Witcher 4 Director Denies Ciri Face Change

Following the release of a behind-the-scenes look at *The Witcher 4’s* cinematic reveal trailer, some fans noticed what appeared to be subtle differences in Ciri’s facial appearance in two brief clips (at the 2:11 and 5:47 marks) compared to the trailer itself. These clips offered closer, rotating views of Ciri’s in-game model. While some praised the slightly different look at the 5:47 mark as a “perfect representation of a slightly older Ciri,” others compared it to previous concerns that Ciri looked “ugly” in the reveal trailer. This sparked speculation that CD Projekt Red had altered Ciri’s in-game model in response to this supposed backlash.

However, *The Witcher 4* game director Sebastian Kalemba clarified on social media that no modifications were made to Ciri’s in-game model. He explained that the clips showcased “raw footage”—unrefined by the cinematic lighting, animation, and camera effects present in the reveal trailer. This variation, he stated, is a normal part of the game development process, with character appearances potentially differing across trailers, 3D models, and the final in-game product.

*The Witcher 4*, the first in a new trilogy, features Ciri as the protagonist instead of Geralt. Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga emphasized that Ciri was the “organic, logical choice,” citing her prominence in the books and the desire to continue her story after Geralt’s arc concluded in *The Witcher 3*. Kalemba added that Ciri’s younger age allows for greater player agency in shaping her character and provides more narrative exploration opportunities.

While acknowledging potential negative reactions to Ciri’s role, both Mitręga and Kalemba affirmed that her position as the protagonist was a deliberate and carefully considered decision, made years in advance. They highlighted the wealth of narrative potential inherent in Ciri’s journey and her compelling challenges.

Geralt’s voice actor, Doug Cockle, also expressed his excitement about Ciri taking the lead, emphasizing the narrative potential stemming from the books.

Further exclusive content on *The Witcher 4* is available, including a trailer breakdown and an interview detailing how CD Projekt Red is working to avoid a repeat of *Cyberpunk 2077’s* troubled launch.