The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings Interview

Article Index

Eschalon: Book II

Publisher:Namco Bandai
Developer:CD Projekt RED
Release Date:2011-05-17
Genre:
  • Action,Role-Playing
Platforms: Theme: Perspective:
  • Third-Person
Buy this Game: Amazon ebay
GB: Do you plan on releasing an editor for The Witcher 2 in the same vein as what we saw with the Djinni adventure editor for the original game? If so, when might modding enthusiasts expect to get their hands on it?

Tomasz: We were impressed with what our community members were able to do with the first game. So, support for modders is definitely on our wish list although we're not prepared to commit to anything at this moment. At best, the current outlook is probably not this year.


GB: Both CD Projekt and Widescreen Games have had conflicting things to say about the cancellation of The Witcher: Rise of the White Wolf. Have you gotten to a point where you're able to talk about the circumstances surrounding its cancellation? What lessons did you learn from that experience and how would you pursue a console edition of The Witcher 2 differently?

Tomasz: There is nothing more to be gained from discussing details of this situation. After a lot of thought, we felt it was best to cancel the project. As for what we learned, let's just say it was a lot. One big thing would be to give more consideration to doing it in-house.


GB: Has Andrzej Sapkowski had a chance to see The Witcher 2, and if so, what were his thoughts? Is he pleased with the direction you've taken both games and the success they've enjoyed?

Tomasz: Sapkowski isn't much of a gamer, so the main thing we can mention is that he reportedly likes the new, improved Geralt. Obviously, he's happy the first game introduced his creation to a wider international audience. We're sure that, just like the rest of us, he's keen to see The Witcher 2 become an even bigger success.


GB: The RED Engine has to be one of the most impressive engines we've seen on the PC, particularly for a role-playing game. Do you have any plans to license it to other developers or perhaps even to develop other non-Witcher titles in-house with the technology?

Tomasz: While ideas like the ones you mentioned have come up, we have been completely focused on getting The Witcher 2 out the door. So we have not taken any steps in either direction.


GB: At this point, I doubt there are any Witcher fans who wouldn't want to see a third installment to the series. Are there any roadblocks that would keep you from developing The Witcher 3? Are there further negotiations that would have to take place in order to give you the green light to pursue such an endeavor?

Tomasz: The main potential roadblock is the obvious one; i.e. if The Witcher 2 somehow fails to warrant a third game. It's still a bit early to be certain, but the indications so far are pretty favorable. Pre-sales were very solid, the sell-through so far looks strong, and the feedback from our players and from the game media has definitely been positive.


Thanks for your time, Tomasz, and best of luck in your future endeavors!