CD Projekt Red powerless regarding PS5 disc edition of The Witcher 4, but promises a game box with “feelies” whatever happens

[CD Projekt Red faces a dilemma with The Witcher 4’s physical release on PlayStation 5.]

The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed The Witcher 3, currently codenamed The Witcher 4, is already generating immense hype. However, CD Projekt Red is facing an unexpected hurdle: Sony’s impending halt to disc manufacturing for first-party games starting January 2028. This puts a physical PS5 edition of The Witcher 4 in jeopardy, despite the studio’s desire to offer it.

A Physical Edition Dilemma

During an interview at Gamescom last week, Michał Nowakowski, joint-CEO of CD Projekt Red, addressed the situation. “We don’t know what’s going to be the case,” he stated. “We know what PlayStation has announced. And we have no influence on the policies of the first parties.” The discs for PlayStation games must be manufactured in Sony’s facilities, meaning if they cease production by 2028, a physical version of The Witcher 4 might not be possible.

While the exact release date remains unconfirmed, Nowakowski recently narrowed down the window to 2028. Given the franchise’s massive popularity, CD Projekt Red likely aims for an autumn release, maximizing its impact. However, this puts it squarely in the crosshairs of Sony’s disc discontinuation plan.

Commitment to “Feelies”

Despite the challenges, CD Projekt Red remains committed to providing fans with a tangible experience. “We’re big fans of people having access to collectible things,” Nowakowski emphasized. “We always supported that.” Regardless of whether a physical disc is feasible, the studio plans to release a boxed version containing “some feelies” – extras and collectibles for players to enjoy.

Keeping Fans Engaged

While fans eagerly await The Witcher 4, CD Projekt Red has several projects in the pipeline. The unexpected expansion to The Witcher 3, titled Songs of the Past, is slated for release next year. Furthermore, the studio is remastering The Witcher 3, not only visually but also from a gameplay perspective, overhauling combat, enemy behavior, skill trees, horse riding, and more. This remastered edition arrives on September 29th for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.