When discussing the top RPGs to play currently, The Witcher 3 inevitably comes up. It often ranks high on many gamers’ all-time best games lists, and rightfully so. Originating from the book series of the same name, the initial Witcher game was a standout on PC and has since gained widespread popularity due to the success of the Netflix series. However, after the third installment, CD Projekt Red shifted focus to Cyberpunk 2077, leaving fans wondering if they had seen the last of Geralt.
Despite doubts, it appears there are still untold tales in The Witcher universe, with several projects currently in development. Foremost among them is the highly anticipated The Witcher 4, the next chapter in the saga. Let’s delve into all the information we have on this eagerly awaited upcoming game.
Release Date Speculation
The Witcher 4 currently has no set release date. It’s unclear which year the game might launch, but considering that The Witcher 3 took around three-and-a-half to four years to develop, and Cyberpunk 2077 took even longer, we can assume a similar timeline for The Witcher 4. With development being in its early stages and no gameplay showcased yet, we speculate that the game will likely take at least three to four years before it’s ready.
Platforms
What we have NOT announced today:
– A game called The Witcher 4.
– A game exclusive to one storefront.
It was our initial confirmation of a new saga in The Witcher franchise. Right now, we are not discussing any specifics in terms or story, characters, mechanics, or plot details.— Radek (@gamebowski) March 21, 2022
No platforms have been confirmed yet, but considering the anticipated timeline, The Witcher 4 is likely to be available only on current-gen consoles. It has been confirmed that the game will not be exclusive to any platform. We expect simultaneous releases on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. While The Witcher 3 made its way to the Switch, it’s doubtful for The Witcher 4, unless a future iteration of the Switch supports it.
Trailers
Currently, we have only a single image related to The Witcher 4. It features a glowing wolf necklace, symbolizing a different Witcher school than Geralt’s, partially buried in snow. Additionally, a tweet hints that this game will introduce a new saga in the franchise and may not be titled The Witcher 4. Nevertheless, Geralt’s voice actor, Doug Cockle, hinted that Geralt will still play a role, albeit not the central focus this time.
Gameplay
Although no gameplay footage is available at this time, it’s likely that CD Projekt Red will uphold the core gameplay elements of the series in The Witcher 4. While improvements to combat are anticipated, the expectation is for a third-person, open-world RPG with rich storytelling and compelling characters. Players hope for more intricate decision-making with impactful consequences, rather than a larger world.
Once gameplay demonstrations begin, we can assess any changes and continuities in the gameplay experience.
Preorder
Preorders for The Witcher 4 are still a ways off. With no official title or release timeframe announced yet, it could be a few years before preorders open. Fans of The Witcher 3 had a variety of deluxe editions to choose from, so we anticipate similar options for The Witcher 4 when the time comes.
