CD Projekt Red has announced that Ciri will take center stage in The Witcher 4, marking a significant and logical evolution in the series' narrative. Executive producer Malgorzata Mitrega explained that the shift from Geralt to Ciri is driven by both the progression of the game series and the themes present in Andrzej Sapkowski's original novels.
Mitrega highlighted that Geralt's journey reached its conclusion in The Witcher 3, setting the stage for Ciri, whose character offers vast potential for new storylines. With her rich development in both the books and previous games, Ciri's depth and complexity provide a fertile ground for innovative storytelling and gameplay. Director Sebastian Kalemba pointed out that Ciri's younger age allows players greater flexibility in shaping her character, a freedom not possible with the more established persona of Geralt.
Interestingly, the idea of transitioning the protagonist from Geralt to Ciri has been in discussion at CD Projekt Red for nearly a decade. This long-term planning underscores the studio's vision of Ciri as the rightful successor to Geralt. Kalemba further noted that the fresh challenges and perspectives Ciri brings to the table will pave the way for an epic new saga.
Doug Cockle, the voice actor behind Geralt, has expressed his support for this shift, emphasizing Ciri's immense potential as a lead character. While Geralt will make an appearance in the new game, he will no longer be the central figure, thereby enhancing the focus on Ciri's new narrative perspective.
