CD Projekt Red Boss Admits Studio Has Not Finished Its Redemption Arc After Cyberpunk 2077 Launch

CD Projekt Red co-CEO Michał Nowakowski says the studio has not yet completed its “redemption arc” following the 2020 launch of Cyberpunk 2077. While the studio has restored the game’s performance and sold over 35 million copies, Nowakowski told Edge magazine that winning back complete player trust remains a long-term goal, with future titles like The Witcher 4 serving as the next major test for the company’s reputation.

Why does CD Projekt Red believe its redemption is incomplete?

Despite the technical recovery of Cyberpunk 2077, leadership at CD Projekt Red remains cautious about their standing with the gaming community. According to an interview with Edge (via GamesRadar), Nowakowski stated he is “not 100% convinced” the studio has fully redeemed itself. He acknowledged that the company permanently lost the trust of some players when the game launched with significant performance issues and bugs in 2020, a stark contrast to the widespread acclaim of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt released in 2015.

Did you know? Cyberpunk 2077 has seen a massive resurgence in player count, returning to Steam’s most-played charts following the release of the Phantom Liberty expansion and comprehensive patches.

How will future projects impact the studio’s reputation?

The studio is looking toward its upcoming slate of titles to repair its relationship with its audience. Nowakowski noted that if The Witcher 4 does not fully restore that lost credibility, the team will continue the effort with subsequent releases. The company is currently managing a “ten-year plan” that includes a Cyberpunk 2 sequel, currently in pre-production, and a remake of the original The Witcher. Additionally, a new expansion for The Witcher 3, titled Songs of the Past, is slated for 2027.

What has changed in the studio’s internal culture?

The development cycle of Cyberpunk 2077 fundamentally altered how CD Projekt Red operates. Nowakowski described the current team as “battle-hardened” veterans who are better equipped to handle complex challenges. The studio has shifted its strategy to avoid “flooding the market” with content. Instead, management is focusing on a sustainable growth model that prioritizes quality over quantity, explicitly stating they do not intend to become a developer that releases a massive, high-budget game every single year.

Pro Tip: When evaluating a studio’s recovery, look at post-launch support cycles. CD Projekt Red’s commitment to years of free patches and the Phantom Liberty expansion is widely considered the industry benchmark for turning around a failed launch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has the development of Cyberpunk 2077 finished?

Yes, primary development on Cyberpunk 2077 is effectively complete, allowing the team to shift focus toward the next Cyberpunk installment and The Witcher franchise.

CD Projekt RED: The Studio That Survived the Impossible (Twice)

When will The Witcher 4 be released?

As of now, CD Projekt Red has not announced a specific release date for The Witcher 4. Industry speculation suggests it may be targeted for next-generation hardware, such as the PlayStation 6 and the next iteration of the Xbox.

Is CD Projekt Red planning to expand its list of intellectual properties?

No. Nowakowski confirmed the studio does not intend to grow by adding a large volume of new IPs. The current strategy focuses on maintaining high standards for existing franchises rather than rapid expansion.

What are your thoughts on the studio’s path forward? Do you believe one successful game is enough to earn back lost trust? Share your perspective in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry analysis.