"The Witcher 4 Director Denies Changes to Ciri's Face"

The director of The Witcher 4, Sebastian Kalemba, has clarified that a recent behind-the-scenes video showcases the same in-game model of Ciri as seen in the original cinematic reveal trailer. This statement comes after fans noticed slight differences in Ciri's facial appearance in the new footage and speculated about potential changes made by CD Projekt in response to criticism.

In the behind-the-scenes video released by CD Projekt, fans zoomed in on Ciri's face at the 2:11 and 5:47 marks, sparking discussions about her slightly altered appearance compared to the reveal trailer. Some fans even praised the new look, with one commenter on the Witcher subreddit expressing delight at seeing a "slightly older Ciri" at the 5:47 mark, describing it as a "perfect representation."

Ciri at 2:11 in the new Witcher 4 video. Image credit: CD Projekt.

However, Kalemba took to social media to set the record straight, explaining that the video features raw footage of Ciri's in-game model without the cinematic enhancements such as facial animation, lighting, and virtual camera lenses. He emphasized that these variations are a normal part of the game development process and that any character's appearance can differ based on the medium used—be it a trailer, a 3D model, or in-game.

Ciri at 5:47 in the new Witcher 4 video. Image credit: CD Projekt.

The Witcher 4 marks the beginning of a new trilogy set after the events of The Witcher 3, with Ciri taking the spotlight as the main character instead of Geralt. Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga shared with IGN that Ciri was a "very organic, logical choice" for the protagonist, citing her rich character development in the books and the natural progression of the story.

Ciri in one shot from the official The Witcher 4 cinematic reveal trailer. Image credit: CD Projekt.

Kalemba further elaborated on the decision to center the game around Ciri, noting that her younger age compared to Geralt allows for greater player freedom in shaping her character and provides the developers with more creative space to explore her story. Despite potential backlash from some fans about Ciri's role, both Kalemba and Mitręga affirmed that Ciri was always intended to be the protagonist.

In a separate interview with IGN about Netflix's upcoming animated film, The Witcher: Sirens of The Deep, Geralt's voice actor, Doug Cockle, expressed excitement about the shift to Ciri as the protagonist in The Witcher 4. He believes it's an excellent move, given the narrative possibilities that arise from the books.

For more insights into The Witcher 4, check out our trailer breakdown and an exclusive interview with CD Projekt where they discuss how The Witcher 4 will avoid a Cyberpunk 2077-style launch disaster.