Update: Sebastian Kalemba, a director working on Witcher 4, has clarified on social media that Ciri’s model has not been modified and remains the same. The difference noticed might be due to lighting and different angles.

Original Report:

Fans have criticized Ciri for taking the lead in future Witcher games and for her updated facial model. They complained that the new Ciri model looks nothing like its predecessor and that somehow it’s been toned down.

However, CDPR has released new behind-the-scenes footage from the trailer, which apparently shows an updated version of Ciri’s model.

Fans pointed out the difference, claiming that the new model is much more similar to her Witcher 3 appearance and greatly improved from the initial trailer.

Why it matters: Asian studios have recently accused Western developers of falling behind in character appeal. Many claimed that CDPR should follow in the same footsteps, but the updated model reveals that it hasn’t fallen behind in its work. Fan Points Out Difference Between Ciri’s Facial Models In New Footage || Source: X
One fan noticed that Ciri’s facial structure had changed entirely. He added that the change came to fruition because of the gamers’ pressure. Another Fan Points Detailed Difference In The New Facial Model || Source: X
Another fan goes deep into the differences, implying that CDPR reshaped much of Ciri’s facial features, changing her nose shape and upper lip and reworking her eyebrows.

While the changes are noticeable, it could be due to the difference in lighting between the updated footage and the initial trailer. However, it’s important to notice that this isn’t the first time we’ve seen such a huge difference in character models. First Facial Model For Geralt In The Witcher 3 Initial Trailer
CDPR initially revealed a vastly different facial model for Geralt compared to his final gameplay version. Once The Witcher 4’s gameplay drops, it is speculated that Ciri will look even better.