As of September 29, 2026, CD Projekt Red's updated version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt holds the highest review score for a new release this year, according to Metacritic. The PC version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Remastered has achieved a Metascore of 94 based on eight reviews.
While this score is based on a limited number of reviews, other platforms such as PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and the Nintendo Switch 2 have also received high scores in the 9-10 range for their respective versions. This is not the first time a remastered or re-released game has topped Metacritic's charts; last year, the Switch 2 edition of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom secured the top spot. The original The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains Metacritic's all-time highest-rated game with a score of 99.
The situation with The Witcher 3 Remastered is notable because, on most platforms, it is a free upgrade for existing owners. On Steam, it replaces the original game rather than receiving a separate listing, leading many publications to forgo individual reviews. Those that have reviewed the update, however, have expressed significant praise.
Noisy Pixel awarded the game a 9/10, with reviewer Azario Lopez stating that it remains an exceptional RPG due to its characters, side quests, and world, even acknowledging that combat and movement mechanics show their age. Push Square's Robert Ramsey noted that the combat in the PS5 version felt improved and that the game looked its best, highlighting the upgraded lighting and environmental assets.
Jennifer Young of Windows Central, reviewing the Xbox Series X version, praised the game's enduring fun and how the update successfully modernized the classic with impressive visuals, a new dynamic camera system, and revamped skill trees. Young also commended CD Projekt Red for treating the 11-year-old game with the care of a major launch, recognizing its enduring popularity with the community.
Polygon's Francesco Cacciatore described the remastered edition as an "unfinished masterpiece," appreciating that the updates enhanced the game without fundamentally altering its core identity. He suggested that the game's imperfections contribute to its unique and memorable qualities.
With a 94 Metascore, The Witcher 3 Remastered is a strong contender for game of the year, though potential releases like Grand Theft Auto 6 and the remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time could challenge its position by the end of 2026.