CD Projekt Red is continuing development on The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt with its third expansion, "Songs of the Past," scheduled for release in 2027. The expansion promises a new region to explore, new monsters to encounter, and additional narrative content.
In an interview with IGN, level design lead Miles Tost and writer Paula Meissner shared insights into how the studio approaches expanding the beloved game's world while remaining faithful to its established lore.
Crafting a Distinctive New Region
Tost explained that each region in The Witcher 3 expansions is designed to feel unique, not only visually but also in terms of player traversal. While "Songs of the Past" will not introduce new movement mechanics, the new region, Lettin, will have its own distinct environmental feel. The developers are incorporating cultural influences from both British aristocracy and the Polish countryside into Lettin's architecture and overall identity.
A key element in differentiating Lettin is its local alcoholic beverage, "Bracket," a fusion of honey and beer. This drink, derived from local resources like honey and hops, not only serves as a cultural export and economic driver for the region but also directly influences the design of its monsters. For instance, the new monster, the Swarmion, is attracted to honey, providing a narrative justification for its presence in the area.
Navigating Established Lore
Meissner highlighted the crucial role of CD Projekt Red's dedicated lore team, who collaborate closely to ensure all new content aligns with the extensive Witcher universe established in the books and previous games. The team actively consults with lore experts to avoid contradicting existing canon.
When asked about the challenges of expanding the lore, Tost noted that the developers focus on finding creative ways to build upon the existing narrative rather than retconning events. He cited the example of bringing back characters like Regis, explaining that the key is to provide a logical and plausible in-universe explanation. This approach allows for the evolution of the franchise while respecting its established foundations, sometimes even drawing inspiration from how the original author, Andrzej Sapkowski, approached lore inconsistencies in his books.