• Polygon (Dec 13, 2024): Ana Diaz, “Witcher 4 trailer reveals Ciri as its playable protagonist”Polygon – Witcher 4 Trailer Reveals Ciri
• The Verge (Dec 13, 2024): Andrew Webster, “Here’s your very first look at The Witcher 4”The Verge – First Look at The Witcher 4
• GamesRadar+ (Dec 2024): The Witcher 4 – Everything we know so far (release date and platforms)GamesRadar+ – The Witcher 4: Everything We Know
• GamesRadar+ (Jan 2025): Ashley Bardhan, “The Witcher 4 NPCs will offer a more immersive experience”GamesRadar+ – Witcher 4 NPCs Immersive Experience
• IGN (Nov 2024): The Witcher 4 Enters Full-Scale Production (News on 400 developers)IGN – Witcher 4 Full-Scale Production
• IGN (Mar 2024): Reid McCarter, CDPR dev allocation – “ten times more devs on Witcher 4 than Cyberpunk’s sequel”IGN – CDPR Dev Allocation
• IGN (Dec 2024): Matt Purslow, “Inside The Witcher 4: CDPR’s plans for its next big RPG” (Interview with developers)IGN – Inside The Witcher 4
• PC Gamer (Mar 2022): Andy Chalk, “CDPR confirms Witcher medallion is a lynx”PC Gamer – Witcher Medallion Lynx
• VGC (Dec 2024): Jordan Middler, “Witcher 4 devs knew Ciri switch could be controversial”VGC – Witcher 4 Ciri Controversy
• CD Projekt Red – The Witcher Website: “A New Saga Begins” news post (Official announcement and newsletter sign-up)The Witcher – A New Saga Begins

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