When Is Witcher 4 Coming Out? Release Date Predictions and Rumors

The Witcher series has captivated millions with its immersive world, intricate characters, and thrilling adventures, making the anticipation for Witcher 4 sky-high. With CD Projekt Red confirming that a new Witcher game is in development, fans are eager to know when they can expect the next installment. Although no official release date has been announced, speculation and rumors have given players plenty to think about. In this article, we’ll explore everything we know so far about Witcher 4’s release date, development timeline, and what players might expect from the upcoming game.

Development and Announcements

In March 2022, CD Projekt Red announced that they had started development on a new Witcher game. The confirmation came alongside a significant revelation — the new game would be built using Unreal Engine 5, marking a shift from the company’s in-house REDengine used for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Cyberpunk 2077. This move is expected to enhance the game’s graphical fidelity and performance, providing players with a richer, more immersive experience.

CD Projekt Red also emphasized that this new entry would not necessarily be Witcher 4 in the traditional sense. Instead, it will mark the beginning of a new saga within the Witcher universe. While this suggests that the new game could explore different characters and storylines, it doesn’t rule out the possibility of returning to familiar faces, such as Geralt of Rivia, in some capacity.

Release Date Predictions

So, when is Witcher 4 coming out? Given the timeline of CD Projekt Red’s previous projects and industry trends, it’s unlikely that we’ll see Witcher 4 before 2025 at the earliest. Game development cycles for AAA titles often take several years, and the decision to switch to a new engine may add further complexity to the development process.

If we look at the timeline for The Witcher 3, which was announced in 2013 and released in 2015, a two- to three-year development window post-announcement seems plausible. However, Cyberpunk 2077 experienced several delays, highlighting the potential challenges in game development. Given the lessons learned from Cyberpunk 2077 and CD Projekt Red’s commitment to avoiding similar issues, it’s possible that the studio will take extra time to ensure a polished, high-quality product.

Rumors and Speculation

While official details on the new Witcher game remain scarce, rumors are swirling about the possible storyline and gameplay elements. Some speculate that the new game may focus on Ciri, one of the most beloved characters in the franchise, given her established powers and potential for future growth. Others believe that the game could introduce an entirely new protagonist, exploring different aspects of The Witcher’s expansive lore.

In terms of gameplay, fans can expect to see the open-world format that made The Witcher 3 so successful, likely with even more refined mechanics. The use of Unreal Engine 5 hints at more dynamic environments, improved combat systems, and potentially even more choices in how players shape their world.

What to Expect

While a concrete release date for Witcher 4 has yet to be confirmed, it’s clear that CD Projekt Red is investing heavily in making the next entry in the series a standout title. With a shift to a new game engine, a new saga in the Witcher universe, and the lessons learned from previous titles, fans have much to look forward to.

In the meantime, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’s next-gen upgrade provides a perfect opportunity to revisit Geralt’s adventures and prepare for what’s to come in Witcher 4. Stay tuned for more updates as CD Projekt Red reveals more details about the highly anticipated game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the expected release date for The Witcher 4?

There is no official release date for The Witcher 4 yet. CD Projekt Red confirmed the game is in development, but it is speculated that the game could be released around 2025 or later, considering the usual AAA game development timelines.

2. Will The Witcher 4 continue Geralt’s story?

While The Witcher 4 has not been confirmed to focus on Geralt, CD Projekt Red has stated that the new game will begin a new saga in the Witcher universe. This could mean new characters or a different focus within the same world.

3. What engine is being used for The Witcher 4?

The upcoming Witcher game will be developed using Unreal Engine 5, marking a shift from the REDengine previously used for The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077.

4. Will The Witcher 4 be available on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S?

Although specific platforms have not been announced, it’s highly likely that The Witcher 4 will be released on next-gen consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, as well as PC, given CD Projekt Red’s history of multi-platform releases.

5. Can I play as Ciri in The Witcher 4?

There is speculation that Ciri could be the protagonist in the next Witcher game, but CD Projekt Red has not confirmed this. Fans of the series will have to wait for official announcements about the main character.

6. Will The Witcher 4 be open-world like The Witcher 3?

While nothing has been confirmed, it is expected that The Witcher 4 will maintain the open-world structure that was a hallmark of The Witcher 3, possibly with even more expansive and interactive environments due to advancements in technology.

7. Is The Witcher 4 the official title of the next game?

No, The Witcher 4 is not the official title. CD Projekt Red has referred to the next Witcher game as the start of a new saga, so the official title may differ.