Witcher 4: Ciri's Story Explored in Official Address

CD Projekt Red addresses the controversy surrounding Ciri's role as the protagonist in Witcher 4, while remaining tight-lipped about current-gen console compatibility. Read on for the latest updates.

Witcher 4 Development Insights: Addressing Fan Concerns

Ciri's Protagonist Role: A Controversial Choice?

In a recent VGC interview (December 18th), narrative director Phillipp Weber acknowledged the potential backlash of replacing Geralt with Ciri. He recognized the strong attachment players have to Geralt, stating, "We knew it could be controversial...everyone loved playing as Geralt." While acknowledging this "legitimate concern," Weber defended the decision, emphasizing their aim to demonstrate Ciri's compelling story potential. The choice, he explained, wasn't recent; it's been a long-term plan.

Weber justified the decision by pointing to Ciri's established presence as a secondary protagonist in previous novels and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. For the developers, Ciri's central role represents a natural progression. This decision allows them to explore new facets of the Witcher universe and Ciri's character arc following Wild Hunt.

Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga added that all questions regarding character arcs, including Geralt's fate, will be addressed in the game itself, urging fans to wait for the release.

However, Geralt isn't entirely absent. His voice actor confirmed in August 2024 that Geralt will appear, albeit in a supporting role, alongside new and returning characters. For more details, see our previous coverage. Further information and updates on Witcher 4 can be found in our dedicated article.

Console Compatibility Remains Unclear

In a separate Eurogamer interview (December 18th), director Sebastian Kalemba and Phillipp Weber discussed current-gen console compatibility, but offered no specifics. Kalemba confirmed the use of Unreal Engine 5 with custom modifications, stating their aim is to support PC, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms, but further details are unavailable. He suggested the reveal trailer serves as a "good benchmark" for their visual goals, implying the final product may differ.

A New Development Approach

CD Projekt Red's vice president of technology, Charles Tremblay, revealed in a November 29th Eurogamer interview a revised development strategy for Witcher 4, aimed at avoiding the Cyberpunk 2077 launch issues. This involves developing primarily on lower-spec hardware (consoles) to ensure cross-platform compatibility. Simultaneous PC and console releases are likely, though supported consoles remain unconfirmed. While specifics are limited, CD Projekt Red assures fans that they are working towards broad platform support, from low-spec consoles to high-end PCs.