Actor Jake Lampert appears to be joining the cast of The Witcher 4: Polaris, reportedly portraying a character named Branko. This news marks the first character revelation for the highly anticipated next installment in The Witcher series. Sources suggest that Lampert may start motion capture work for the role in 2025, a key component of bringing characters to life in CD Projekt Red’s (CDPR) latest RPG project.
Polaris is the codename for this upcoming Witcher entry, marking a significant shift in the series as CDPR transitions from its proprietary REDengine to Unreal Engine 5. This change is expected to elevate the visual and technical aspects of the game, bringing a fresh look and feel to the Witcher universe. CD Projekt Red has ambitious plans for this project, as Polaris is set to be the beginning of a new trilogy of AAA RPGs. This future trilogy aims to expand the franchise with a saga distinct from the narrative that concluded with 2015’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.
The Witcher series has a long and successful history, debuting in 2007 and concluding its main storyline with the critically acclaimed Witcher 3, which earned accolades worldwide and solidified CDPR’s reputation as a premier RPG developer. The series is based on the novels by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, offering a rich world of fantasy that has captivated both readers and gamers. By 2023, the franchise has sold over 75 million units, including its main games, expansions, and several spin-offs. The new trilogy beginning with Polaris is expected to build on this legacy, delivering a fresh saga while continuing to expand the beloved Witcher universe.
CDPR announced in March 2022 that Polaris was in early development, with a new trilogy planned to follow this installment. In October 2022, CDPR further expanded its plans with a remake of the original The Witcher in collaboration with Fool’s Theory, as well as another project in development by The Molasses Flood.
While further details on Lampert’s role as Branko are still under wraps, fans can expect a blend of familiar Witcher themes and new character dynamics as CDPR begins this new chapter.
