
Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 3 delve into intense themes, prompting discussions on creative boundaries among developers. Senior quest designer Philipp Weber emphasizes that CD Projekt Red does not approach serious narratives merely to provoke. He stated, “We do heavy things if we have something meaningful to say, and then we also dare to go there.” This commitment to depth is seen in the impactful stories found in both games.
In discussions regarding the Bloody Baron quest from The Witcher 3, which explores miscarriage and domestic abuse, and the Sinnerman quest in Cyberpunk 2077, focusing on themes of crucifixion, Weber notes that sensitivity is paramount in handling such material. He asserts that engaging in challenging subjects is essential for creating art, emphasizing dialogue and bravery in storytelling decisions.
He remarks, “If you never have that discussion, you're probably not making art…” This philosophy reflects how The Witcher 3 has significantly influenced gaming culture, sparking conversations around the narratives in video games and their role in exploring impactful topics.