
CD Projekt Red is setting a new standard for NPC development in The Witcher 4. After facing criticism regarding the NPCs in Cyberpunk 2077 and the stereotypical characters in The Witcher 3, the studio aims to create a truly immersive and believable world.
Game director Sebastian Kalemba outlined their new approach: “Our rule is: every NPC should appear to be living their own life, with their own unique story.”
This commitment is evident in the first trailer, showcasing the secluded village of Stromford. Villagers adhere to local superstitions, worshipping a forest deity. A scene depicts a girl praying in the woods until Ciri arrives to battle a monster.
Kalemba further emphasized their goal: “We aim for maximum realism in our NPCs – from their appearance and facial expressions to their behavior. This will create a deeper level of immersion than ever before. We're striving for unparalleled quality.”
The developers plan to imbue each village and character with distinct characteristics and narratives, reflecting the unique beliefs and cultural nuances of isolated communities.
The Witcher 4 is slated for a 2025 release, and anticipation is high among fans eager to see how this revamped approach to world and character design will unfold.