The creators of The Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077 are ramping up development for their unannounced 'Project Hadar,' with plans to expand the team to 50 developers by year-end.
- CD Projekt Red is staffing up for its mysterious 'Project Hadar.'
- The team aims to reach 50 developers by the end of this year.
- Development of the Witcher 1 remake is currently on hold.
- The Witcher 4 is being targeted for a 2028 release.
Renowned game developer CD Projekt Red (CDPR) is aggressively expanding its workforce to fuel the development of its unannounced title, 'Project Hadar.' During the company's latest earnings call on Wednesday, Karolina Gnas, Vice President of Investor Relations, revealed that the project is gaining significant momentum.
Currently, the Project Hadar team consists of over 30 members. However, the studio has ambitious growth plans, aiming to increase the headcount to 50 developers by the end of 2024. Gnas noted that the project is presently in its 'concept phase,' with the team primarily focused on prototyping gameplay elements and testing various creative approaches.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that CD Projekt Red is strategically pivoting toward diversifying its intellectual property. While the studio has built its empire on the pillars of The Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077, the heavy investment in Project Hadar suggests a move to establish a new, independent franchise that can sustain the studio's long-term growth without relying solely on existing lore.
The shift from remakes to new IP development signals CDPR's intent to lead the next generation of RPG storytelling.
In a move that might disappoint some long-time fans, CDPR confirmed that the highly anticipated The Witcher 1 remake has been placed on hold. The studio has decided to reallocate these vital resources toward The Witcher 4, which is currently being targeted for a 2028 release, as well as the newly announced Witcher 3 expansion, Songs of the Past.
Speculation is mounting regarding the genre of Project Hadar. Given CDPR's expertise in both third-person fantasy (The Witcher) and first-person sci-fi shooters (Cyberpunk), industry insiders suggest Hadar could be a groundbreaking RPG that blends elements from both successful formulas. At this stage, however, much remains shrouded in mystery.
Project Roadmap Comparison
| Project Name | Current Status | Target/Details |
|---|---|---|
| The Witcher 4 | Active Development | Targeting 2028 |
| Project Hadar | Concept/Prototyping | Hiring underway |
| The Witcher 1 Remake | On Hold | Resources diverted to Witcher 4 |
| The Witcher 3 Remastered | Launching Soon | Releasing this month |
With a massive slate of upcoming titles—including a Cyberpunk sequel, The Witcher 4, and Project Hadar—CD Projekt Red is entering one of the most productive and critical eras in its corporate history.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Project Hadar?
Project Hadar is an unannounced new game project currently in the concept and prototyping stage at CD Projekt Red.
2. Why is the Witcher 1 remake on hold?
CDPR has prioritized resources for The Witcher 4 and other major upcoming projects to ensure timely delivery.