[2] Following the release of Cyberpunk 2077 (2020), CDPR made structural changes to its production process to better define development stages and ensure cohesive designs for future projects, including the new Witcher game.

CDPR also recognizes that some players might be unfamiliar with the previous games and seeks to design The Witcher IV as both a fresh entry point for newcomers and a continuation for longtime fans.

[3] The studio has long considered the idea of a game where Ciri, who appeared as a supporting, occasionally playable character in Wild Hunt, serves as the main protagonist, describing her as a "very organic, logical choice".

Drawing on their experience with Cyberpunk 2077, the studio also seeks to enhance gameplay flexibility, including character builds and encounters, and create greater coherence across main story missions, side quests, and open world activities.

[3] The game is being developed using Unreal Engine 5, which CDPR adopted after transitioning away from their proprietary REDengine—the technology previously used for The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings (2011) and Wild Hunt.