The first trailer already shows Ciri facing significant challenges. On her path to becoming a professional Witcher, she will have to endure perilous situations and battle monsters, as evidenced by the intense combat scene in the opening video. While the official website currently offers only limited information, the trailer description provides key details: “The Witcher IV is a new single-player open-world RPG. As the main character, Ciri embarks on her own journey to become a monster slayer.” The trailer was created in collaboration with PlatigeImage, a name familiar to fans of the series.
Ciri’s Journey as a Witcher
Game director Sebastian Kalemba explained that the team spent considerable time deliberating on how to tell a story that gives Ciri her chance to shine. Following the events of the third game, Ciri has undergone the infamous Trial of the Grasses, preparing her for the harsh challenges of a Witcher’s life. Unlike Geralt, however, she is just beginning her path, giving players the opportunity to shape her character and choices.
The game promises a deeper level of choice and consequence than ever before. Players will face not only monstrous foes but also moral dilemmas that will influence the narrative. As hinted at in a scene from the trailer involving the death of a girl, decisions will be more intricate, and their repercussions more profound, than in previous games.
Cyberpunk Inspiration and a New Direction for the Series
Developers emphasize that The Witcher IV will draw on mechanics and character development approaches successfully implemented in Cyberpunk 2077 and its expansion, Phantom Liberty. Players will have greater freedom in how they approach character building and mission solving, increasing the potential for experimentation and variety.
While striving to bring freshness to the series, the studio is committed to preserving its essence. The game aims to be accessible to a new generation of players while staying true to the rich storytelling and immersive atmosphere that define The Witcher franchise.
Caution Learned from Cyberpunk’s Launch
This time, CD Projekt RED promises a more cautious marketing approach. Following the challenges of Cyberpunk 2077’s premature release, the studio has decided to be more transparent about the development process and manage expectations accordingly. The Witcher IV only recently entered full production, meaning fans will need to be patient for its release. The team, however, stresses that the goal is to release the game “when it’s ready.”
The Beginning of a New Chapter
The Witcher IV aims to bridge the gap between the old and the new. For long-time fans, it’s a return to a familiar world, while a new generation of players will have the chance to explore it for the first time. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer, Ciri’s story offers a unique opportunity to shape her journey, define her values, and influence the future of a world set to come alive once again under the guidance of CD Projekt RED.
