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Despite this early start, Metropolis Software’s project never reached the finish line. Chmielarz attributes the failure to what he describes as “total foolishness.” He explained that the studio fell into a classic trap: rather than focusing their newfound success on one or two projects, they overextended, attempting to develop four games simultaneously. Predictably, capital began to dry up.
Their publisher at the time, TopWare Interactive, eventually deprioritized the project because The Witcher lacked international recognition outside of Poland. “They preferred we focus on real-time strategy and point-and-click adventures because those genres sold well in Germany,” Chmielarz explained. Consequently, the original Witcher game “faded away quietly without an official cancellation notice.”
By 2002, CD Projekt Red—which eventually acquired Metropolis Software—inked its own deal with Sapkowski. While Chmielarz initially suspected his original contract might still be valid, he chose not to intervene. “I knew we weren’t in a position to complete it, so I just hoped they’d build something special,” he said.
Years later, he has no regrets. Chmielarz expressed genuine admiration for the world CD Projekt Red built, admitting they crafted a far superior game than Metropolis likely would have. “I love what they’ve achieved,” he concluded, noting that the franchise’s ultimate success was the best possible outcome.
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Source: gamesradar.com
