Last night’s The Game Awards 2024 delivered a jaw-dropping moment for RPG fans worldwide—the official reveal of The Witcher 4. CD Projekt Red has confirmed not only the game’s title but also its protagonist: none other than Ciri herself.
A Cinematic to Remember
The reveal featured a haunting cinematic that immediately captured the essence of The Witcher. It begins with a village maiden being prepared for a dark ritual, only to have Ciri intervene in classic Witcher style—swords in hand, ready to take on the chaos. This moment set the tone for the game’s dark and grounded world, while also teasing an older, more seasoned Ciri, hinting at a significant time gap since the events of The Witcher 3.
As fans speculated, Geralt of Rivia may not be taking center stage this time. While his voice at the end of the trailer sparked excitement, it’s clear that he’ll serve a supporting role, leaving the spotlight for Ciri to shine.
A New Path for The Witcher Series
Game director Sebastian Kalemba shared the team’s vision for The Witcher 4, stating:
“For the longest time, we knew that we wanted Ciri to be the protagonist… In this game, we want to explore what it means to truly become a witcher by following Ciri on her Path.”
The new installment promises to delve into Ciri’s journey as she embraces her destiny as a witcher. With themes of self-discovery, the weight of power, and the challenges of her Path, players can expect a rich narrative that builds on The Witcher 3’s beloved world.
A Faster Development with Unreal Engine 5
In a surprising twist, CD Projekt Red announced that The Witcher 4 is slated for release in 2025—a timeline much sooner than expected. The transition to Unreal Engine 5 appears to have significantly boosted the studio’s productivity, allowing for faster development while maintaining the quality fans have come to expect.
However, CD Projekt Red emphasized its commitment to quality, referencing lessons learned from Cyberpunk 2077. CEO Michał Nowakowski reassured fans that a “mass attack” marketing approach with release dates and preorders will only begin when the game is fully ready.
Why Fans Are Excited
- Ciri as Protagonist: Finally taking center stage, her arc promises to explore new dimensions of what it means to be a witcher.
- Geralt’s Transition: While stepping back, his presence adds a nostalgic layer for long-time fans.
- Darker Themes: The cinematic hints at a more grounded and intense experience, true to the series’ roots.
- Early Release: The 2025 launch brings excitement and a shorter wait for fans eager to dive back into this epic world.
Join the Conversation!
What are your thoughts on Ciri taking the lead in The Witcher 4? Are you excited about the new direction of the series? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow Witcher fans!
