In a significant move by CD Projekt Red, the developer has announced the discontinuation of support for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions of Gwent: The Witcher Card Game. This decision comes nearly a year after the game's initial release, marking a strategic pivot towards enhancing the experience on PC and mobile platforms.
The decision was explained in a detailed statement by the developers, who emphasized the challenges of maintaining feature parity across multiple versions of the game. The PS4 and Xbox One versions, while popular, have not matched the engagement levels seen on PC and mobile. Consequently, CD Projekt Red has decided to streamline their efforts to ensure that Gwent remains a robust and evolving card game experience.
Effective immediately, players on PS4 and Xbox One will no longer be able to make in-game purchases using real money. This is a prelude to the cessation of updates for these versions, which will officially end on December 9. Players need not worry about losing their progress, as CD Projekt Red is offering a transfer option. Between December 9, 2019, and June 9, 2020, players can move their progress to the PC or mobile versions of Gwent using a GOG account.
This transfer option is crucial for players who have invested time and effort into building their card collections and strategies. The process ensures that no achievements or purchases are lost in the transition, allowing players to seamlessly continue their journey in the Witcher universe.
CD Projekt Red's decision reflects a broader industry trend where developers are increasingly focusing on platforms that offer greater flexibility and a larger user base. The PC and mobile versions of Gwent have consistently outperformed their console counterparts, both in terms of player engagement and revenue. This move allows the developers to concentrate their resources on enhancing these platforms, promising a richer and more dynamic gaming experience.
As CD Projekt Red looks ahead, the focus will be on introducing new features and content updates that leverage the capabilities of PC and mobile devices. This transformation is expected to bring more intricate strategies and visually stunning card art, enhancing the overall appeal of Gwent. Players can look forward to a future where the game continues to evolve, adapting to new technologies and player expectations.
In conclusion, while the discontinuation of support for Gwent on PS4 and Xbox One may come as a disappointment to some, it is a calculated move by CD Projekt Red to ensure the longevity and success of the game. By concentrating efforts on the platforms with the most promise, the developers are setting the stage for Gwent to remain a beloved and competitive card game in the years to come.
