The Witcher 3 continues to evolve more than eleven years after its release. Since September 29, 2026, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered has been available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2. The upgrade is free for eligible owners and now includes Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine at no extra cost. Meanwhile, Geralt will return in 2027 in Songs of the Past, a third paid expansion set in Letten.

All The Witcher 3 updates: timeline

To understand the current version of The Witcher 3, it helps to distinguish between three major periods. The first began with the original 2015 game and its two historic expansions. After Hearts of Stone, CD PROJEKT RED extended the adventure with The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine, which notably added the Toussaint region.

The second stage was the December 2022 Next-Gen update, numbered 4.0. It provided a new technical foundation for the PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series versions.

The third is the new cycle launched in 2026: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered, available since September 29, followed by Songs of the Past, expected in 2027.

Date	Version or event	What to remember
2015	Original release	Starting point for CD PROJEKT RED's RPG.
2015-2016	Historic expansions	Hearts of Stone, followed by Blood and Wine, extended Geralt's adventure.
December 14, 2022	Next-Gen Update 4.0	Ray tracing, console modes, quality-of-life features, cross-progression and additional content.
2023	Patches 4.01 to 4.04	Stability, performance and gameplay fixes, plus closer alignment with the Switch version.
May 30, 2025	Cross-platform mods announced	mod.io support planned for PC, PS5 and Xbox Series, ultimately integrated with the Remastered edition.
May 27, 2026	Songs of the Past announced	Third expansion, co-developed with Fool's Theory and planned for 2027.
September 29, 2026	The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered	New version available on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S and Switch 2, with a free upgrade for eligible owners.

To broaden this context beyond CD PROJEKT RED, our analysis of The Blood of Dawnwalker looks at another major dark-fantasy RPG developed by Rebel Wolves.

The Next-Gen 4.0 update: 2022's major turning point

Version 4.0 remains a major turning point in The Witcher 3's technical history. It introduced global illumination and ambient occlusion ray tracing, graphics modes adapted to current-generation consoles, improved textures, several integrated community mods, a photo mode, an alternative camera positioned closer to Geralt and cross-progression.

On PC, it also introduced Ultra+ settings and support for modern technologies such as FSR 2.1 and DLSS, depending on the hardware.

The Next-Gen update therefore did more than increase the game's resolution. It provided the foundation for the modernization now continued with the Remastered edition.

Patches 4.01, 4.02, 4.03 and 4.04

The Next-Gen update's launch was followed by several important patches.

Patch 4.01 focused in particular on stability, performance and certain ray-tracing issues. Version 4.02 continued the correction work on PC and consoles. Patch 4.03 added Intel XeSS along with several gameplay adjustments, while 4.04, released in July 2023, introduced numerous fixes and brought the Nintendo Switch version closer to the other 4.x versions.

These updates formed the foundation on which CD PROJEKT RED and its partners later developed the 2026 Remastered edition.

The Witcher 3 Remastered: release, free upgrade and new features

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered has been available since September 29, 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2.

On PC, eligible owners of the GOG, Steam or Epic Games Store versions can receive the upgrade. The game is also now available on Battle.net. On Xbox, the Remastered edition is offered through the Microsoft Store with Xbox Play Anywhere support.

The release arrives during a busy period that we are also tracking in our calendar of September 2026 video game releases.

Another major change is that Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine are now included in the base game. Players who previously owned only the main game therefore also receive both historic expansions at no extra cost.

On PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, these two expansions also remain freely accessible as dedicated downloads, but these older consoles do not receive the Remastered edition or the upcoming Songs of the Past.

What the Remastered edition changes visually

The graphical changes are now documented in greater detail. CD PROJEKT RED says it has added an improved shading model, reworked several textures and models, improved vegetation lighting and shadows, and modernized various visual effects, including those of the Signs.

Several textures and models also use elements from the renowned The Witcher 3 HD Reworked Project. The integration of this community work is therefore no longer merely information reported by its creator: it is part of the changes officially detailed for the Remastered edition.

Path Tracing on PC

On PC, the Remastered edition also adds Path Tracing, alongside the other rendering and ray-tracing improvements.

This option targets the most powerful graphics configurations and should not be confused with the minimum settings simply required to launch the game.

PS5 Pro: ray tracing at 60 FPS and Performance mode up to 90 FPS

CD PROJEKT RED has also planned specific support for the PlayStation 5 Pro.

