The Witcher 3 Remastered Launches September 29: Official Details

CD PROJEKT RED officially announced The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Remastered during the Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026 event. The updated version is scheduled to launch on September 29, 2026. This release follows other major industry updates, including the recently discussed 2026 Release Date for other high-profile projects. The developer confirmed that the Remastered edition will be provided as a free upgrade for all existing owners of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on qualifying platforms.

On the technical front, CDPR isn’t holding back. Players can expect updated textures, new foliage shading, and an advanced path tracing system. The lighting systems have been overhauled to sharpen the atmosphere across all environments. For console players, the game will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, featuring specific support for the PlayStation 5 Pro hardware. Furthermore, the game will receive a native version for the Nintendo Switch 2. PC users can access the game via Steam, the Epic Games Store, and Battle.net—the latter made possible through a new partnership between CD PROJEKT RED and Blizzard Entertainment.

Gameplay Overhauls and New Features

The Remastered edition introduces significant gameplay changes beyond simple visual tweaks. CD PROJEKT RED has implemented a revamped skill tree and enhanced monster behaviors to keep veteran players on their toes. Mount handling for Roach has been improved, and combat mechanics now include refined movement and new finishers. Additionally, the update introduces a transmogrification (transmog) system, a more immersive meditation system, and an expanded photo mode for players looking to capture the Continent’s vistas.

In a surprising move, the developer announced that the Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine expansions are now free for all owners of the base game, effective immediately. This follows a trend of offering substantial value to players, similar to the praise seen in the Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC review regarding massive content additions.

Songs of the Past and the Future of the Franchise

During the reveal, a new Story Expansion titled Songs of the Past was unveiled. This content is slated for a 2027 release and will take place in Letten, a rural land that hides dark secrets. The expansion will introduce new mutagens and a chain-based weapon for Geralt to utilize in combat. While this remaster and expansion keep fans busy, the developer also noted that The Witcher 4, known as Project Polaris, remains in development. That project currently has a projected 2028 release window and is expected to focus on the character Ciri.