CD Projekt Red is set to revolutionize NPC development in The Witcher 4, aiming for unprecedented levels of detail and realism. Responding to feedback on the NPC mechanics in Cyberpunk 2077 and the stereotypical characters in The Witcher 3, the studio is committed to crafting a world that feels truly alive.

In a recent interview, game director Sebastian Kalemba elaborated on their innovative approach: "We have a rule: every NPC should look like they are living their own life with their own story." This philosophy is vividly showcased in the first trailer, which introduces the secluded village of Stromford. Here, villagers adhere to ancient superstitions and worship a forest god. A poignant scene features a young girl adorned with a wreath of twigs, praying in the shadowy forest, only to be interrupted by Ciri's arrival to combat a lurking monster.

Kalemba emphasized their goal: "We aim to make NPCs as realistic as possible - from appearance to facial expressions and behavior. This will create an even deeper immersion than before. We're really trying to set a new bar for quality." The developers are dedicated to ensuring that each village and character in The Witcher 4 boasts unique features and stories, reflecting the superstitions and cultural nuances of isolated regions.

The Witcher 4 is slated for release in 2025, and fans are eagerly anticipating further details on how the game will redefine its approach to world and character creation.