The Witcher 4 takes priority, pushing back Witcher 1 remake to 2028

CD Projekt Red is shifting priorities in the development of The Witcher universe. The remake of the first game in the series, known under the codename Canis Majoris, has been moved to the back burner to make way for active development on The Witcher 4. This information comes from Tech4Gamers, citing an analytical report from the Polish investment firm Noble Securities.

According to analysts, the studio is deliberately reallocating resources in favor of The Witcher 4, which is seen as the key title for the next phase of the franchise and is targeting a 2027 release. The team at Fool's Theory, previously involved in the first game's remake, has largely been shifted to assist the main CDPR studio, which has automatically slowed progress on Canis Majoris.

As a result, the release timeline for The Witcher 1 remake has been pushed back. Once considered a nearer-term release, it's now not expected until at least 2028—roughly a year after The Witcher 4 launches. Both projects are being built on Unreal Engine 5. CDPR's move away from its own REDEngine means the remake will actively utilize assets and developments from the fourth installment, potentially leading to noticeable similarities in visuals and game systems.

In terms of gameplay, the remake promises to be more than just a cosmetic update. Developers intend to seriously overhaul the original's outdated mechanics, eliminate controversial design choices, and bring the game in line with modern standards. A shift from a hub-based location structure to a full open world is also expected, which would fundamentally change the perception of the first game.

While major new releases are still several years away, fans of the series might get something sooner. Noble Securities predicts that CDPR is preparing a new DLC for The Witcher 3, which could arrive in the coming months to maintain interest in the franchise until The Witcher 4 appears.