CD Projekt Red has announced that Ciri will take center stage in the highly anticipated The Witcher 4, marking a significant shift in the series' narrative direction. Executive producer Malgorzata Mitrega explained that this transition from Geralt to Ciri is a natural evolution, driven by both the progression of the game series and the rich tapestry of Andrzej Sapkowski's original works.
Mitrega highlighted that Geralt's story arc reached its conclusion in The Witcher 3, setting the stage for Ciri to step into the spotlight. With her well-developed character in both the books and the games, Ciri offers a depth and complexity that opens up a myriad of creative possibilities for the developers. Director Sebastian Kalemba pointed out that Ciri's younger age provides players with greater freedom to shape her character, a flexibility that was not possible with the more established Geralt.
Interestingly, the idea of shifting the protagonist to Ciri has been in discussion for nearly a decade, underscoring CD Projekt Red's long-term vision of her as Geralt's natural successor. Kalemba also mentioned that the new challenges and perspectives Ciri will face are poised to forge an equally epic new saga.
Actor Doug Cockle, the voice behind Geralt, has expressed his support for this decision, emphasizing Ciri's immense potential as a central character. While Geralt will still make an appearance in the new game, he will no longer be the focal point, thereby shifting the narrative focus to Ciri's journey.