New Protagonist Ciri Set to Lead The Witcher 4 by 2027

Anticipation is building for the next chapter in the acclaimed fantasy series as CD Projekt Red (CDPR) gears up for the release of The Witcher 4. Fans have been eagerly awaiting this installment since the success of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which established CDPR as a leader in role-playing game development. While the studio has not officially confirmed a release date, various indicators suggest that the game could launch as early as 2027.

CDPR’s strategic planning plays a crucial role in this timeline. In 2022, the studio announced a new trilogy for The Witcher under the code name Polaris, aiming to release all three games within a six-year period. During a financial briefing in November 2025, co-CEO Michał Nowakowski reiterated the commitment to deliver The Witcher 4, The Witcher 5, and The Witcher 6 within this timeframe. Although no specific dates were provided, Nowakowski confirmed that The Witcher 4 had entered full-scale production in November 2024.

The development process aligns with the typical five-year cycle for large-scale open-world RPGs, suggesting a completion timeframe extending into late 2029. However, CDPR clarified that Polaris will not launch before 2027, effectively ruling out a 2026 release. CFO Piotr Nielubowicz confirmed that the game falls outside the company’s incentive program, which concludes in December 2026, further solidifying expectations for a 2027 launch.

As for the narrative direction, CDPR has revealed that Ciri will take on the role of protagonist in the upcoming game. This shift means that Geralt, while still present in the storyline, will not be the central character. Ciri’s journey aligns with the “best” ending of the previous game, where she survives and chooses the path of a witcher. The role of Ciri will be voiced by Ciara Berkeley, replacing original voice actor Jo Wyatt.

The setting for The Witcher 4 will primarily focus on the previously unexplored northern regions of Kovir and Poviss. Known for its wealth and distinctive geography, the area offers potential for fresh narratives and the introduction of new schools of witchers. A teaser featuring a feline-like medallion hints at the emergence of the School of the Lynx, which is likely associated with Ciri.

In terms of technology, CDPR’s transition to Unreal Engine 5 marks a significant shift from the in-house REDengine. This move, which has been in progress for nearly four years, allows the studio to utilize advanced tools and techniques, enhancing the development process. An earlier tech demo showcased the engine’s capabilities, including detailed environments and realistic lighting, underscoring the studio’s commitment to quality.

The combination of a compelling new protagonist, a rich narrative world, and cutting-edge technology positions CDPR favorably for the ambitious timeline of the Polaris trilogy. The shift towards Ciri and the adoption of Unreal Engine 5 indicate a new chapter for the franchise, with The Witcher 4 poised to redefine the series when it launches in 2027.