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 in a recent interview:
“Our guiding principle is: every NPC should appear to be living their own life, with their own unique story.”
This commitment is evident in the debut trailer, showcasing the secluded village of Stromford. Villagers there adhere to local superstitions, revering a forest deity. One scene depicts a young girl offering prayers in the forest 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 behaviors. This will create a level of immersion unlike anything seen before. We're genuinely aiming for a new standard of quality.”
Developers emphasize that each village and its inhabitants will possess distinct traits and narratives, reflecting the unique beliefs and cultural practices of isolated communities.
The Witcher 4 is slated for a 2025 release, and fans are anxiously anticipating further information on the game's innovative approach to world-building and character design.
