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 approach in a recent interview:
“Our guiding principle is that 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 there adhere to local superstitions, venerating 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 deliver an unparalleled level of immersion. We're truly aiming for a new standard of excellence.”
The developers intend to imbue each village and character with 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 details on the game's innovative approach to world-building and character design.
