Behind the Scenes of The Witcher 3: How CDPR Overcame Open-World Narrative Challenges

In a recent interview, former The Witcher 3 lead quest designer Mateusz Tomaszkiewicz revealed CD Projekt Red's initial reservations about marrying a grand narrative with an open-world structure.

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“Few games have dared to blend expansive storytelling techniques, usually found in linear RPGs like The Witcher 2, with an open-world experience,” Tomaszkiewicz noted.

CD Projekt Red initially worried the ambitious story might clash with the open-world design. However, the team forged ahead, resulting in the critically acclaimed The Witcher 3. Today, Tomaszkiewicz leads Rebel Wolves, developing The Blood of Dawnwalker. Set in an alternate medieval Eastern Europe with dark fantasy elements, vampires are central to this new game's narrative.

The Blood of Dawnwalker is in development for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. While an official release date remains unannounced, a gameplay reveal is expected this summer.