The Witcher 4: Ciri's Rise — Everything We Learned From the First Gameplay Trailer
Ciri Takes the Lead in CD Projekt Red’s Next-Gen RPG Epic
Image source: CD Projekt Red
Ciri Takes Center Stage
In a bold move, The Witcher 4 shifts the spotlight from Geralt of Rivia to Ciri. The newly released trailer reveals Ciri as the primary protagonist, now a full-fledged Witcher after undergoing the Trial of the Grasses. Set in the frigid reaches of Kovir, the trailer begins with a haunting encounter in the village of Stromford, where Ciri hunts the Bauk — a terrifying beast rooted in Slavic mythology.
The moral complexity of the narrative is quickly laid bare when the villagers turn on their own, showcasing that monsters aren’t always the ones with claws. As expected from the series, players will face tough choices with far-reaching consequences.
Refined Combat and Magical Tools
Ciri’s combat is fast, fluid, and versatile. She wields Zireael, her blade, alongside a mystical chain imbued with elemental powers like fire. Her Witcher arsenal includes potions, bombs, and upgraded Signs — including a powerful Igni variant that scorches entire groups.
This deeper combat system encourages tactical decisions, with players needing to adapt based on weather, enemy types, and terrain. With dynamically changing conditions like snowstorms and the introduction of frostbite mechanics, The Witcher 4 feels more survivalist and immersive than its predecessors.
Unreal Engine 5 Takes the Lead
Visually, the game is a masterpiece. Built in Unreal Engine 5.6, the environments are staggering — snow-drenched forests, icy cliffs, and flickering candlelit interiors all rendered with stunning realism. The demo shown ran flawlessly at 60 FPS on a PlayStation 5.
Dynamic lighting, realistic physics, and detailed animations bring the world to life. Even Ciri’s horse, Kelpie, features lifelike movement thanks to the upgraded engine. Everything points to a game that’s not just prettier but more alive.
Watch the Official Trailer
A New Era for the Witcher
While Geralt’s story may be over, The Witcher 4 is no mere spinoff. With Ciri at the helm, CD Projekt Red is launching a new trilogy filled with emotional weight, mature storytelling, and technical ambition. Every choice, every enemy, and every side quest appears designed to shape a deeply personal narrative.
Fans hoping for more news will have to wait — no release date has been announced, but expectations are high for a 2027 launch. One thing’s for sure: The Witcher is back, and it’s more powerful than ever.