The highly anticipated announcement of The Witcher 4 has finally come to fruition at The Game Awards 2024, accompanied by an impressive cinematic trailer featuring Cirilla, affectionately known as Ciri, as the main protagonist.
In this new installment of the Witcher saga, fans will see Ciri, now older and more mature than her previous appearance in The Witcher 3. The storyline kicks off in a small village where she intervenes to prevent a young woman from being sacrificed to a monster, showcasing her growth into a formidable witcheress.
Game director Sebastian Kalemba shared insights behind the decision to center the narrative on Ciri. He emphasized that the choice was deliberate and part of a long-term vision that was in discussions nearly a decade ago. “Ciri truly deserves a stage,” Kalemba stated, highlighting the depth and challenges in her story that promise to captivate players. “The amount of challenges that are in front of her give us so much amazing energy and fuel to create an epic saga.”
There are considerations regarding the narrative continuity with The Witcher 3, particularly related to the game’s multiple endings, including one where Ciri can perish. However, franchise and lore designer Cian Maher reassured fans that the storyline will honor the established lore, hinting that elements of her survival exist within that narrative.
While no specific release date has been set, CD Projekt Red has indicated that The Witcher 4 could debut within one to two years following today’s announcement. This timeline gives fans hope that they’ll soon embark on new adventures in the beloved universe.
A new voice actress for Ciri has also been confirmed, though her identity remains undisclosed.
As fans eagerly await further updates, there is palpable excitement surrounding the return of The Witcher, and many are optimistic about the rich storytelling and engaging gameplay that awaits.
In summary, The Witcher 4 promises to bring Ciri’s journey to the forefront, allowing players to experience her evolution and challenges in a fresh and thrilling narrative. The reveal underscores a commitment to honoring the franchise’s legacy while providing new experiences for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.