The studio says that PSSR technology makes it possible to target 60 frames per second with ray tracing enabled. A Performance mode can reach up to 90 frames per second with VRR, depending on display conditions.

Combat, animations and progression: more than a graphical facelift

The Remastered edition is not limited to graphics. CD PROJEKT RED has also revised several systems directly connected to gameplay.

• redesigned and rebalanced skill tree;
• reworked combat animations;
• new finishers;
• adaptive camera during combat;
• new animations for Geralt and Roach;
• improved movement and traversal;
• refreshed interface;
• gear transmog;
• expanded photo mode;
• reworked monster behavior.

The result is therefore closer to a general modernization of the experience than to a simple texture pack.

Do existing saves work?

Yes. CD PROJEKT RED confirms that existing saves remain compatible with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered.

However, because several systems have been redesigned, Geralt's skills and certain settings are reset. Skill points can be reassigned immediately.

Achievements and trophies remain shared with the current versions of the game: those already unlocked do not need to be earned a second time.

Which version of The Witcher 3 Remastered is available on each platform?

Platform	Remastered	Free upgrade	Songs of the Past	Key point
PC	Yes	Yes on eligible storefronts	Yes, in 2027	Path Tracing, cross-platform mods, new Windows 11 / DX12 / SSD requirements.
PlayStation 5	Yes	Yes	Yes, in 2027	Cross-platform mods and dedicated PS5 Pro support.
Xbox Series X|S	Yes	Yes	Yes, in 2027	Cross-platform mods and Xbox Play Anywhere for eligible versions.
Nintendo Switch 2	Yes, native version	Yes for eligible Switch owners	Yes, in 2027	Gyroscope, motion controls, mouse and touchscreen.
PS4 / Xbox One / original Switch	No	No for the Remastered edition	No	The game and its two historic expansions remain available in their current versions.

Minimum PC requirements for the Remastered edition

The new official minimum requirements are as follows:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 2600 or Intel Core i5-8400;
• Graphics card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT 8 GB;
• VRAM: 6 GB minimum;
• RAM: 12 GB;
• Storage: 70 GB on an SSD;
• Operating system: 64-bit Windows 11;
• Graphics API: DirectX 12.

Windows 10 and mechanical hard drives are therefore no longer part of the officially supported configuration for this new phase of the game.

How large is The Witcher 3 Remastered?

The sizes reported around launch are approximately 45 GB on Steam PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. On PC, the figure may vary depending on the languages installed.

The native Nintendo Switch 2 version is listed at around 50 GB.

This download size should not be confused with the 70 GB of SSD storage required by the minimum PC configuration.

Cross-platform mods: now integrated into the Remastered edition

Support for cross-platform mods, initially announced for 2025 and then delayed to 2026, is now part of the Remastered edition.

On PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, the ecosystem is powered by mod.io. Mods continue to be created on PC, notably with REDkit, while console players can download compatible creations offered through the system.

These mods can modify or add:

• quests;
• weapons and equipment;
• balance changes;
• visual elements;
• other compatible community content.

A mod.io account linked to a CD PROJEKT RED account is required to access the system.

Important caveat: the documents covering the mod.io system explicitly mention PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Until CD PROJEKT RED details equivalent functionality for Nintendo Switch 2, it is best not to claim that the same options are available on that platform.

Songs of the Past: The Witcher 3's third DLC

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Songs of the Past will be The Witcher 3's third major expansion, following Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine.

Announced in May 2026 and later presented in greater detail during Gamescom, which we cover in our Gamescom 2026 guide, the expansion is planned for 2027.

It is co-developed by CD PROJEKT RED and Fool's Theory.

Geralt sets out again for Letten, Jaskier's homeland. This new region is described as a rural, idyllic territory deeply attached to its traditions, but a darker secret lies behind its peaceful appearance.

What CD PROJEKT RED has already shown of Songs of the Past

Official information mentions:

• a completely new region;
• new quests;
• new characters;
• secrets to uncover;
• the return of old characters;
• new enemies;
• new abilities;
• a new chain-type weapon.

The studio has not yet announced the expansion's price, length or exact release date.

What is confirmed for Songs of the Past

• Third expansion for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.
• Planned for release in 2027.
• Paid expansion.
• PC via GOG, Steam, Epic Games Store and Battle.net.
• PlayStation 5.
• Xbox Series X|S.
• Nintendo Switch 2.
• Geralt of Rivia is once again the main playable character.
• New region: Letten, Jaskier's homeland.
• Co-developed by CD PROJEKT RED and Fool's Theory.
• New quests, characters, enemies, abilities and chain-type weapon.

