Ciri's Role in Witcher 4 Explored

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

Witcher 4 Development Insights from CDPR

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 understands the strong attachment players have to Geralt, calling concerns about the change "legitimate."

However, Weber defends the decision, stating that making Ciri the protagonist allows for exciting new narrative avenues within the Witcher universe. He emphasizes that this wasn't a recent decision, but rather a long-term plan, built upon Ciri's established role in previous games and novels. The team views it as a natural progression.

Weber points to Ciri's evolution as a secondary protagonist in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and the novels as justification. He believes this choice unlocks fresh storytelling opportunities for both Ciri and the wider Witcher world.

Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga assures fans that the game's narrative will provide answers regarding Geralt's fate and other characters' storylines post-Witcher 3. She suggests that the game itself will be the ultimate explanation for this creative choice.

Geralt's return is confirmed, albeit in a supporting role. This allows for the introduction and development of both new and returning characters in Witcher 4. (See our previous article for more details on Geralt's involvement!)

For further information and the latest updates on Witcher 4, check out our dedicated article.

Console Compatibility Remains Unclear

In a separate Eurogamer interview (December 18th), director Sebastian Kalemba and Phillipp Weber remained vague about current-gen console support. While confirming the use of Unreal Engine 5 and a custom build, they avoided specifics regarding platform compatibility (PC, Xbox, and PlayStation).

Kalemba clarified that the reveal trailer serves as a "benchmark" for the game's visual aspirations, implying that the final product may differ. The Game Awards trailer offers a closer approximation of the target visuals.

A New Development Approach

CDPR's vice president of technology, Charles Tremblay, revealed in a November 29th Eurogamer interview that the development process for Witcher 4 has shifted to prevent a repeat of the Cyberpunk 2077 launch issues. The team is now prioritizing development on lower-spec hardware (consoles) to ensure cross-platform compatibility. A simultaneous release on PC and consoles is likely, though supported platforms remain unconfirmed.

While specifics are still under wraps, CD Projekt Red reassures fans that they are striving for broad platform support, encompassing both low-spec consoles and high-end PCs.