The Witcher IV Will Not Feature Any New Contribution From Author Andrzej Sapkowski

Fans of The Witcher series may be surprised to learn that Andrzej Sapkowski, the author of the original novels, will not be contributing to The Witcher IV. Although his relationship with developer CD Projekt Red is currently strong, Sapkowski has confirmed that he has not been involved in any way with the upcoming game.

During a recent book event promoting his new release Crossroads of Ravens, Sapkowski was asked by GamesRadar+ whether he had participated in the development of The Witcher IV. He responded that it is rare for CD Projekt Red to seek his input these days. In the past, the studio occasionally consulted him for advice or clarification during the development of earlier games, but that practice has since become uncommon.

Despite this lack of creative involvement, Sapkowski emphasized that his professional relationship with the studio remains positive.

“The contracts between me and the game people are excellent right now,” Sapkowski said. “Let’s hope it stays that way.”

The Polish writer’s first agreement with CD Projekt Red, signed in the late 1990s, was a one-time payment deal. He famously declined a share of the profits, believing the games would not succeed commercially. However, after The Witcher series became a global phenomenon, Sapkowski’s legal representatives sought additional compensation in 2018, claiming around $16 million USD in royalties. The dispute was resolved amicably in December 2019, leading to a new and more favorable arrangement for both sides.

While The Witcher IV will not feature new material from Sapkowski, the studio continues to draw inspiration from his extensive literary world. The upcoming game will reportedly take some cues from Crossroads of Ravens, which explores Geralt of Rivia’s earliest adventures as a witcher.

Given CD Projekt Red’s long-standing respect for Sapkowski’s work and its careful adaptation of his world, fans have little reason to worry that the next entry will stray too far from established lore. The studio has consistently shown a deep understanding of The Witcher universe, balancing its gritty realism and moral ambiguity with rich storytelling.

One of the greatest challenges ahead for CDPR may be persuading players that Ciri is as vital a protagonist as Geralt, a concept long familiar to book readers. If history is any indication, the studio is more than capable of delivering another faithful and ambitious continuation of Sapkowski’s legendary saga.

 
Do you think The Witcher IV will stay true to Sapkowski’s world without his direct input?