'We Have Not Modified It' — The Witcher 4 Director Responds to Speculation CD Projekt Changed Ciri's Face

The director of The Witcher 4 has clarified that a recent video showcasing Ciri uses the same in-game model as seen in the initial reveal trailer, dispelling rumors of a redesigned character. Yesterday, CD Projekt Red released behind-the-scenes footage, including two close-up shots of Ciri at the 2:11 and 5:47 marks. These brief clips sparked online discussion, with some fans noting subtle differences in her facial appearance compared to the reveal trailer. One commenter even praised the 5:47 shot, suggesting it perfectly captured a slightly older Ciri.

This fueled existing online discussions regarding Ciri's appearance in the reveal trailer, with some negative reactions. The positive response to the new clips led to speculation that CD Projekt Red had altered Ciri's face. However, The Witcher 4 game director, Sebastian Kalemba, took to social media to clarify that no modifications were made to the in-game model. He explained that the footage showed a "raw" version, lacking the cinematic lighting, animation, and camera effects present in the reveal trailer.

“The behind-the-scenes video features the same in-game model of Ciri as seen in the original trailer,” Kalemba stated. “What you’re seeing is raw footage — without facial animation, lighting, or virtual camera lenses. This variation is a natural part of the game development process. At this point, any character's appearance may vary depending on the medium.”

The Witcher 4, the first in a new trilogy, features Ciri as the protagonist instead of Geralt. Executive producer Małgorzata Mitręga, in an exclusive interview with IGN, explained that Ciri was the "organic, logical choice," citing her importance in the books and the desire to continue her story after Geralt's arc in The Witcher 3. Kalemba added that Ciri's younger age allows for greater player agency in shaping her character.

While acknowledging potential negative reactions to Ciri's leading role, both Mitręga and Kalemba emphasized that her selection was a deliberate and well-considered decision, driven by her narrative potential and the desire to explore her character's journey in depth. Geralt's voice actor, Doug Cockle, also expressed his excitement for the shift to Ciri as the protagonist in an earlier interview with IGN.

Further exclusive content on The Witcher 4, including a trailer breakdown and an interview detailing how CD Projekt Red is avoiding a repeat of the Cyberpunk 2077 launch issues, is available.