The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt consistently ranks among the best RPGs, often appearing on gamers’ all-time favorites lists. Its popularity, fueled by the Netflix series, has cemented its place in gaming history. While developer CD Projekt Red shifted focus to Cyberpunk 2077 after the third installment, the Witcher universe remains ripe with untold stories. Multiple projects are in development, but the most anticipated is undoubtedly The Witcher 4. So, let’s dive into everything we know about this highly anticipated next chapter.
Ciri entering a dark shadowy cave in The Witcher 4.Image: CD Projekt Red
The Witcher 4 Release Date
The Witcher 4 currently has no official release date or even a release window. Considering the development timelines of The Witcher 3 (around 3.5 to 4 years) and Cyberpunk 2077 (significantly longer), and given the early stage of development, a realistic estimate would be at least three to four years. The game is in the early stages of production, with no gameplay footage or screenshots available to the public.
While fans eagerly await news about Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Civilization VII, The Witcher 4 won’t be joining the Nintendo Switch lineup initially, targeting next-gen consoles and PC instead. A potential release on a future Switch console remains a possibility.
A recent update from CD Projekt Red, shared on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed that Project Polaris (the working title for The Witcher 4) has entered “full-scale production.” This signals a significant step forward, though it doesn’t necessarily change the expected release timeframe. The team’s primary focus is now on this project.
Platform Availability
Ciri in The Witcher 4.Image: CD Projekt Red
No platforms have been officially confirmed. However, based on the projected timeline, The Witcher 4 is expected to be a current-gen title, likely launching on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC simultaneously. CD Projekt Red has confirmed that the game will not be exclusive to any platform. A Switch release, like the surprisingly successful port of The Witcher 3, seems unlikely for this installment due to the anticipated graphical advancements. However, a future release on a more powerful Switch successor can’t be ruled out.
Trailer Analysis
The Game Awards 2024 showcased the first trailer for The Witcher 4. This CGI trailer, while lacking gameplay footage, offered crucial details. The most significant reveal was the confirmation of Ciri as the protagonist, replacing Geralt of Rivia. The trailer depicts an older Ciri, having completed the Trial of Grasses and become a full-fledged Witcher. She’s shown hunting a monstrous creature to whom villagers were sacrificing children. Despite Ciri’s victory, the sacrificed girl tragically dies, highlighting the grim reality often found in Witcher narratives.
Ciri wielding a burning chain in The Witcher 4.Image: CD Projekt Red
While Geralt’s role isn’t central this time, his voice actor, Doug Cockle, confirmed his involvement in the game, though the extent remains unknown. Lines spoken by Geralt in the trailer suggest a potential mentor role for the iconic Witcher.
Gameplay Speculation
Although gameplay details remain scarce, it’s likely that CD Projekt Red will retain the core mechanics that define the Witcher series. The CGI trailer hints at familiar elements like potions, Witcher Signs (magic), and sword combat. Intriguingly, Ciri’s use of a chain, both for ensnaring the monster and seemingly channeling magic, suggests a potential new gameplay mechanic.
Pre-order Information
Pre-orders for The Witcher 4 are not yet available, as the game lacks a release window and confirmed platforms. Information regarding pre-order editions and bonuses will be announced closer to launch. Given the various editions offered for The Witcher 3, fans can anticipate similar options for the upcoming installment.
