CD Projekt has taken a significant leap forward in the development of the highly-anticipated The Witcher 4, now officially referred to as Project Polaris. The studio has transitioned into full-scale production, with an overwhelming majority of its development team—approximately 400 individuals—dedicated to this venture. This marks a critical moment for CD Projekt, as they have brought two-thirds of their development staff into this intense phase of creation. Michał Nowakowski, the co-CEO, expressed pride in the team’s dedication during a recent financial presentation, indicating that the groundwork has been firmly laid for what is set to be an expansive and intricate gaming experience.
While details about the game remain sparse, certain elements have sparked considerable excitement among fans. Notably, the protagonist from previous installments, Geralt of Rivia, will not be the focal point this time around. Instead, CD Projekt appears to be shifting its narrative spotlight to a new lead character, with early indications suggesting that Ciri may take center stage. This speculation is rooted in the canon conclusion of The Witcher 3, which hinted at a larger narrative arc for her character. The return of Doug Cockle as the voice of Geralt, albeit in a reduced capacity, promises a connection to the beloved characters from preceding games while allowing for exploration of fresh storylines and dynamics.
Beyond the Witcher franchise, CD Projekt is also celebrating achievements in its existing projects. The financial presentation showcased stunning figures for Cyberpunk 2077, reporting total sales surpassing 30 million copies, with its latest expansion, Phantom Liberty, contributing 8 million units to this impressive tally. This resurgence in the Cyberpunk realm hints at a promising future as the studio continues to develop its sequel with a dedicated team of around 64 people.
Furthermore, CD Projekt is not resting on its laurels. The studio has multiple irons in the fire, including collaborations with The Molasses Flood for a Witcher spin-off and an enigmatic new intellectual property referred to as “Project Hadar”. Collectively, these efforts indicate a rekindled sense of ambition and growth within CD Projekt, a company keen on expanding its creative horizons and offering compelling gaming experiences in the years to come.
Despite significant progress, it’s important to temper expectations regarding the timelines for these new projects. Fans may have to wait several years before The Witcher 4 or any other new title becomes accessible. However, the studio’s commitment to quality and dedication to rebuilding its reputation after the tumultuous launch of Cyberpunk 2077 reflects a promising pathway ahead. As CD Projekt embarks on this journey, both the company and its loyal fan base are poised for a fascinating chapter in the saga of The Witcher and beyond, looking forward to the fresh innovations and stories that lie ahead.
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