CD Projekt Red addresses the controversy surrounding Ciri's protagonist role in Witcher 4, while remaining tight-lipped about the game's current-gen console compatibility. Read on for the latest updates.
Witcher 4 Development Insights: Addressing Fan Concerns
Ciri's Protagonist Role: A Controversial Choice?
In a December 18th interview with VGC, narrative director Phillipp Weber acknowledged the potential backlash from making Ciri the lead. The expectation of Geralt's continued protagonism is understandable, given his popularity in the previous three games. Weber stated, "We knew it could be controversial...everyone loved playing as Geralt."
While acknowledging this "legitimate concern," Weber defended the decision, emphasizing the opportunity to explore new narrative avenues within the Witcher universe and delve deeper into Ciri's character arc following The Witcher 3. He highlighted Ciri's established presence as a secondary protagonist in the novels and The Witcher 3, positioning her lead role as a natural progression.
Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga added that all will be revealed upon the game's release, hinting at explanations regarding Geralt's fate and other characters' post-Witcher 3 storylines. She stated, "The best answer...will be the game itself."
However, Geralt isn't entirely absent. His voice actor confirmed in August 2024 that he will appear, albeit in a supporting role, alongside new and returning characters.
Console Compatibility Remains Unclear
A December 18th Eurogamer interview with director Sebastian Kalemba and Phillipp Weber offered little clarification on current-gen console compatibility. While confirming the use of Unreal Engine 5 and a custom build, Kalemba stated, "I cannot...tell you more specifics regarding" platform support. He suggested the reveal trailer serves as a "good benchmark" for their visual aspirations, implying the final product may differ.
A New Development Approach
In a November 29th Eurogamer interview, CDPR's vice president of technology, Charles Tremblay, detailed a revised development strategy aimed at preventing a repeat of Cyberpunk 2077's troubled launch. This involves prioritizing development on lower-spec hardware (consoles) to ensure broader platform compatibility. Simultaneous PC and console releases are likely, though specific console support remains unconfirmed.
Despite the lack of concrete details, CDPR assures fans that they are committed to bringing Witcher 4 to a wide range of platforms, from low-spec consoles to high-end PCs.
