CD Projekt Red Refines Expectations for The Witcher 4: Target Window Set for 2028

The gaming world continues to wait with bated breath for the next chapter in CD Projekt Red’s acclaimed fantasy franchise. More than a year after the studio first signaled that the next entry in the series would likely arrive “after 2026,” new details have emerged regarding the development timeline of the title currently known as The Witcher 4.

In a recent communication to fans, the studio confirmed that while it will be present at Gamescom Opening Night, it will not be showcasing The Witcher 4. Instead, the spotlight will be directed toward The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt—Songs of the Past.

A Massive Undertaking

Michał Nowakowski, joint-CEO of CD Projekt Red, took to social media and a dedicated video update to provide clarity on the project’s scope. Describing the upcoming title as the studio’s “biggest, boldest, and most ambitious game to date,” Nowakowski confirmed that the development team has swelled to include over 500 developers and artists.

While the studio has yet to cement an exact release date, they have provided a clearer outlook: the team is currently working toward a 2028 release window. Nowakowski emphasized that this remains a target rather than a fixed point, reflecting the studio’s commitment to quality over rigid scheduling.

Learning from the Past

The transition of The Witcher 4 into full-scale production in late 2024 marks a pivotal moment for the studio. Following the turbulent launch of Cyberpunk 2077, CD Projekt Red has undergone a significant transformation, revamping its internal development processes to ensure more stability and transparency. These structural changes are being applied rigorously to both The Witcher 4 and the upcoming Cyberpunk sequel, in hopes of avoiding the technical hurdles that marred their previous flagship release.

Patience is Key for Fans

For those hoping for an immediate glimpse of gameplay, the wait will continue. Nowakowski noted that while The Witcher 4 will eventually have a presence at future Gamescom events, it will not be appearing in a playable or preview format this year. Industry analysts expect the first major gameplay reveal to likely occur in 2027 or 2028, coinciding with the approach of the game’s primary launch cycle.

As the studio continues its full-scale production efforts, the industry will be watching closely to see if this new, methodical approach to development will deliver the masterpiece that fans of the franchise expect.