CD Projekt Red addresses the controversy surrounding Ciri's starring role in Witcher 4, while remaining tight-lipped about current-gen console compatibility. Read on for the latest updates.
Witcher 4 Development Insights
Ciri's Protagonist Role: A Controversial Choice?
In a December 18th interview with VGC, narrative director Phillipp Weber acknowledged the potential backlash of replacing Geralt with Ciri. He admitted the decision "could be controversial" given Geralt's popularity in previous titles.
While acknowledging fans' attachment to Geralt, Weber defended the choice, emphasizing the team's aim to demonstrate Ciri's potential as a protagonist and create a compelling narrative. He explained that this decision wasn't recent, but rather a long-term plan.
Weber further justified the decision by highlighting Ciri's established presence as a secondary protagonist in the novels and Witcher 3. For the developers, it represented "the natural evolution" of the series. The shift allows exploration of new avenues within the Witcher universe and Ciri's own story.
Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga reassured fans that all will be revealed upon release, hinting at explanations for Geralt's role and the fates of other characters post-Witcher 3. She stated that fan concerns stem from "passion for our games," and the game itself will provide the best answers.
However, Geralt isn't entirely absent. His voice actor confirmed in August 2024 that he will feature, albeit in a smaller capacity, alongside new and returning characters. (See our related article for more details.) Our dedicated Witcher 4 article provides further information and updates.
Console Compatibility Remains Unclear
In a separate December 18th Eurogamer interview, director Sebastian Kalemba and Phillipp Weber discussed current-gen console capabilities, but offered no specifics.
Kalemba confirmed the use of Unreal Engine 5 and a custom build, stating a desire to support PC, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms. However, he declined to provide further details on console support.
He suggested the reveal trailer serves as a "good benchmark" for the team's aspirations, implying that the trailer's visuals don't fully represent the final game's graphics, though it offers a glimpse of the target visuals.
A New Development Approach
CD Projekt Red's vice president of technology, Charles Tremblay, revealed in a November 29th Eurogamer interview that the Witcher 4 development process has shifted to avoid repeating Cyberpunk 2077's launch issues.
The team is developing on lower-spec hardware (consoles) to ensure cross-platform compatibility. A simultaneous PC and console release is likely, though specific console support remains unconfirmed.
While remaining cautious about revealing supported platforms, the developers reassured fans that they are working to ensure the game runs smoothly on both lower-spec consoles and high-end PCs.
