Behind the Scenes of The Witcher IV: 14 Days of Filming and the Creative Journey of Bauka

CD Projekt RED has released a video detailing the creation process of the trailer for The Witcher IV. The clip, which was presented at The Game Awards 2024, is just 6 minutes long, though the motion capture sessions spanned 14 days. An additional 3 days were dedicated to live-action filming to better understand how the camera behaves.

The trailer was directed by Kajetan Kapuściński.

This trailer focuses on Ciri and her challenges in her role as a witcher, setting the stage for the next installment in the fantasy series. The narrative director, Philipp Weber, particularly enjoys the opening scene, which simultaneously showcases Miion’s local customs preparation and Ciri’s witcher rituals.

Philipp Weber

One of the most intriguing aspects for the developers was the animation of the Bauk, a creature that combines features of a goblin, snake, jaguar, scorpion, and dinosaur, according to animation director Maciej Pietras. Four individuals collaborated closely to bring this being to life, using large props to simulate its movements.

The video also hints at elements of the upcoming game, with Weber explaining that the trailer serves not just as a preview but as a reflection of the complex decisions players will face in The Witcher IV.

Philipp Weber

It’s still uncertain when and on which platforms we will see The Witcher IV, but previously, game director Sebastian Kalemba indicated that CDPR intends to support PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.