CD Projekt Red Bolsters Witcher 4 Team with Clair Obscur Cinematic Animator
CD Projekt Red, the studio behind the acclaimed Witcher series and Cyberpunk 2077, has added Lucie Hennet, a cinematic animator from Sandfall Interactive, to its Warsaw studio. Hennet, known for her work on the award-winning Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, joined the team this February. This move signals a continued investment in high-quality cinematic experiences for their upcoming projects, most notably The Witcher 4.
Refining Motion Capture: Hennet’s Expertise
During her 20-month tenure at Sandfall Interactive (May 2023 – December 2024), Hennet specialized in refining motion capture data. Her responsibilities included cleaning up and improving both body and facial animations, and managing data from Xsens to Unreal Engine 5 (UE5). She also contributed to motion capture sessions and the development of the animation pipeline for cinematics. Her ArtStation page showcases examples of her work, demonstrating the transformation of raw motion capture into polished, final animations.
The Witcher 4 and CD Projekt Red’s Pipeline
While CD Projekt Red hasn’t explicitly confirmed Hennet’s assignment to The Witcher 4, the studio’s Warsaw location is currently the primary development hub for the next installment in the Witcher saga. The company’s North American studios are focused on Cyberpunk 2 and the multiplayer Witcher project, codenamed Project Sirius.
CD Projekt Red co-CEO Michał Nowakowski has stated that The Witcher 4 is in full-scale production, but a 2026 release is off the table. The studio is prioritizing quality and scope over a rushed launch.
Industry Trend: Prioritizing Cinematic Quality
The addition of a skilled cinematic animator like Hennet reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry: a growing emphasis on cinematic quality. Modern RPGs, in particular, are increasingly relying on compelling narratives and visually stunning cutscenes to immerse players in their worlds. Games like The Last of Us Part II and Red Dead Redemption 2 have set a new standard for cinematic presentation, raising player expectations.
This trend is driven by several factors, including advancements in motion capture technology, the increasing affordability of high-finish animation tools, and the demand for more emotionally resonant gaming experiences. Developers are recognizing that investing in cinematic quality can significantly enhance player engagement and critical reception.
Did you understand? Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 received critical acclaim for its innovative animation and storytelling, demonstrating the impact of high-quality cinematic work on player experience.
Other Developments at CD Projekt Red
Beyond The Witcher 4, CD Projekt Red is also supporting other projects within the Witcher universe. Fool’s Theory, the studio initially tasked with a full remake of the original The Witcher, has paused development to provide support for The Witcher 4. A new DLC for The Witcher 3 is reportedly in development by the same studio.
FAQ
Q: Will The Witcher 4 be released in 2026?
A: No, CD Projekt Red has ruled out a 2026 release for The Witcher 4.
Q: What was Lucie Hennet’s role at Sandfall Interactive?
A: She was a cinematic animator, responsible for refining motion capture data for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Q: What other projects is CD Projekt Red working on?
A: They are currently developing Cyberpunk 2 and a multiplayer Witcher game (Project Sirius), in addition to The Witcher 4 and supporting DLC for The Witcher 3.
Pro Tip: Following developers and animators on platforms like ArtStation and LinkedIn can provide valuable insights into the creative processes behind your favorite games.
Stay tuned for further updates on The Witcher 4 and other exciting projects from CD Projekt Red. What are your expectations for the next installment in the Witcher series? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
