"Witcher 4 Release Rumors for 2026 Dismissed"

If you're a fan of The Witcher series, you might need to adjust your expectations regarding the release of the much-anticipated fourth installment. Developer CD Projekt has officially announced that The Witcher 4 will not be hitting the shelves in 2026. This confirmation came during their fiscal year 2024 earnings presentation, where they outlined their financial goals and incentive programs, yet explicitly stated, "Even though we do not plan to release The Witcher 4 by the end of 2026, we are still driven by this financial goal."

No Specific Release Window Yet

During the Q&A session following the presentation, the topic was revisited, and Chief Financial Officer Piotr Nielubowicz clarified that while they are not ready to announce a precise launch date, the game will not be released before December 31, 2026. This statement leaves fans eagerly waiting for more concrete details on when they can dive into the next chapter of this beloved series.

Full Speed Ahead In Production

Despite the delay in release, development is moving forward at full speed. The Witcher 4, also known as Project Polaris, is already in "full production" according to the CD Projekt Q3 financial update from last year. Piotr Nielubowicz expressed his gratitude towards the development team and optimism about the project's progress, indicating that this title is the most advanced among their current projects.

Originally announced as Project Polaris in 2022, The Witcher 4 was officially titled and unveiled with a cinematic trailer at The Game Awards 2024. This new installment will shift the spotlight from the iconic Geralt of Rivia to his adoptive daughter, Ciri, who will take the lead as a more mature protagonist, continuing the legacy of her mentor.

CD Projekt has shared on X (formerly Twitter) in October 2022 that The Witcher 4 is the first of a new trilogy. The subsequent titles, currently known as Project Canis Majoris and Project Orion, are slated to be released within a six-year window following the launch of The Witcher 4. This roadmap promises an exciting future for fans of the franchise.