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 is committed to crafting 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 vision is subtly showcased in the initial trailer, focusing on the secluded village of Stromford. Villagers adhere to local superstitions, revering a forest deity. A poignant scene depicts a young girl offering prayers in the shadowed woods, only to be interrupted by Ciri's arrival to battle a monstrous threat.
"Our goal is unparalleled realism—from physical appearance and facial expressions to behavioral patterns. This will create a level of immersion unlike anything we've achieved before. We're striving for a new benchmark in quality."
The developers emphasize that each village and its inhabitants will possess distinctive traits and narratives, reflecting the beliefs and cultural nuances of isolated communities.
The Witcher 4's anticipated 2025 release has fans eagerly anticipating further revelations about the game's innovative approach to world-building and character design.
