Witcher 4 and Cyberpunk 2 will have realistic NPCs thanks to AI tools. Find out the latest advancements of CD Projekt Red when it comes to AI technology, and the studio’s stance on it through the years.
Witcher 4 and Cyberpunk 2 Research and Development Updates
CD Projekt Red Will Use AI Tools to Create Realistic NPCs
Witcher 4 and the upcoming Cyberpunk sequel development teams will use AI-driven tools to create realistic non-player characters (NPCs). According to CD Projekt Red’s (CDPR) latest management board report, the studio is actively researching how existing AI-based technologies can be integrated into these future production pipelines.
They specified that these tools will be used for "automating prototyping, testing, and generating realistic crowds of non-player characters (NPCs)." CDPR noted that the team is currently testing these systems and plans to use them on a "dozen research projects."
Despite ongoing advancements, the management board report also noted that the studio remains mindful of the potential risks in implementing generative AI (GAI). "Use of GAI is fraught with regulatory and interpretational ambiguities, especially as concerns IPR protection for content generated with their use," they stated.
CD Projekt Red on AI
Over a year ago, the studio remained cautious about integrating GAI into its titles, despite its ongoing research into the technology. In an interview with Reuters in January 2024, CDPR Joint CEO Adam Badowski said that AI can be used to improve processes in game production, but not replace people.
At the FY2024 financial presentation in March 2025, Joint CEO Michał Nowakowski noted that although the studio is researching AI to enhance its projects, it isn't prioritizing GAI specifically. Nowakowski confirmed, "(...) we have several research projects underway. However, they are really not necessarily focusing on generative AI."
Nowakowski also mentioned the intricacies of IP ownership when using GAI, which is why they were adamant about not using these tools for The Witcher 4 and other future projects.
While that was the case in 2025, CD Projekt Red now appears to be embracing generative AI more fully, as evidenced by its plans to develop more realistic NPCs. However, it remains to be seen how this shift will influence public perception, especially as the gaming community remains deeply divided on the use of AI in game development.
With over 900 developers now on board, CDPR is going all-in on its upcoming slate. The studio's latest headcount highlights a major push for The Witcher 4 and Cyberpunk 2, alongside specialized teams working on the multiplayer-focused Project Sirius and the brand-new universe of Project Hadar.
Sources:
MANAGEMENT BOARD REPORT ON CD PROJEKT GROUP ACTIVITIES FOR THE PERIOD BETWEEN 1 JANUARY AND 31 DECEMBER 2025
CD Projekt aims to start production phase of 'Polaris' in 2024
CD PROJEKT GROUP FY 2024 Earnings
