CD Projekt Red releases free Witcher 3 remaster with expansions
CD Projekt Red has officially confirmed a major free update for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, arriving on September 29th. This update includes the highly anticipated Songs of the Past expansion, along with both original DLCs, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. Beyond simply bundling existing content, the studio is delivering a full remaster of the base game to current standards.
The remaster focuses on modernizing the visual presentation with upgraded lighting that aligns with current industry standards. While the original game was already visually impressive, this update ensures the world looks its best on modern hardware. Under the hood, the engine has received significant improvements, including ray tracing enhancements and a revamped photo mode.
Gameplay mechanics have also seen substantial overhauls. Combat systems are being refined with new finishers, while movement and mount handling have been improved for smoother traversal. Geralt's Witcher signs now feature flashier visual effects, and monster behaviors have been enhanced to provide a more dynamic experience.
RPG elements receive attention through a complete revamp of the skill tree and the introduction of transmogrification. This new system allows players to apply stats from armor pieces they find onto outfits that better suit their aesthetic preferences. Additionally, the update brings improved menu navigation, quest tracking, and a host of accessibility features.
This release marks the second major upgrade for the title since its initial launch in 2022. With The Witcher 4 reportedly targeting a 2028 release window, this free remaster serves as a substantial bridge to keep the community engaged. The update is available for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.