CD Projekt Red teases new melee-based title via job listing

CD Projekt Red has revealed new clues about its mysterious project, codenamed Hadar, through a recent job listing. The studio is seeking a Senior Gameplay Designer with experience in melee-oriented RPG/action games, hinting that Project Hadar may lean heavily into close-quarters combat—possibly offering something quite different from the gunplay-focused Cyberpunk 2077.

Project Hadar May Mark a Shift from Gunplay to Close-Combat

While details remain sparse, the listing describes Project Hadar as a completely new IP still in early development. CD Projekt Red encourages bold ideas and creative exploration, noting that new hires will help shape the project’s vision from the ground up. The studio’s preference for candidates with experience in Unreal Engine 5 and a background in melee-focused titles strongly suggests that Project Hadar could be CD Projekt Red’s first major venture centered around hand-to-hand or weapon-based combat since The Witcher series.

This development comes amid a busy period for CD Projekt Red. Cyberpunk 2077 has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to the acclaimed Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty expansion and a surprise crossover with Tencent’s Arena Breakout: Infinite, which features iconic visuals like the Samurai jacket and Night City’s neon-drenched streets. These updates—combined with the game’s recent Mac launch and continuous patch support—have helped CD Projekt Red rebuild its reputation after a rocky start in 2020.

Alongside Hadar, CD Projekt Red is also working on The Witcher 4 and a full sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, indicating a packed schedule of AAA RPGs in the coming years. While it may be a while before Project Hadar is officially unveiled, this job listing offers fans their first real insight into what the new universe might feel like—grounded, physical, and distinctly different.

If you haven’t experienced CD Projekt Red’s current titles yet, it’s a great time to jump in. Use our price comparator tool to find the best deals on Cyberpunk 2077 or The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt across all platforms.