What remains unknown as of September 30, 2026

• exact release date in 2027;
• price;
• any commercial editions;
• exact length;
• recommended level;
• narrative requirements;
• final performance on each platform.

Should you replay The Witcher 3 before Songs of the Past?

For anyone discovering The Witcher 3 today, the simplest order remains the main game, followed by Hearts of Stone and then Blood and Wine.

The Remastered edition is now the most modern version on compatible platforms, bringing together both historic expansions with new graphical, gameplay and progression improvements.

For players who already have an advanced save, it remains compatible. You will simply need to reassign skills after switching to the Remastered edition because of the new skill-tree structure.

Regarding Songs of the Past, CD PROJEKT RED has still not detailed the narrative requirements or recommended level. It is therefore best not to claim that players will need to complete Blood and Wine or any particular quest before official confirmation.

Geralt's return also comes as CD PROJEKT RED prepares the saga's next generation with The Witcher 4, centered on Ciri.

The Witcher 3 Remastered and Songs of the Past FAQ

Has The Witcher 3 Remastered been released?

Yes. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered has been available since September 29, 2026, on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2.

Is The Witcher 3 Remastered free?

Yes, for eligible owners. The upgrade is offered free of charge to owners of the game on the relevant platforms.

Are Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine now free?

Yes. Both historic expansions are now included in the base game. Players who did not previously own them can access them at no extra cost.

Is The Witcher 3 Remastered coming to PS4 and Xbox One?

No. The Remastered edition is limited to current-generation platforms and PC. The older versions remain available, and their owners can still access Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine for free.

What happens to the Nintendo Switch version?

The original Nintendo Switch keeps its existing version. Eligible owners of that version can claim the native Remastered edition for free on Nintendo Switch 2.

Can you keep your save in the Remastered edition?

Yes. Saves remain compatible and cross-progression continues to work. Skills and certain settings are nevertheless reset to accommodate the new systems.

Are achievements and trophies reset?

No. The Remastered edition shares achievements and trophies with the current versions. Those already earned remain unlocked.

Does The Witcher 3 Remastered have Path Tracing?

Yes, on PC. CD PROJEKT RED has added Path Tracing to the Remastered edition for compatible configurations.

Are mods available on consoles?

Yes, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S through the mod.io-based cross-platform system. Mods are created on PC and can then be offered on other platforms when they meet compatibility requirements.

When is Songs of the Past releasing?

Songs of the Past is planned for 2027. As of September 30, 2026, CD PROJEKT RED has not announced a specific day or month.

Will Songs of the Past be free?

No. CD PROJEKT RED describes Songs of the Past as a paid expansion. Its price has not yet been announced.

Which platforms will Songs of the Past release on?

The expansion is announced for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2. On PC, CD PROJEKT RED lists GOG, Steam, Epic Games Store and Battle.net.

Where does Songs of the Past take place?

The expansion takes place in Letten, Jaskier's homeland, described as a rural and seemingly idyllic region hiding a darker secret.

Is Geralt the hero of Songs of the Past?

Yes. Geralt of Rivia takes to the Path again and remains the playable character in this new adventure.

Official sources and verification method

The information on this page is checked primarily against CD PROJEKT RED, TheWitcher.com and official support documentation. Details about Songs of the Past that have not yet been communicated are deliberately left unknown rather than inferred from rumors.

• CD PROJEKT RED — announcement of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered
• TheWitcher.com — official The Witcher 3 page
• TheWitcher.com — introduction to Songs of the Past and Letten
• CD PROJEKT RED Press Center — Songs of the Past announcement
• CD PROJEKT RED — Remastered edition on Nintendo Switch 2
• CDPR Support — Remastered saves, achievements and trophies
• CDPR Support — Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine included in the base game
• CDPR Support — PS4 and Xbox One versions
• CDPR Support — minimum PC requirements
• TheWitcher.com — Next-Gen 4.0 update
• TheWitcher.com — patch 4.04
• TheWitcher.com — cross-platform mod support
• PC Games — download sizes reported around launch
• CD PROJEKT RED Press Center — Letten, Jaskier's homeland

Game.fr method: article updated after the release of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Remastered. The Remastered edition's final features are distinguished from information that remains unknown about Songs of the Past. Platform, save, expansion, PC configuration and modding information was cross-checked against CD PROJEKT RED's official documentation. Last verified: September 30, 2026.