CD PROJEKT RED has officially announced The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Remastered, a comprehensive free upgrade for the acclaimed 2015 role-playing game. The remastered edition was revealed during gamescom Opening Night Live 2026 and is set to launch on September 29, 2026.
The announcement came alongside a surprise for existing players: all current owners of the base game immediately received free access to the two critically acclaimed expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. The expansions will also be included in the base version of the remaster.
Release Date and Platforms
The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Remastered launches on September 29, 2026, for the following platforms:
| Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG) | Free upgrade for existing owners |
| PlayStation 5 | Free upgrade for existing owners |
| Xbox Series X/S | Free upgrade for existing owners |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Native version, pre-orders available |
| Battle.net | New platform partnership with Blizzard |
Who Qualifies for the Free Upgrade
The remaster is a free upgrade for players who already own The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on qualifying platforms. Eligible platforms include PC via GOG, Steam, and the Epic Games Store, as well as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
For Nintendo Switch owners, CD PROJEKT RED has confirmed that they will be able to claim the Remastered version on Nintendo Switch 2 following its release. Notably, the original Nintendo Switch version is not listed among the platforms receiving the upgrade.
New Features and Improvements
The remastered edition brings significant enhancements across multiple aspects of the game.
Visual and Performance Upgrades
- Upgraded textures, lighting, and ray tracing support
- Denser foliage and improved HDR
- Support for newer upscaling algorithms including DLSS 4.5 and FSR 4
Combat and Gameplay Overhaul
- Enhanced combat system with new finisher animations
- New Witcher signs effects and visual upgrades
- Improved traversal and movement, including refined mantling and climbing mechanics
- Revamped mount handling for Roach
- Enhanced monster behaviors
Progression and Quality of Life
- Revamped skill tree with reimagined progression system
- Transmogrification system allowing players to choose stats while visually equipping different armor
- Expanded photo mode with new options
- Cross-platform mod support
Remastered vs. Original: Comparison Table
| Feature | Original | Remastered |
|---|---|---|
| Visuals | 2015-era graphics | Upgraded textures, lighting, ray tracing, DLSS 4.5/FSR 4 support |
| Combat | Original system | Enhanced combat, new finishers, new Sign effects |
| Movement | Standard traversal | Improved mantling, climbing, overall movement |
| Mount Handling | Basic horse controls | Revamped handling and riding animations |
| Skill Tree | Original progression | Reimagined skill tree |
| Photo Mode | Limited options | Expanded photo mode |
| Monster AI | Original behaviors | Enhanced monster behaviors |
| Transmogrification | Not available | Armor appearance/stats customization |
| Expansions | Purchased separately | Included free with Remastered |
Expansion ‘Songs of the Past’ Announced
Alongside the Remastered announcement, CD PROJEKT RED also shared a first look at a new expansion, Songs of the Past, co-developed with Fool’s Theory, a studio with leadership comprised of Witcher 3 veterans. The expansion is expected to release in 2027. Additionally, the Remastered upgrade is being co-developed with Yigsoft, a team with a proven track record of working on The Witcher 3.
The Witcher 3 on Battle.net
CD PROJEKT RED has partnered with Blizzard Entertainment to bring The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered and Songs of the Past to Battle.net. Players who purchase the expansion on Blizzard’s platform will unlock a special Geralt-inspired skin in Diablo IV, with further details expected at BlizzCon in September.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Remastered?
It is a comprehensive free upgrade to The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt featuring enhanced visuals, improved combat, reworked traversal, a revamped skill tree, and many other gameplay improvements.
When is the Witcher 3 Remastered release date?
The remaster launches on September 29, 2026.
Is the Witcher 3 Remastered free?
Yes, it is a free upgrade for existing owners of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on qualifying platforms.
Which platforms support the Witcher 3 Remastered?
The remaster is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Battle.net.
Does the remaster include the expansions?
Yes, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine are included in the Remastered version. Current owners also receive these expansions for free immediately.
What gameplay changes are in the remaster?
Changes include enhanced combat, new finishers, improved traversal, revamped mount handling, enhanced monster behaviors, a reimagined skill tree, transmogrification, and an expanded photo mode.
Conclusion
The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Remastered represents a significant upgrade to one of the most celebrated RPGs of all time. With its September 29 release date rapidly approaching, players on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S can look forward to a free upgrade that brings modern visuals, refined gameplay, and meaningful quality-of-life improvements to Geralt of Rivia’s legendary journey.