Witcher 4: CD Projekt's Smart 'Console-First' Strategy Revealed

CD Projekt has revealed a console-first development approach for the highly anticipated game, The Witcher 4, a shift from their traditional PC-first strategy. This change aims to avoid issues faced during the turbulent launch of Cyberpunk 2077 when performance on consoles, particularly last-gen systems, received backlash. The recently showcased tech demo, captured on PlayStation 5, highlighted stunning graphics powered by Unreal Engine 5, featuring Ciri exploring the new region of Kovir, showcasing intricate animations and an impressive NPC count. CD Projekt emphasizes the need to build a solid console foundation before scaling up to PC, ensuring that gamers on both platforms will have an enriching experience, despite challenges with maintaining performance on less powerful consoles.

CD Projekt Red is adopting a console-first approach for The Witcher 4 to resolve previous performance issues experienced with Cyberpunk 2077's console versions. By prioritizing console development, they aim to create a stable foundation that can be adapted for PC without compromising quality.

The Witcher series has garnered a massive following due to its deep storytelling, open-world exploration, and memorable characters. The original title gained popularity for its rich narrative and immersive gameplay, while its subsequent entries expanded the universe further. With the launch of The Witcher 4 scheduled potentially for 2027, expectations are high, especially following the recovery of Cyberpunk 2077's reputation post-launch challenges.