The Witcher 4 Targets 2028 Release as CD Projekt Details Trilogy Plans

CD Projekt has formally announced that The Witcher 4 is now targeting a 2028 release window, marking the first concrete timing for the next mainline entry in the acclaimed RPG series. The update was delivered in a video message from Michał Nowakowski, Joint Chief Executive Officer at CD Projekt Red, who also outlined the studio's broader ambitions for a new trilogy and upcoming expansion content.

Release Window and Trilogy Roadmap

The Witcher 4 is currently in active development at CD Projekt Red, with the studio aiming for a 2028 launch. While an exact date has not been provided, the company's stated goal is to deliver all three games in the new Ciri-fronted Witcher trilogy within a six-year period. If this schedule holds, The Witcher 5 could follow in 2031, with The Witcher 6 potentially arriving in 2034. CD Projekt has not confirmed platforms, but the game is expected to target current-generation hardware and PC.

Nowakowski confirmed that The Witcher 4 will not be shown at gamescom 2026, emphasising that the team is focused on building a new saga with Ciri as the central character. Over 500 developers are reportedly working on the project, which is described as the studio's most ambitious game to date, featuring a large open world, action-driven gameplay, and a narrative designed to leave a lasting impact.

Songs of the Past Expansion for The Witcher 3

Before The Witcher 4 arrives, CD Projekt Red will release Songs of the Past, the third expansion for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Scheduled for launch in 2027 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, the expansion is being co-developed with Fool's Theory, a studio comprising developers who previously worked on The Witcher 3. Players will once again take on the role of Geralt of Rivia in a new standalone adventure set after the events of the main game.

Songs of the Past is positioned as a narrative bridge, acting as a prologue of sorts for The Witcher 4 while delivering its own self-contained story. The expansion will introduce new content, including a mysterious third sword for Geralt and additional Gwent cards. CD Projekt has stated that the expansion's size and scope will be comparable to Blood and Wine, the game's previous major DLC.

Development Status and Player Expectations

CD Projekt Red has indicated that development on The Witcher 4 is progressing, but the studio is not yet ready to share gameplay footage or detailed features. The team has prioritised quality and player experience, with the 2028 window chosen to ensure the game meets expectations. Songs of the Past, meanwhile, was delayed from an earlier planned release to 2027 to allow for further refinement and collaboration with Fool's Theory.

During a recent livestream, the studio teased elements of the upcoming expansion, including the significance of Geralt's new sword and the return of familiar characters such as Dandelion. While no gameplay has been shown, artwork and hints have been shared through official channels, with more substantial reveals expected at future events. The Witcher 3 has now surpassed 65 million copies sold, underlining the franchise's enduring popularity.

Franchise Context and Future Appearances

CD Projekt's approach to the new trilogy and expansion content reflects a long-term commitment to The Witcher universe. The company has confirmed that The Witcher 4 will not appear at gamescom 2026, but plans to showcase Songs of the Past at this year's event, offering attendees a first look at the expansion's dark narrative and new gameplay features. For a broader overview of upcoming reveals at gamescom Opening Night Live 2026, including The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Songs of the Past, see this detailed preview of the event's major announcements.

While the release window for The Witcher 4 remains several years away, CD Projekt's roadmap suggests a steady flow of content for fans, with the expansion serving as both a narrative send-off for Geralt and a setup for the next era of the series. The studio's decision to space out releases and focus on quality over speed is consistent with its recent development philosophy.

In the context of modern RPG development, a release window refers to the period during which a game is planned to launch, rather than a fixed date. This approach allows studios to adjust timelines as development progresses, particularly for large-scale projects with evolving technical requirements. Players should expect further updates as milestones are reached and more concrete information becomes available.