Casting details for the next Wolfenstein 3 game have surfaced, revealing that MachineGames is developing a new entry codenamed 'Valkyrie' featuring a Ukrainian orphan character alongside returning protagonist B.J. Blazkowicz. According to reports from Windows Central, along with an uncovered casting call, the project is well into production with performance capture scheduled to begin in April.
What we know about Wolfenstein 3's story
The casting call reveals a new character named Sofiya, described as a Ukrainian orphan between 8 and 11 years old who will accompany B.J. Blazkowicz on his travels. Sofiya is portrayed as 'initially suspicious and traumatised by war' but 'blooms under the care of the resistance' as a 'strong-willed survivor'.
The character description suggests a potential Last of Us-style dynamic between B.J. and Sofiya, with the veteran Nazi fighter taking on a protector role. This progression fits naturally with B.J.'s character arc, as he's becoming a father in the current timeline and would logically take a young orphan under his wing.
Sofiya travels with her adopted dog Ralph and forms a bond with the resistance, likely referring to the Kreisau Circle from previous games. The name might reference Zofia Blazkowicz, B.J.'s mother, though this connection remains unconfirmed.
Development timeline and production status
Performance capture is scheduled to begin in April, with additional shooting dates planned for later in 2026 and extending into 2027. The casting call lists Performance Director Tom Keegan, who directed performances in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Casting Director Emily Schweber, who worked on previous Wolfenstein entries.
MachineGames appears to have shifted primary focus to 'Valkyrie' following the December 2024 release of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. With over a year of full development time excluding pre-production, the studio is well into the production phase.
Given this timeline, Wolfenstein 3 likely won't release until 2027 at the earliest. The extended production schedule suggests MachineGames is taking time to fully develop the new character dynamics and story elements.
Prime Video TV series coordination
A Wolfenstein TV series adaptation is reportedly in development for Prime Video, with Bethesda planning to coordinate the release around the same time as Wolfenstein 3. This approach mirrors Sony's strategy of releasing film and TV adaptations alongside game releases for maximum franchise impact.
The TV series could provide additional context for Sofiya's character and the war-torn world she inhabits. Prime Video's global reach, including availability in the UAE, means regional audiences will have access to both the game and its television companion when they launch.
Studio commitment to franchise
MachineGames Studio Director Jerk Gustafsson recently confirmed the team's long-term commitment to Wolfenstein. 'The studio's intention has always been to return to the iconic franchise,' Gustafsson said, though he stopped short of explicitly confirming it as their next release.
This follows the studio's successful track record with the franchise, including Wolfenstein: The New Order and Wolfenstein: The New Colossus. The introduction of Sofiya suggests MachineGames is expanding the series' emotional depth while maintaining its core Nazi-fighting gameplay.
The casting call's emphasis on Sofiya's role indicates she'll be central to the narrative, potentially setting up future entries if the character proves popular with players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wolfenstein 3 officially confirmed?
While not officially announced, reports from Windows Central and Kotaku, along with casting calls and studio director comments, strongly indicate MachineGames is developing the next Wolfenstein game, codenamed 'Valkyrie'.
Who is Sofiya in Wolfenstein 3?
Sofiya is a new character described as an 8-11 year old Ukrainian orphan who accompanies B.J. Blazkowicz. She's portrayed as initially traumatised by war but becomes a strong-willed survivor under the resistance's care.
When will Wolfenstein 3 be released?
Performance capture begins in April 2026, with additional shooting planned through 2027. This suggests a release date of 2027 at the earliest, though no official date has been announced.
Will there be a Wolfenstein TV series?
Yes, a Wolfenstein TV series adaptation is reportedly in development for Prime Video. Bethesda plans to coordinate its release around the same time as Wolfenstein 3 for maximum franchise impact.
Is B.J. Blazkowicz returning in Wolfenstein 3?
Yes, the casting call confirms B.J. Blazkowicz returns as the protagonist. The new character Sofiya is described as forming a bond with him and accompanying him on his travels.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates and news
Member discussion