The Game Awards 2024 unveiled a stunning six-minute trailer for CD Projekt Red’s highly anticipated The Witcher 4, revealing Ciri as the protagonist of this standalone Witcher story. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game promises a darker, more immersive experience. Let’s delve into everything we’ve learned so far.
Ciri’s New Journey
alt text: Ciri, the protagonist of The Witcher 4, stands in a dark forest, sword in hand.
The trailer’s focal point was the Witcher herself, bearing a striking resemblance to Ciri. CD Projekt Red confirmed her identity, stating, “This marks the beginning of a new Witcher saga with Ciri stepping into the role of the protagonist.” She will be the heart of this new chapter.
Game Director Sebastian Kalemba expressed the team’s excitement, emphasizing Ciri’s deserving role and the natural progression of her story. “In this game, we want to explore what it means to truly become a Witcher by following Ciri on her Path,” Kalemba explained. The trailer offers a glimpse into Ciri’s journey and the dark, gritty world she inhabits.
The story begins with Ciri accepting a contract in a remote village plagued by a monster demanding human sacrifices. The trailer showcases the lingering distrust towards Witchers, but Ciri intervenes to save a young girl chosen as the next sacrifice. Ciri’s attempt to rescue the girl highlights the delicate balance between hope and tragedy characteristic of Witcher tales.
A Glimpse into Combat
alt text: Ciri battles a monstrous creature in The Witcher 4, utilizing her sword and magical abilities.
The trailer showcases an intense battle between Ciri and the monstrous creature, highlighting her evolving abilities. While proficient with a sword, Ciri also utilizes signs and potions learned during her time with Geralt and the Witchers of Kaer Morhen. The fight culminates in a spectacular display of Ciri’s magical prowess, hinting at the exciting combat awaiting players.
The Witcher 3’s Canonical Ending
alt text: Ciri, dressed in Witcher gear, stands in a snowy landscape.
The Witcher 4 establishes one of The Witcher 3’s endings as canon. While multiple endings exist in The Witcher 3, the one where Ciri becomes a Witcher is now the official continuation. This ending is achieved by making specific choices throughout The Witcher 3, ultimately leading Ciri to embrace the Witcher path.
alt text: Ciri, in Witcher attire, prepares for battle with her sword drawn.
Geralt’s fate in The Witcher 3 varies depending on his romantic choices, retiring with Triss or Yennefer or continuing as a Witcher. More details about Geralt’s role in The Witcher 4 are yet to be revealed.
CD Projekt Red’s official description of The Witcher 4 highlights the single-player, open-world RPG experience: “At the start of a new saga, players take on the role of Ciri and embark on a journey through a brutal dark fantasy world. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, it aims to be the most immersive and ambitious open-world Witcher game to date.”
The Future of the Witcher Saga
The Witcher 4 promises an exciting new chapter in the Witcher saga, with Ciri at the helm. While many questions remain unanswered, the trailer offers a tantalizing glimpse into the dark and dangerous world awaiting players.
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