With the scheduled arrival of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered on September 29, 2026, the world of Geralt of Rivia is entering a second decade of technical refinement. As a free upgrade for existing owners, the Remastered edition is positioned as the definitive way to experience a narrative that has already been expanded through multiple console generations. However, for those looking to deepen their understanding of the Continent before the 2027 release of the Songs of the Past expansion, the game’s literary foundations have never been more accessible.
The timing is particularly relevant following the international release of Andrzej Sapkowski’s latest novel, Crossroads of Ravens (Rozdroże kruków), in late 2025. Unlike the core pentalogy, which focuses heavily on the Prophecy of the Elder Blood and the fate of Ciri, Crossroads of Ravens serves as a standalone prequel. By exploring the early years of a younger Geralt, the novel offers a fresh perspective that mirrors the “back-to-basics” focus often sought by players returning to the earlier zones of the game.
For those who have yet to move beyond the digital adaptations, a significant price drop on the physical collection has created a rare entry point. The complete 8-book Witcher boxset is currently retailing for approximately AU$68, a sharp decline from its AU$140 RRP. This discount makes the physical collection notably more affordable than its digital counterpart, with the Kindle edition currently priced at AU$94.99.
What the 8-Book Collection Covers
The current boxset on sale includes the entirety of the original saga and the secondary material that informs the world-building seen in the CD Projekt Red adaptations. The collection consists of:
- The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny: The original short story collections that establish Geralt’s reputation and his “Child of Surprise” bond with Ciri.
- Season of Storms: A “sidequel” set between the short stories.
- The Main Saga: Blood of Elves, Time of Contempt, Baptism of Fire, The Tower of the Swallow, and The Lady of the Lake.
While Crossroads of Ravens is sold separately due to its recent 2025 release, the core 8-book set provides the essential context for the characters and political tensions that drive The Witcher 3. Understanding the nuances of the Lodge of Sorceresses or the true weight of the Nilfgaardian invasion changes the player’s perception of major choice-points within the game.
The longevity of The Witcher 3—now extending toward 2027 with the Songs of the Past project—is supported by the franchise’s upcoming release schedule. With the Remastered edition arriving on September 29, 2026, the books no longer feel like optional homework; they are increasingly the primary source of truth for a world that continues to grow in detail and visual fidelity.
