Geralt of Rivia, the iconic Witcher, is confirmed to return in The Witcher 4, according to voice actor Doug Cockle. However, this time, the spotlight shifts away from the grizzled monster hunter.
Geralt's Role in The Witcher 4
While Geralt's presence is assured, his role will be significantly less prominent. Cockle himself stated in an interview with Fall Damage that the game "won't focus on Geralt; it's not about him this time." This confirms a departure from previous entries, where Geralt was the undisputed protagonist.
Who's the New Protagonist?
The identity of The Witcher 4's protagonist remains a mystery. Cockle admits, "We don’t know who it’s about," fueling speculation about a new character taking the lead.
Intriguing clues exist. A teaser showcasing a Cat School medallion buried in the snow hints at a potential connection to surviving members of that order, known for their ruthlessness and vengeance. Ciri, Geralt's adopted daughter, is another strong contender, supported by her possession of a Cat medallion in the books and subtle hints within The Witcher 3. Whether she'll take center stage or if Geralt will serve as a mentor remains to be seen. His involvement might be limited to flashbacks or brief appearances.
Development and Release Date
The Witcher 4, codenamed Polaris, officially began development in 2023. CD Projekt Red's 2023 earnings report revealed a significant portion of their development team—over 400 developers—is dedicated to the project. Despite the substantial investment, CEO Adam Kiciński previously suggested a release date at least three years out, owing to the ambitious scope and the development of new technology within Unreal Engine 5.
Game director Sebastian Kalemba aims to create a game appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans, a challenge that contributes to the extended development timeline. The wait for this new chapter in the Witcher saga will likely be a lengthy one.
