The Witcher 4 Devs Detail Ciri’s Combat Style: A Major Departure from Geralt’s Heavier Approach

The announcement of The Witcher 4 at The Game Awards 2024 sent shockwaves through the gaming community, not only because of the return to the beloved franchise but also due to the revelation that Ciri will take on the role of protagonist. This marks a significant shift from the first three games, which starred the iconic Geralt of Rivia. In a recent episode of CD Projekt Red’s AnsweRED Podcast, developers shed light on how Ciri’s combat style will differ from Geralt’s, offering players a fresh and dynamic gameplay experience.

Ciri’s Combat: A Fluid and Agile Approach

One of the most striking differences between Ciri and Geralt lies in their combat styles. While Geralt’s movements are deliberate and weighty, reflecting his years of training as a seasoned Witcher, Ciri’s fighting style is described as “liquid”—fast, agile, and almost dance-like. This distinction was highlighted by Pawel Burza, CD Projekt Red’s senior communications manager, who pointed to a moment in the Witcher 4 reveal trailer where Ciri finishes an attack with a somersault.

“You don’t see Geralt doing these things… He’s nimble, but he feels like a block, in some sense. She’s like, liquid, compared to him,” Burza explained. This fluidity is a direct reflection of Ciri’s physicality and upbringing. Sebastian Kalemba, the game’s director, added, “She moves like she was raised by wolves in Kaer Morhen… that comes from her personality, her posture, and stuff.”

A New Protagonist, A New Feel

Ciri’s combat style isn’t just a cosmetic change—it’s a fundamental shift in how players will experience The Witcher 4. Geralt’s combat, while versatile, often felt grounded and methodical, emphasizing preparation and strategy. In contrast, Ciri’s agility and speed will allow for a more dynamic and fast-paced approach to battles. Burza elaborated on this, noting that Ciri’s smaller frame and nimble movements give her a distinct advantage in combat. “Her body type is much different than what you expect in terms of Geralt. He’s more blocky, she’s very nimble, and she’s smaller, which lets her use that to her advantage, because she’s more agile.”

This shift in combat mechanics is a deliberate choice by CD Projekt Red to make The Witcher 4 feel fresh and distinct from its predecessors. While players got a taste of Ciri’s abilities in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt during brief playable sections, The Witcher 4 is being designed with her as the central character from the ground up. This allows the developers to fully explore her unique fighting style and push the boundaries of what combat in the Witcher universe can be.

What This Means for Gameplay

The transition from Geralt to Ciri as the protagonist isn’t just a narrative decision—it’s a gameplay evolution. Ciri’s agility and speed will likely translate into faster, more acrobatic combat mechanics, potentially including new moves like dodges, flips, and rapid strikes. Her magical abilities, such as her power to teleport short distances (seen in The Witcher 3), could also play a larger role in combat, adding a layer of strategy and versatility.

This change also opens the door for new gameplay systems and mechanics tailored to Ciri’s strengths. For example, players might encounter enemies or scenarios that require quick reflexes and precision, emphasizing her agility over brute strength. Additionally, her smaller stature could influence stealth mechanics, allowing players to approach encounters in ways that weren’t possible with Geralt.

Geralt’s Role in The Witcher 4

While Ciri is stepping into the spotlight, Geralt won’t be entirely absent from The Witcher 4. CD Projekt Red has confirmed that the White Wolf will appear in the game, albeit in a reduced role. This decision allows the developers to honor Geralt’s legacy while giving Ciri the opportunity to carve out her own path. Fans can expect Geralt to play a supporting role, potentially offering guidance or appearing in key story moments, but the focus will firmly remain on Ciri’s journey.

What’s Next for The Witcher 4?

Despite the excitement surrounding The Witcher 4, fans will need to be patient. CD Projekt Red has made it clear that gameplay reveals are still a long way off, meaning it could be some time before players get to see Ciri’s combat style in action. However, the developers have been gradually sharing more details about the game, including the return of Gwent, the beloved card game mini-game that became a fan favorite in The Witcher 3.

Conclusion: A Bold New Direction for The Witcher

The decision to make Ciri the protagonist of The Witcher 4 represents a bold new direction for the series. By shifting the focus to a character with a fundamentally different combat style and personality, CD Projekt Red is ensuring that The Witcher 4 feels fresh and innovative while still staying true to the franchise’s roots. Ciri’s agility, speed, and unique abilities promise to deliver a gameplay experience that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

As fans eagerly await more news, one thing is certain: The Witcher 4 is poised to redefine what it means to be a Witcher, offering players a chance to step into the boots of one of the series’ most compelling characters. With Ciri at the helm, the next chapter in the Witcher saga is shaping up to be an unforgettable adventure.