CD Projekt Red: Rebuilding Trust with Gamers

The story behind Cyberpunk 2077 is one of high expectations and crushing disappointment. Following the massive success of The Witcher 3, CD Projekt Red was on a roll, and the anticipation for its next title was immense. However, the game's launch was marred by numerous performance issues, particularly on PS4 and Xbox One, leading to widespread criticism and a public rebuke from PlayStation. Nearly three years on, the game has undergone significant improvements, and the studio is now promoting its major expansion, Phantom Liberty. In a recent interview, CD Projekt's VP of PR and communication, Michał Platkow-Gilewski, reflected on the tumultuous period, acknowledging the need to rebuild trust with the gaming community and outlining the steps the company has taken to address its internal issues, including crunch culture and communication problems. With a renewed focus on work-life balance, empowerment of teams, and transparent communication, CD Projekt Red aims to rediscover its footing and deliver on its promises, starting with the Phantom Liberty expansion, which has garnered positive press previews. As the company looks to the future, it must balance its ambitious slate of projects, including a new IP, Witcher games, and a Cyberpunk sequel, with the need to maintain quality and avoid overstretching itself. The road to redemption will be long, but CD Projekt Red is determined to learn from its mistakes and emerge stronger, with a renewed commitment to its core values and the gaming community that has supported it thus far.