Janice R. Andrews
Introduction:
The well-known Polish video game developer, CD Projekt, is preparing for an eventful 2024 as it begins work on “Polaris,” the follow-up to the hugely popular “Witcher” series. Adam Badowski, co-CEO of CD Projekt, provided insights into the ambitious project in an exclusive interview with Reuters. He emphasized the company’s commitment to learning from past mistakes, especially the problematic launch of “Cyberpunk 2077” in late 2020.
Extending the Witcher Universe:
The new trilogy “Polaris” is expected to add much to the rich and fascinating world of the “Witcher” medieval fantasy series. Since the franchise began in 2007, more than 75 million copies have been sold. CD Projekt strives to provide new viewpoints and narratives to enhance the gaming experience for fans.
Production Objectives and Team Growth:
Adam Badowski stated that by the middle of the year, the company hopes to have about 400 talented people actively working on the “Polaris” project. This is a smart step by CD Projekt to improve its production capabilities and provide a top-notch gaming experience. A new era for the studio began with the hiring of Michal Nowakowski and seasoned business veteran Badowski as joint CEOs at the start of the year.
No Premiere Date Yet:
Although CD Projekt has not yet disclosed a precise release window, industry watchers predict that the first “Polaris” installment will appear in 2026 or 2027. This means that CD Projekt won’t be releasing any big games anytime soon, which emphasizes the studio’s commitment to painstaking development and steering clear of the mistakes made with “Cyberpunk 2077.”
Recognizing the difficulties encountered in the initial release of “Cyberpunk 2077,” Adam Badowski stressed the company’s enhanced oversight of the game development process. Assuring fans that CD Projekt is committed to averting a recurrence of the problems that beset the release of their last game, he expressed optimism for a more seamless “Polaris” debut.
Future Projects & “Orion” Sequel:
CD Projekt is working on some intriguing future projects, one of which is a conceptual stage for a “Cyberpunk 2077” sequel that will be dubbed “Orion.” By year’s end, Badowski disclosed, the company hopes to have about eighty people working on the project. There are still unanswered questions about the possible multiplayer components, but discussions are under progress.
Adapting to Industry Changes:
In response to inquiries over employment practices and salary pressures, Michal Nowakowski gave stakeholders the reassurance that the company anticipates “rather low” hiring at its Polish studios. Nevertheless, CD Projekt is still dedicated to growing its studio in North America and adjusting to the ever-changing game market.
Investigating AI Integration:
In an attempt to look ahead, CD Projekt has assembled a group to investigate how artificial intelligence (AI) might be included into its game production procedures. Badowski underlined that although AI might improve some industrial procedures, human creativity and knowledge are still thought to be superior.
Conclusion:
With the start of “Polaris” production by CD Projekt, the gaming community is excited for the next installment of the “Witcher” series. The organization is prepared to offer a flawless gaming experience while embracing technology improvements and broadening its creative frontiers, having acquired significant lessons from past experiences. With its devoted fan base, CD Projekt appears to have a bright future.
