The developers behind The Witcher game series and Cyberpunk 2077 detailed its production strategy going forward, with plans to begin development on more content for both series in 2022.
CD Projekt Red announced its plans for the future with an extensive YouTube video that covered everything from development overhauls to upcoming content plans. A significant part of the announcement was devoted to its two flagship franchises, which the developers will be working on simultaneously going forward. The video stated the company intends to make "agile parallel development our natural state," and it "can begin parallel AAA game development starting 2022."
In order to reach this intended goal, CD Projekt Red showcased its strategic development framework, breaking it up into 3 core areas. The first was labeled "Transform," with it specifically referring to its approach to game development. The plan was outlined to include growth in production capabilities by implementing ideas such as cross-functional teams and cross-project experts. Increased communication and skill-sharing between teams is intended to provide a more adaptable approach to development, which will allow parallel work on both series. This also includes the intended approach to future marketing campaigns, which will subsequently begin much closer to a game's release. It was stated that "Game communication will focus on more polished footage and demos," and "Moreover, showcases will be conducted on all platforms."
The developers also highlighted the plan to switch from five-year development roadmaps to annual plans. While new AAA game development was slated to begin in 2022, the video also presented the roadmap for 2021. Following the buggy launch of Cyberpunk 2077, the plans for the game primarily focus on further Cyberpunk 2077 patches and updates. However, players can also expect free DLC, in addition to next-gen updates in the second half of 2021.
As for The Witcher, the company's plans extend into multiple games. In addition to a next-gen update for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, players can also look forward to more development on Gwent. Furthermore, a new AR mobile game titled The Witcher: Monster Slayer will be made available on iOS and Android, with a test version already accessible in some territories.
The video also suggested advancements in other forms of CD Projekt Red entertainment using both The Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077. It presented plans and points of consideration for both brands to appear in live-action, anime, music, books, comics and merchandise. Even so, the developers reassured fans that "Single-player RPGs have been, are, and will remain our priority."
Developed by CD Projekt Red, Cyberpunk 2077 is available now on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia and PC.
Source: YouTube