The anticipation surrounding The Witcher 4 has finally culminated in a reveal, showcased through an exciting trailer at the 2024 Game Awards. While it remains uncertain whether the lengthy wait will ultimately pay off, fans can take solace in the fact that the next installment in this beloved franchise is officially on the horizon. It has been almost ten years since the last game graced our screens, a period during which CD Projekt Red shifted its focus primarily to Cyberpunk 2077, leaving many eager players longing for more adventures in the Witcher universe.
For many years, Geralt of Rivia has been synonymous with The Witcher series, but now the spotlight is shifting to Cirilla Fiona Elen Riannon, affectionately known as “Ciri.” As the new lead protagonist in The Witcher 4, Ciri is set to embark on her own unique journey, marking a significant transition in the narrative. While the specifics of the gameplay and the world in The Witcher 4 remain a mystery, fans can anticipate a fresh and original storyline that diverges from the familiar paths explored in previous games, thanks to Ciri’s prominent role.
The Witcher 4 Should Be the First of a Ciri Trilogy
The Witcher 4 Is the Start of a New Saga for the Series
Although it carries the name The Witcher 4, the upcoming installment in the Witcher franchise marks the beginning of a completely new saga, specifically a fresh trilogy. This shift is evident in the decision to center the narrative around Ciri, allowing Geralt of Rivia to take a well-earned break. While Geralt will still make appearances throughout the game, the focus will primarily be on Ciri’s journey, indicating a significant change in perspective and storytelling.
While The Witcher 4 is likely to delve much deeper into Ciri’s character than any installment before it, it arguably shouldn’t act as both the beginning and conclusion of her tale, and should instead allow her story to continue in future games.
Once known as “Polaris,” The Witcher 4 was officially announced by CD Projekt Red a few years back, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the Witcher franchise. The developers revealed that this upcoming title would not only be the first in a new saga but also the precursor to two additional AAA Witcher games that are set to follow. At the time of the announcement, the title of the game was still under wraps, but it has since been confirmed that The Witcher 4 is indeed the game they were referring to.
Ciri Deserves Her Time to Shine, Just as Geralt Had His
While Geralt has enjoyed significant attention and recognition, becoming synonymous with The Witcher franchise, Ciri has had a more limited opportunity to showcase her character. Although she was introduced to the series prior to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, it is this game that has primarily served as her platform. In this installment, players have the chance to control Ciri for a short period, allowing for a glimpse into her character. Despite this deeper exploration in the third game, she has often remained overshadowed by Geralt’s prominence in the narrative.
It goes without saying that Ciri is more than deserving of the prominent role she has been awarded in both The Witcher 5 and The Witcher 6, much like Geralt was given his own trilogy. While there might be speculation about the possibility of another Witcher taking her place in future installments or even Geralt making a return to the forefront for various narrative reasons, such a shift would be unwarranted. Ciri has demonstrated in The Witcher 3 that her character is rich and multifaceted, and it is through a dedicated trilogy that her story can be fully explored and appreciated.