By Tj Denzer
Copyright shacknews
At this point, Adnrzej Sapkowski is probably the Polish writer that even those who don’t know him have experienced most. His work on the Witcher books were the basis for the games that would go on to be a global phenomenon and put CD Projekt RED firmly on the map. He’s also famously surly about his position and has never showed too much enthusiasm about his success and recognition. Nonetheless, the Polish government values his work and awarded him this week with a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to Polish heritage.
The Polish government shared word of Andrzej Sapkowski’s award on social media this week, sharing pictures from the occasion. Sapkowski was awarded the Polish Gold Gloria Artis Medal for Merit to Culture. It’s an award that’s kept for Polish artists whose works elevate the nation.
Andrzej Sapkowski uhonorowany Złotym Medalem „Zasłużony Kulturze Gloria Artis”Andrzej Sapkowski – pisarz, twórca postaci Wiedźmina, jeden z najczęściej tłumaczonych na języki obce autorów fantastyki – został odznaczony Złotym Medalem „Zasłużony Kulturze Gloria Artis. Najwyższe… pic.twitter.com/HAsuteuJXG
— Ministerstwo Kultury i Dziedzictwa Narodowego (@kultura_gov_pl) September 15, 2025
At this point that could absolutely be said of Sapkowski, who was the original writer of the Witcher books that detail the adventures of Geralt and his friends and foes. Certainly, The Witcher didn’t take off until it caught fire in the games developed by CD Projekt RED, but that also drove attention back towards Sapkowski’s books. Infamously, there was bad blood between Sapkowski and CDPR for years because he cared little for games and the developer got the license for the Witcher at a dirt cheap price, as shared in a Eurogamer interview. However, Sapkowski and CD Projekt have since buried the hatchet as they enjoy their success.
Once again, Sapkowski doesn’t show too much enthusiasm for his latest award, but his mark on Polish arts is undeniable at this point. For what comes next in the Witcher series, including news on the upcoming fourth game, stay tuned to the Witcher series topic.
