CD Projekt Red's CEO, Michał Nowakowski, recently discussed the major influences behind The Witcher 4, highlighting Baldur's Gate 3 as a key source of inspiration. While the game still lacks an official release date, fans are eagerly anticipating its arrival, and the studio's decision to take cues from such a critically acclaimed title like Baldur's Gate 3 has only heightened expectations.

Announced in late 2024, The Witcher 4 will serve as a direct sequel to the wildly successful The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which sold over 60 million copies since its 2015 release. The sequel will shift focus from Geralt to Ciri, placing her at the center of the adventure in the frosty and politically rich lands of Kovir.

In an interview with PC Gamer, Nowakowski elaborated on how Baldur's Gate 3 influenced the studio's approach to The Witcher 4. While the two games differ in style, Baldur's Gate 3's dynamic world interactions left a lasting impression. Nowakowski emphasized that The Witcher 4 will retain the essence of its predecessors while incorporating deeper NPC reactivity and environmental interactivity.

A recent Unreal Engine 5 tech demo provided a glimpse into The Witcher 4's potential. Though not actual gameplay, the demo showcased Kovir's rugged landscapes, Ciri riding her horse Kelpie, and bustling city scenes teeming with life. The footage also hinted at the return of classic monsters like the Imperial Manticore from The Witcher 2, suggesting a world rich with lore and danger.

While CD Projekt Red has remained tight-lipped about specific gameplay mechanics, the studio has confirmed that The Witcher 4 will build upon the open-world foundation of The Witcher 3. The game aims to deliver a more immersive experience, with NPCs reacting dynamically to player choices and a world that feels alive with activity.