The Witcher 4 Devs Knew Replacing Geralt Could Be Controversial
CD Projekt Red has openly acknowledged that the decision to change the protagonist in The Witcher 4 was always expected to divide fans. In a recent interview, narrative director Philipp Weber addressed reactions to the reveal trailer, which confirmed Ciri as the new lead character in the series.
Weber noted that he understands the concerns expressed by some fans, as he himself enjoyed playing as Geralt in the previous trilogy.
He stated that they definitely knew it could be controversial for some people because, in the previous three Witcher games, Geralt was the protagonist, and everyone really loved playing as Geralt.
Importance: Geralt has long been the face of The Witcher series, making the decision to replace him understandably controversial. However, this bold move by CD Projekt Red has the potential to take the franchise in a fresh and innovative direction, ensuring its evolution and continued success.
The trailer has accumulated over 3.7 million views on YouTube, with 250,000 likes and 25,000 dislikes, highlighting both excitement and reservations within the community.
Weber emphasized that the team aims to prove their choice was the right one by showcasing all the creative possibilities Ciri brings to the series.
“This decision to have Ciri as a protagonist wasn’t made yesterday. We started making this a very long time ago.”
He further added that Ciri’s role in Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels and her prominence in The Witcher 3 made this shift feel like a natural progression.
For fans attached to Geralt, Weber said the change allows CD Projekt Red to honor the character’s conclusion in The Witcher 3 and its Blood and Wine expansion, while opening new storytelling avenues about what it means to become a Witcher with Ciri’s journey.
Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga added that many fans have also expressed excitement and understanding of the choice, and that the best answer for this will be the game itself when it releases.
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