The Witcher 3: remastered - free upgrade with new content and improvements

In brief

The remastered edition of The Witcher 3 is free for current owners, highlighting CD Projekt Red’s loyalty to its fanbase.
The visual and gameplay improvements are substantial, enriching the experience for both new and returning players.
The Songs of the Past expansion, developed alongside the remastered edition, promises new storylines and gameplay elements.

GAME-scanner analysis

The announcement of The Witcher 3’s remastered edition at Gamescom 2026 marks an important step for CD Projekt Red. By offering this upgrade for free, the company is not only showing appreciation for existing players, but also setting a precedent in the industry. This could inspire other developers to consider more player-friendly strategies, especially at a time when many remasters are sold separately. The significant visual and gameplay improvements, including changes to horse riding and combat, are designed to modernize the experience and make it more appealing to a new audience. The collaboration with other developers on the Songs of the Past expansion may also point to renewed creativity within CD Projekt Red, further strengthening the future of the franchise.

What does this mean for players?

For players, this free upgrade means they can enjoy a visually enhanced version of one of the most iconic RPGs without any extra cost. That could increase engagement with the franchise and attract new players who may have been hesitant to jump in before. The addition of new content in the form of the expansion could also extend the game’s lifespan, which is good news for the community and the overall experience. Players can look forward to new storylines that deepen the game even further, while the promise of improved gameplay elements should make it even more appealing.