The Witcher IV: Gwent’s Return and Ciri’s New Powers Confirmed by CD Projekt RED

The teaser for The Witcher IV left fans buzzing with excitement, and CD Projekt RED has now shared additional details about the game. During a videocast with Easy Allies at The Game Awards 2024, the developers confirmed some fan-favorite elements and expanded on Ciri’s role as the new protagonist.

Gwent Is Back

For fans of Gwent, the card mini-game from the previous Witcher games, rest assured—it’s making a return. According to Gosia Mitręga, VP and Executive Producer at CD Projekt RED:

“We really love the game and we also really carefully always listen to the community, which we love. It's an amazing one. I don't think anyone will be disappointed.”

Game Director Sebastian Kalemba added:

“You know, it's a part of the experience.”

Ciri’s New Powers and Magic Chain

One standout moment from the trailer was Ciri summoning a magical chain. Kalemba elaborated on its significance:

• A nod to Witcher lore:
  The chain references the iconic Striga battle in the first Witcher trailer, where Geralt used a silver chain to fight. In The Witcher IV, this chain is connected to the School of the Lynx, symbolizing Ciri’s evolution as a Witcher.

• Harnessing Elder Blood powers:
  As a Source of magic and a carrier of Elder Blood, Ciri has unique abilities. Unlike Geralt’s simplified Signs, Ciri channels raw elemental energy. For instance, in the trailer, she draws energy from water to create a powerful bolt.

Kalemba explained:

“Ciri is literally using energy. In the trailer, she's taking it out of the water... catalyzing it to create a bolt to defeat the monster.”

The Witcher IV and Wild Hunt Endings

When asked if Ciri becoming a Witcher is the canon ending from The Witcher III: Wild Hunt, Kalemba remained vague but emphasized respect for the series' narrative:

“We will refer to The Wild Hunt endings for sure, because we pay a lot of respect to the canon... The Witcher IV happens a few years after The Wild Hunt. Geralt will appear, and who knows who else.”

What to Expect?

CD Projekt RED teased several exciting features for The Witcher IV:

• Enhanced monster hunting:
  A more intricate system for hunting monsters will be central to the game, aligning with the series' roots.

• Diverse environments:
  The trailer’s snowy village in the far North will be part of the explorable world, promising a rich, immersive setting.

While no release date has been set, The Witcher IV is shaping up to be an ambitious entry in the franchise. Fans can look forward to a mix of fresh gameplay mechanics, classic elements like Gwent, and a deep dive into Ciri’s journey.

Are you excited for Gwent’s return or intrigued by Ciri’s new powers? Let us know your thoughts below!