CD Projekt Red is raising the bar for NPC development in The Witcher 4 to unprecedented heights. Following feedback on Cyberpunk 2077's NPCs and the somewhat stereotypical characters in The Witcher 3, the studio is committed to crafting a truly vibrant and believable world.
Game director Sebastian Kalemba outlined their new approach in a recent interview:
“Our guiding principle is: every NPC should appear to be living their own life, with their own unique story.”
This vision is evident in the first trailer, showcasing the secluded village of Stromford. Villagers adhere to local superstitions, revering a forest deity. One scene depicts a girl adorned with twigs, praying in the shadowy woods until Ciri arrives to battle a monster.
“We're striving for maximum realism in our NPCs – from their physical appearance to their facial expressions and actions. This will create an even more immersive experience than ever before. We're aiming for a new standard of excellence.”
The developers emphasize that each village and character will possess distinct traits and narratives, reflecting the beliefs and cultural nuances of isolated communities.
The Witcher 4 is slated for a 2025 release, and fans are anxiously anticipating further details on the game's innovative approach to world-building and character design.
