The Witcher 4has put Ciri in the spotlight, and while she is primed to be a strong protagonist to carry the torch, there are naturally questions about Geralt’s role in the story. Geralt has led the franchise until now, and although the story ofThe Witcher 4is unclear, there has at least been confirmation that he will be featured in the game in some capacity. His role may seem uncertain, but there is one route that feels like a given.
As Geralt’s adoptive daughter, Ciri has learned many of her survival skills from him, and that mentor-mentee relationship seems bound to continue.The Witcher 4is likely a long time away, but when it comes to the evolving relationship of Ciri and Geralt, it feels highly probable that the latter will take on the same role that Vesemir did inThe Witcher 3.
Geralt and Ciri are Primed to Have a Similar Relationship to Him and Vesemir
Vesemir’s Role in The Witcher 3 Needs to be Filled
Unfortunately,Vesemir’s death inThe Witcher 3is an unavoidable tragedy that sets the stage for Geralt to take his place. His hero’s death is the result of protecting Ciri, which makes it even more poetic that she is now serving as the game’s lead. Vesemir sacrificing himself in order to protect her makes Geralt potentially stepping into his shoes an emotional transition, as well as a natural progression.
During the events ofThe Witcher 3, Vesemir is the oldest living witcher.
Geralt Serving as a Mentor Isn’t Surprising
The Witcher 3focused largely on Geralt and his role as a father figure as he searches for Ciri. SinceVesemir was Geralt’s father figure, it makes perfect sense for Geralt to continue to be Ciri’s mentor, as that has been his ongoing role in her life. While the evolution of these characters' relationships with one another may seem obvious to many who have played the game, it has yet to be confirmed. The lack of confirmation could make some fans feel uneasy and lead to speculation that Geralt may not be important to the game. Vesemir may not have played a starring role, but he was still quite important overall, which is a likely route for Geralt.
So far, CD Projekt Red has been understandably secretive about how important Geralt will be to the story. In an interview with PC Gamer, game director Sebastian Kalemba coyly stated, “I can’t tell you more, but I think the promise is enough” whendiscussing Geralt inThe WItcher 4.
There is no official release window forThe Witcher 4. Between this andCyberpunk 2077’s sequel, CD Projekt Red has its hands full.
Even If Geralt’s Role is Minimal, It Could Have a Big Impact
Of course, some longtime fans may be sad to see Geralt take a backseat in the story, but his role will likely be essential, even if it’s smaller. His advice and care for Ciri is bound to create some emotional moments that can bring a combination of nostalgia and excitement for the future.Ciri now leading the storyis introducing a new era forThe Witcherfranchise, and it’s exciting to think of what lies ahead.
I can’t tell you more, but I think the promise is enough.
It could be years beforeThe Witcher 4is released to the masses, so until then, the game remains a fertile field for speculation to grow. Asmore details aboutThe Witcher 4are brought forth, it will be compelling to see how it differs from its successful predecessor. Having Ciri take Geralt’s place as the new protagonist may be a big change, but it’s also a strong way to demonstrate how far the relationship between these two characters has come.
The Witcher 4
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The Witcher IV is a single-player, open-world RPG from CD PROJEKT RED. At the start of a new saga, players take on the role of Ciri, a professional monster slayer, and embark on a journey through a brutal dark-fantasy world. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, it aims to be the most immersive and ambitious open-world Witcher game to date.
