Highlights
- Witcher 4 production set to start, following the successful Witcher series.
- Transition to Unreal Engine for the upcoming Witcher game.
- Cyberpunk 2077 sequel, ‘Project Orion’, in conceptual phase.
- Company exploring AI integration in game development processes.
CD Projekt Red, the renowned video game developer based in Poland, is setting the stage for an exciting phase in its storied history.
Adam Badowski, the company’s newly appointed joint CEO, has announced the imminent commencement of the production phase for the latest game in the celebrated “Witcher” series, as per a statement given to Reuters.
The Witcher Saga Continues
The company, in a significant revelation made in March 2022, declared that the next game in the Witcher series, codenamed Polaris, would be the pioneering chapter of a new trilogy, hinting at the eventual development of Witcher titles 4, 5, and 6.
This new installment is eagerly awaited, following the immense success of the previous Witcher games, which have collectively sold over 75 million copies since the first game’s release in 2007.
A notable shift in development approach is the adoption of Epic Games’ Unreal Engine for the upcoming Witcher game, moving away from CD Projekt Red’s in-house REDengine, which was instrumental in creating past Witcher titles and Cyberpunk 2077.
Pre-Production Progress
As of May, the studio had completed the “research phase” for The Witcher 4.
The team is currently focusing its resources on the pre-production of this new RPG series while simultaneously working on the Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty expansion.
While the exact release date for Polaris remains under wraps, industry predictions suggest a launch window around 2026 or 2027.
This means fans might have to wait a bit longer for a major release from CD Projekt Red.
Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel on the Horizon
In addition to the Witcher series, Badowski shed light on the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, currently referred to as “Project Orion.”
The sequel is in its conceptual phase, with plans to involve about 80 team members by the end of the year.
The project might feature multiplayer elements, though details are yet to be finalized.
The company had initially planned a standalone Cyberpunk multiplayer game but opted against it following the original game’s challenging release.
Badowski also spoke about the company’s exploration into AI’s role in game development, emphasizing its potential to enhance production processes.
At the same time, he addressed concerns about increasing wage pressures, noting that the situation has stabilized and minimal hiring is expected within its Polish studio.
However, expansion continues at its North American studio.
FAQs
What is CD Projekt Red’s plan for the Witcher series?
CD Projekt Red is gearing up to start production on the next game in the Witcher series, codenamed Polaris, which marks the beginning of a new trilogy in this successful saga.
What engine is being used for the upcoming Witcher game?
The next Witcher game, Polaris, will be developed using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine, moving away from CD Projekt Red’s proprietary REDengine.
What are the details about the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel?
The sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, known as ‘Project Orion’, is currently in its conceptual phase with plans to involve a significant team by the end of the year, potentially including multiplayer elements.
When can we expect the release of Witcher 4?
While no specific release date has been announced, industry analysts predict that Witcher 4 might not be released until 2026 or 2027.
Is CD Projekt Red exploring new technologies in game development?
Yes, CD Projekt Red is looking into the application of AI to enhance game production processes, though they emphasize AI will augment rather than replace human creativity and effort.
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