CD Projekt Red's Project Hadar Leaks via Job Listing: Action RPG with Melee Combat Focus Emerges

WARSAW, Poland—CD Projekt Red (CDPR), the studio behind The Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077, is quietly shaping its next AAA franchise—codenamed Project Hadar—and a new job listing suggests it will be a melee-focused action RPG, marking a stark departure from the gunplay of Cyberpunk.

The studio recently posted a Senior Gameplay Designer role explicitly seeking developers with "hands-on experience implementing melee combat systems" for an "open-world RPG." The listing emphasizes designing "player-facing features" and "combat mechanics," strongly hinting that Hadar will prioritize swordplay, martial arts, or other close-quarters combat over ranged weapons.

What the Job Listing Reveals

Combat-Centric Design: Responsibilities include prototyping and refining "combat systems," suggesting melee mechanics will be a core pillar.
Open-World Integration: Candidates must navigate "non-linear gameplay" challenges, implying vast environments tailored for dynamic brawls.
Multiplatform Development: The role confirms Hadar is targeting PC and "latest-generation consoles," aligning with CDPR’s next-gen focus.

Industry analysts note this direction diverges sharply from Cyberpunk 2077’s high-tech arsenal. "[Melee combat in The Witcher 3] was visceral and tactical," says games journalist Alex Morgan. "If Hadar doubles down on that DNA while evolving it, we could see CDPR redefine action RPGs again."

The Bigger Picture

Little is known about Project Hadar, announced in 2022 as CDPR’s first original IP since Cyberpunk. It’s the studio’s third franchise, developed alongside The Witcher 4 (Polaris) and a Cyberpunk sequel. Speculation suggests Hadar may blend fantasy and sci-fi elements—leaked concept art hinted at cosmic-horror aesthetics—but CDPR remains tight-lipped.

For deeper analysis, Tech4Gamers breaks down the job listing’s implications here.

CDPR’s Roadmap

With Cyberpunk 2077’s redemption arc complete post-Phantom Liberty, resources are shifting toward Hadar and Polaris. The studio plans to launch both franchises within a "new trilogy," though Hadar remains early in production.

What’s Next?
Expect no teasers soon—CDPR’s focus is first on The Witcher 4, slated for a 2026-2027 release. But as job listings multiply, Hadar’s combat-driven identity is coming into focus. If CDPR nails the rhythm of blades and brutality, RPG fans may have a new obsession brewing.

Stay tuned for updates.