CD Projekt Red, the studio behind the acclaimed The Witcher and Cyberpunk series, is venturing into uncharted territory with its new IP, Hadar. While details are scarce, the studio has shared some intriguing insights into what players can expect from this upcoming title.
The project, first announced in 2026, has been in the early stages of development. However, significant progress has been made, with the team establishing the foundational elements of this new intellectual property. In March 2026, joint CEO Michał Nowakowski revealed that the team is designing specific elements and creating multiple prototypes, all implemented directly in Unreal Engine.
The Vision Behind Hadar
Hadar is being developed as an emotional, open-world experience that aims to leave a lasting impression on gamers. This vision aligns with CD Projekt Red’s reputation for crafting deeply engaging narratives and immersive worlds. The studio’s focus on narrative-driven and emotional design suggests that Hadar will continue this tradition, offering a story that resonates with players on a personal level.
One of the most exciting aspects of Hadar is its open-world nature. While this feature is not explicitly mentioned in all job listings, it is a natural extension of the studio’s previous work. The open-world format allows for extensive exploration and player freedom, key components that have made The Witcher and Cyberpunk so successful.
The Development Team
As of April 30, 2026, there are 24 developers working on Hadar. This is a relatively small team compared to the 513 developers working on The Witcher 4 and the 163 on Cyberpunk 2. However, the studio is actively hiring, indicating a planned expansion of the development team. This growth is crucial for bringing Hadar’s ambitious vision to life.
The studio’s commitment to Hadar is evident in its hiring practices. Job listings for roles such as engineering director emphasize the need for individuals who can push the boundaries of immersive gaming. These positions are vital for developing the game’s mechanics, prototypes, and overall design.
What to Expect
While it may be some time before we see Hadar in action, the studio’s track record provides a good indication of what to expect. CD Projekt Red has a history of delivering high-quality, narrative-rich experiences. Hadar is likely to follow suit, offering a compelling story set within a vast, explorable world.
In addition to Hadar, CD Projekt Red has several other projects in the works. The upcoming expansion for The Witcher 3, titled Songs of the Past, is set to release next year. The studio has also teased other unannounced projects that are in advanced stages of development, promising a wealth of content for fans in the coming years.
The Future of CD Projekt Red
CD Projekt Red’s diverse portfolio ensures that fans have much to look forward to. From the highly anticipated The Witcher 4 and Cyberpunk 2 to the mysterious Hadar, the studio is poised to deliver a range of experiences that cater to different tastes. The focus on emotional storytelling and open-world exploration suggests that Hadar will be a standout title in the studio’s lineup.
As the development of Hadar progresses, more details are expected to emerge. Fans can stay updated by following the latest news and job listings from CD Projekt Red. The studio’s commitment to innovation and quality ensures that Hadar will be a project worth watching.
