Breakdown
- Two-thirds of CD Projekt Red's staff, over 400 developers, are now working on The Witcher 4, codenamed Polaris.
- This marks the official transition of Polaris from pre-production to full production, scheduled to begin in the second half of 2024.
- The Witcher 4 is the first instalment in a brand new Witcher trilogy.
In a recent earnings conference, CD Projekt Red revealed a significant shift in focus towards The Witcher 4, codenamed Polaris. This exciting news indicates a major step forward for the highly anticipated sequel.
The studio has significantly bolstered the development team for Polaris. As of now, over 400 developers are dedicated to bringing the next Witcher instalment to life. This surpasses the team size that worked on Cyberpunk 2077, making Polaris CD Projekt Red's biggest project yet.
This ramp-up coincides with the completion of Cyberpunk 2077's upcoming expansion, Phantom Liberty. With that project nearing release, resources are being strategically allocated.
The influx of developers signifies the official transition of Polaris from pre-production to full production. This critical phase is scheduled to kick off in the second half of 2024. While a release date remains under wraps, this update suggests a potential announcement sometime next year.
Polaris isn't just another sequel; it marks the beginning of a brand new Witcher trilogy. Fans can expect a fresh chapter in the beloved fantasy universe, built upon the groundwork laid by the previous games.
The dedication of such a large team to Polaris underscores CD Projekt Red's current priorities. The Witcher 4 is clearly the studio's main focus, and with development well underway, anticipation for this next adventure in the Continent is sure to rise.
While details about Polaris remain scarce, CD Projekt Red's commitment to the project is undeniable. The studio has learned valuable lessons from the development of Cyberpunk 2077, and these experiences are likely being applied to ensure a smoother development cycle for Polaris.
It's also worth noting the ongoing development of another Witcher project, codenamed Project Sirius. This separate title is being handled by The Molasses Flood studio, a subsidiary of CD Projekt Red.
While details remain shrouded in secrecy, Project Sirius' continued development suggests a multi-pronged approach to expanding The Witcher universe. Also, learn how the company is focusing The Witcher 4's console ports.