Fans of The Witcher series will need to temper their excitement as CD Projekt has officially confirmed that The Witcher 4 will not see a release in 2026. Dive deeper to learn more about the latest updates and the ongoing development of this highly anticipated game.
The Witcher 4 Will Not Come Out In 2026
No Specific Release Window Yet
The wait for the next chapter in The Witcher saga continues, as CD Projekt Red has announced that The Witcher 4 is not on track for a release within the next two years. During the studio's fiscal year 2024 earnings presentation, it was made clear that despite certain financial targets set for the next fiscal year, "Even though we do not plan to release The Witcher 4 by the end of 2026, we are still driven by this financial goal."
In a subsequent Q&A session, the topic was revisited, but CD Projekt Red remained discreet about any specific release window beyond 2026. Chief Financial Officer Piotr Nielubowicz stated, "We are not going to announce the precise launch date for the game yet. All we could share now to give more visibility to investors is that the game will not be launched within the time frame of the first target for the incentive program, which ends December 31, 2026."
Full Speed Ahead In Production
While fans may have to adjust their expectations for The Witcher 4's release, the game is actively being developed. CD Projekt's Q3 financial update last year highlighted that the project, known as Project Polaris/The Witcher 4, has entered "full production." Nielubowicz expressed his gratitude and optimism about the project's progress, saying, "Of all our projects, this one [Project Polaris/The Witcher 4] is currently the most far along, and we're starting the most intensive phase of development. I wish to thank the team for its effort and I'm keeping my fingers crossed for further progress."
First unveiled as Project Polaris in 2022, the game was officially titled The Witcher IV during The Game Awards 2024, following a thrilling six-minute cinematic trailer. This installment marks a significant shift by moving away from the iconic Geralt of Rivia and introducing Ciri, his adoptive daughter, as the main protagonist. Ciri, now older and more mature, steps into the spotlight, continuing the legacy of her predecessor.
According to CD Projekt's announcements on X (formerly Twitter) in October 2022, The Witcher 4 will kickstart a new trilogy. The subsequent titles, currently known as Project Canis Majoris and Project Orion, are slated to be released within a six-year window following The Witcher 4's launch.
