CD Projekt Red has shared insights into the progress of its highly anticipated next Witcher game, Project Polaris, hinting that fans may need to wait until at least 2026 for its release. While specific details about the new Witcher game remain scarce, the latest update sheds light on the studio’s ongoing efforts.
Following the tumultuous release of Cyberpunk 2077 in 2020, CD Projekt Red has navigated challenges, including significant updates to Cyberpunk 2077 and a next-gen upgrade for Witcher 3. With the successful launch of the Cyberpunk 2077 DLC, the studio is now placing a primary focus on the upcoming Witcher installment.
In an interview with Reuters, CD Projekt Red’s CEO Adam Badowski revealed plans to commence the production phase of the next Witcher trilogy in 2024. Approximately half of the CDPR development team worked on Project Polaris in late 2023, and the goal is to have around 400 people dedicated to the project by mid-2024. While the studio has not disclosed a specific release window, industry analysts suggest a potential debut in 2026 or 2027, contingent on the game’s progress during the current year.
Simultaneously, CDPR is intensifying efforts on Project Orion, the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077. Although still in the conceptual stage, Badowski anticipates having approximately 80 team members dedicated to the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel by the end of 2024. The studio declared Phantom Liberty as the final add-on for Cyberpunk 2077 last year.
Beyond the mainline Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077 entries, CDPR is working on two other Witcher games: Project Sirius and Canis Majoris. Project Sirius will introduce multiplayer/co-op elements to the Witcher universe, while Canis Majoris aims to be an open-world remake of the original Witcher game. Moreover, CD Projekt Red is developing a new IP distinct from Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher, although specifics remain undisclosed.
While the release of CDPR’s next title may be on the horizon, the anticipation surrounding its suite of upcoming games is sure to keep fans engaged in the years to come.