The Witcher 4: Everything We Know So Far

CD Projekt Red is officially returning to the Continent with The Witcher 4, a brand-new open-world RPG that promises to kick off a fresh saga starring none other than Ciri. First revealed during The Game Awards 2024, the game has since drawn major buzz from RPG fans across the world.

With The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt still regarded as one of the best role-playing games ever made, expectations for the sequel are sky-high. CDPR is making big promises—and based on what we've seen so far, they intend to deliver.

Ciri Steps Into the Spotlight

Unlike Geralt’s grizzled veteran vibe, Ciri brings something entirely new to the table. Not only does she possess a strong moral compass and powerful magical abilities, but her youth and inexperience also set up a compelling narrative arc. According to CDPR, The Witcher 4 explores what it truly means to walk the witcher's path—starting from the very beginning.

During the debut trailer, Ciri disrupts a village attempting to perform a dark ritual. The resulting fight sequence with a monstrous creature shows off her nimbleness and magical prowess. The studio confirmed this isn't just a cinematic; it reflects gameplay direction, blending swordplay with mystical abilities in ways we haven't seen before.

What We Know About the Story

While details are scarce, we know this: Ciri is at the center of it all. She’s now the main playable character, and the world around her is undergoing massive change. Ancient horrors stir, old customs clash with new chaos, and survival hinges on both strength and the relationships Ciri builds.

During a recent interview, CDPR’s narrative team emphasized that this new tale isn’t just about monster hunting. It’s about identity, consequence, and the cost of power. As Ciri faces down mythical beasts, she’ll also navigate morally gray choices that ripple through the world.

The port town of Valdrest, nestled in the forested region of Kovir, has been shown in early gameplay demos. It's brimming with NPCs that react to your presence—offering a world that feels alive and unpredictable.

Combat: Ciri’s New Witcher Style

Forget Geralt’s gritty brawling. Ciri’s style is quicker, more magical, and built around tactical movement. The developers describe her combat as a hybrid: swift strikes, precise dodges, and fluid spellcasting.

The cinematic trailer highlights her integrating magic into close-quarters combat. Expect dynamic pacing, with encounters that test both reaction time and strategy. CDPR says combat will also evolve as Ciri grows stronger, unlocking new moves, spells, and possibly gear crafted via a refreshed alchemy system.

World Design and Unreal Engine 5

CD Projekt Red is building The Witcher 4 using Unreal Engine 5—marking a major shift from its REDengine. This change means more detailed environments, better lighting, and smoother animations.

The new open world is said to be roughly the same size as The Witcher 3, but packed with more density and reactivity. Regions will feel distinct and carry their own stories, dangers, and NPC cultures. So far, we've seen deep forests, eerie ruins, and urban centers like Valdrest that pulse with tension and opportunity.

Choices and Consequences: The Core Pillars

One of the standout elements in The Witcher 4 will be player agency. CDPR emphasizes that your decisions—both grand and subtle—will shape the narrative.

Everything from which contracts you accept to how you treat NPCs could ripple into larger world shifts. A director at CDPR mentioned: “Ciri’s story is a battle against destiny. That battle comes at a cost—and sometimes the people closest to you will pay the price.”

Fans can expect branching storylines, moral dilemmas, and moments where doing the right thing might not always feel good.

Will Geralt Return?

While Geralt’s journey officially ended in Wild Hunt, he’s not entirely gone. Voice actor Doug Cockle has signed on for The Witcher 4, confirming some form of involvement.

Whether Geralt will appear through flashbacks, cameos, or side missions remains to be seen. But fans of the White Wolf can take comfort knowing his presence still lingers in Ciri’s journey.

No Release Date Yet

Unfortunately, CD Projekt Red hasn’t revealed a release date. A financial report from March 2025 hinted that The Witcher 4 might not be ready until at least 2027. Considering they just entered full-scale production in late 2024, this isn’t surprising.

Still, development is progressing steadily. CDPR is playing the long game—prioritizing polish and depth over rushing to launch.

Final Thoughts

The Witcher 4 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting RPGs of the decade. With Ciri at the helm, a new engine, and a darker fantasy tone, CDPR is crafting something ambitious and emotionally rich.

For more RPG coverage, check out our recent articles: Black Desert Online: June 2025 Update, Path of Exile 2: Dawn of the Hunt Review, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Preview