Players on the Switch 2 have discovered a way to obtain a free copy of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered without needing to own the original game. This exploit leverages the console's upgrade process, which treats the remastered version as a separate download.
On most platforms, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered is provided as a free upgrade to existing owners of the digital version of The Witcher 3. However, for the Switch 2, the remastered edition must be downloaded as a distinct game. This process effectively adds a new copy of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered to a user's digital library.
Exploiting the Free Upgrade
A physical copy of The Witcher 3 for the original Nintendo Switch, when inserted into a Switch 2, grants the user a digital license for the remastered version. Notably, the physical cartridge does not need to remain in the console for the remastered game to be playable, as it creates an additional, standalone digital copy. This has led to players using the same physical cartridge on multiple Switch 2 consoles to acquire numerous free copies of the remaster.
This glitch means that any Switch 2 owner can acquire The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered by simply borrowing a physical copy of the original game from a friend or a library, even if they have never owned the game before. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered, released on September 29, features numerous enhancements including improved visuals and performance, a revamped skill system, and refined combat mechanics, making it a significant upgrade for players.
Given that the remastered version is intended as a free upgrade for existing owners, it is unlikely that CD Projekt Red or Nintendo will quickly patch this exploit. Players with a physical copy of The Witcher 3 for the original Switch may wish to take advantage of this opportunity.