CD Projekt Red has announced a remastered version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, set to release on September 29 as a free update for all owners of the original game. This extensive overhaul goes beyond a mere visual polish, introducing significant changes to core gameplay mechanics.
Enhancements Across the Board
The remaster includes updated textures, advanced path tracing, improved foliage rendering, and a revamped rendering system, promising a significant visual upgrade. Level design lead Miles Tost highlighted these graphical improvements, stating that Geralt has "never looked this good."
Beyond the visuals, the update addresses combat, movement, Roach riding, monster behaviors, the skill tree, and introduces transmogrification and an improved photo mode. Combat has been modernized with a smoother, more precise feel, featuring an updated camera, targeting system, new animations, and new finishers. The ability system has also been completely revamped to offer players more RPG options.
Free Expansions and Future Content
In addition to the game enhancements, the remastered edition will bundle the two existing expansions. Critically, all current owners of The Witcher 3 will receive both the remastered update and these expansions completely free of charge. This release precedes the upcoming DLC, "Songs of the Past," which is scheduled for release next year.
While the full scope of togglable features remains to be seen, including the ability to opt out of certain gameplay tweaks, the focus is on a more contemporary and refined experience for this acclaimed RPG.
