The Witcher 4: Unveiling the Breath-taking Evolution of Character Design

Highlights

Character design plays a significant role in improving a game's overall visual experience, and The Witcher 3 proves that it should not be overlooked.

In The Witcher series, one can find an array of fascinating cursed characters. Among them is Uma, whose peculiar appearance never fails to mesmerize players. The future creation of cursed characters in The Witcher 4 by CD Projekt Red may face a challenge in surpassing the exceptional visual design of Uma, as his singular and unforgettable look has set a remarkable standard.

The impact of character design on games is often overlooked, with the focus being on flashy combat elements and detailed environmental design. However, sub-par character aesthetics can't go unnoticed, as seen with Abigail in Street Fighter 5, Mega Man in Street Fighter X Tekken, and Frey in Forspoken. Giving attention to a character's appearance and actions can greatly enhance a game's visual experience. The Witcher series is known for its impressive character design, particularly with their cursed personas. The upcoming Witcher 4 will have a tough time surpassing the high standards set by these cursed characters.

Curses are not uncommon in The Witcher universe, although they may not be mainstream in The Continent. Several notable characters in the series are afflicted with curses, such as Nivellen who was transformed into a beast known as Fanger, instilling fear in the local children of Redania. Uma is another cursed character in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, with a distinctive appearance that may be difficult to replicate in The Witcher 4 for CD Projekt Red.

Optics and Player Expectation Could Be Too Much for another Cursed Character

Rarely do characters possess a visually striking appearance that feels like a product of an exaggerated, fantastical imagination. However, in The Witcher 3, Uma's character design captivated attention in a peculiar yet fascinating way. Aptly named Uma, which stands for Ugliest Man Alive, this character's unique features include a hunched and grotesquely proportioned body, a comically oversized head, and a multitude of angry red sores littering his skin. Even within the realm of The Witcher's mythical universe, Uma's distinct visual profile stands out like no other, endearing him to players through his interactions with Geralt.

Uma's inability to speak necessitates the use of non-verbal cues for communication, showcasing his easily distracted, childlike curiosity. Having been sold and gambled away by various masters, Uma eventually becomes a court jester for Phillip Strenger at Crow's Perch, after the Baron acquires him through a wager with a merchant. Geralt and Yennefer embark on a series of endeavors to lift Uma's curse, leading to the revelation of his true identity as Avallac'h, Sage of the Aen Elle Elves. Uma's clumsy movements provide comedic relief in The Witcher 3, and given the success of his character, one can only expect The Witcher 4 to attempt to surpass it.

However, CD Projekt Red, similar to the Netflix series adaptation, will encounter challenges in this aspect. The character of Uma can potentially be viewed as discriminatory in certain circles because he serves no purpose other than as entertainment before the curse is lifted in The Witcher 3. This sole purpose arises from his physical and mental disabilities. Additionally, Uma is such a peculiar character that it is difficult to envision anything stranger being created in the sequel, guaranteeing that he will likely remain the most memorable character design in the franchise.

Given that The Witcher showcases society's flaws in all its extravagant glory, it would not be unreasonable to anticipate more cursed characters in the new storyline of The Witcher 4. However, it is not easy to replace Uma's beloved status among the player base, and it is challenging to see how the developer intends to surpass his unique appearance without making the new character appear inhuman.

The Witcher 4 is in development.