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 aims to create a truly vibrant and believable world.
Game director Sebastian Kalemba outlined their new philosophy:
“Our guiding principle is that every NPC should feel like they have their own life and story.”
This vision is glimpsed in the debut trailer, showcasing the secluded village of Stromford. Villagers there adhere to unique superstitions, centered around a forest deity. One scene depicts a girl offering prayers in the forest, only to be interrupted by Ciri battling a monster.
Kalemba further emphasized the commitment to realism:
“We're striving for maximum realism in NPCs – from their appearance and facial expressions to their actions. This will deliver an unparalleled level of immersion. We're aiming for a new standard of excellence.”
The developers promise each village and inhabitant 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 keenly anticipating further revelations about the game's innovative approach to world and character building.
