The Witcher 4 will surprise with realistic NPCs. “Each character will live their own story”

CD Projekt Red is setting a new standard for NPC development in The Witcher 4. After receiving feedback on Cyberpunk 2077's NPCs and the somewhat stereotypical characters in The Witcher 3, the studio is committed to creating a truly vibrant and believable world.

Game director Sebastian Kalemba outlined their new approach in a recent interview:

“Our guiding principle is: every NPC should appear to be living their own life, with their own unique story.”

This commitment is evident in the first trailer, which showcases the secluded village of Stromford. The villagers are steeped in superstition, worshipping a forest deity. A scene depicts a young girl offering prayers in the forest until Ciri arrives to battle a monster.

“We're aiming for unparalleled realism in our NPCs – from their physical appearance to their facial expressions and behavior. This will create an even more immersive experience than ever before. We're genuinely striving to raise the bar for quality.”

The developers plan to imbue each village and character with distinct traits and narratives, reflecting the unique beliefs and cultural practices of isolated communities.

The Witcher 4 is slated for a 2025 release, and fans are excitedly anticipating further details on the game's innovative approach to world-building and character design.