Almost eleven years after The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt first launched, CD Projekt Red has shocked the gaming world by announcing a brand‑new expansion: Songs of the Past. While the leak forced an early reveal, the news has been met with overwhelming excitement. But the real headline is this: the DLC will tie directly into The Witcher 4, serving as a narrative bridge between Geralt of Rivia’s era and Ciri’s upcoming solo saga.
A Passing of the Torch
CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Ciri will be the sole protagonist of The Witcher 4. Geralt is expected to appear, but likely as a mentor or supporting character – a role similar to Vesemir in the previous games. Before that torch is fully passed, however, the White Wolf has one last challenge to face.
The official description of Songs of the Past states that “players can once again take on the role of Geralt of Rivia and embark on a brand‑new adventure before heading out on the Path as Ciri in the upcoming The Witcher 4.” This is the clearest indication yet that the expansion will set the stage for the sequel. While no specific plot details have been shared, the DLC is expected to introduce themes, characters, or events that directly influence Ciri’s journey.
Geralt’s Final Hunt?
Fans are already theorizing about the nature of this “last adventure.” Will Geralt finally retire for good, or will the expansion end with his death – a poignant passing of the torch to Ciri? Either way, Songs of the Past is being positioned as a pivotal chapter in the Witcher saga, not just a standalone side story.
Some theories suggest the DLC may take Geralt to a new continent, based on increased system requirements that hint at a much larger map. Previous leaks also pointed to a brand‑new region, which would make Songs of the Past the most ambitious expansion yet – even bigger than Blood and Wine.
Next‑Gen Exclusive, New Requirements
Notably, Songs of the Past will only be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S – there will be no last‑gen or Nintendo Switch version. CD Projekt Red has also warned that system requirements will change, taking advantage of modern hardware that wasn’t available when The Witcher 3 originally launched in 2015. This suggests significant graphical and performance upgrades, alongside the larger world.
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A Long Wait, But Worth It
The expansion is scheduled for 2027 – still a long way off. However, the promise of a direct narrative link to The Witcher 4 (expected late 2028 or 2029) makes the wait easier to bear. For fans who have followed Geralt since 2007, this will be a bittersweet farewell. And for those eager to see Ciri’s next chapter, Songs of the Past will offer invaluable context.
Until then, the Path remains open. And the White Wolf has one more song to sing.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is available now. Songs of the Past arrives in 2027 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. The Witcher 4 is expected in late 2028 or 2029.