Witcher Fans Face Extended Wait as Remake Reportedly Pushed to 2028
Devotees of The Witcher franchise may need to brace themselves for a longer hiatus than anticipated, with fresh reports indicating that the eagerly awaited remake of the original game has been delayed until 2028. This development extends what has already been a considerable wait since the last mainline entry in the series.
Reported Delay and Development Shifts
According to sources cited by WitcherIVNews on X, referencing Polish investment firm Noble Securities, the remake of The Witcher has slipped from its previously anticipated 2027 release window to 2028. The project is being handled by developer Fool's Theory, with CD Projekt RED overseeing creative direction.
The primary reason for this setback appears to be a strategic reallocation of resources. Reports suggest that team members from Fool's Theory have been reassigned to provide assistance on The Witcher 4, which has significantly slowed progress on the remake. This move underscores the high priority CD Projekt RED is placing on its flagship sequel.
Engine Transition and Development Expertise
The shift in focus may be partly driven by technical considerations. The Witcher 4 marks a major transition for CD Projekt RED, as it moves from its proprietary RED Engine to Unreal Engine 5. Fool's Theory possesses valuable experience with this engine, having utilised it for their 2023 release, The Thaumaturge. Their expertise could be crucial in smoothing this technological migration for the larger project.
Broader Context and Fan Speculation
This delay occurs amidst a landscape of speculation and anticipation within the Witcher community. Fool's Theory has also been the subject of recent rumours suggesting they are involved in developing a secret DLC for The Witcher 3. This purported content is rumoured to bridge the narrative gap between the third game and the upcoming fourth instalment, potentially releasing later this year.
Neither the DLC nor the official confirmation of the remake's delay has been announced by CD Projekt RED at this time. The studio has maintained a cautious approach since first revealing the remake in October 2022, advising fans that the process would require patience to ensure quality.
The Need for a Modern Remake
The decision to undertake a full remake of the 2007 original is widely seen as necessary. While the first Witcher game is praised for its compelling story set in a rich fantasy world, its gameplay mechanics and presentation are considered dated by contemporary standards. The series' surge in popularity, bolstered by the success of later games and adaptations, has created strong demand for a modernised version of where it all began.
With The Witcher 4 also lacking a confirmed release date, the cumulative effect is a prolonged waiting period for fans eager to return to the Continent. This latest report suggests that stepping back into the boots of Geralt or Ciri will require considerable patience, potentially making another playthrough of The Witcher 3 a popular pastime in the interim.
