CD Projekt RED unveiled a reveal trailer for The Witcher III: Wild Hunt Remastered during Gamescom 2026 in Cologne, Germany [1, 2].
This update marks a significant technical overhaul for one of the most influential role-playing games of the last decade. By offering the remaster as a free upgrade, the developer aims to modernize the experience for its existing player base while attracting new users ahead of future content releases.
The game is scheduled to launch on Sept. 29, 2026 [3]. It will be available across a wide array of platforms, including GOG, Steam, the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and the Nintendo Switch 2 [4].
According to the reveal, the remaster introduces substantial enhancements to visuals, combat mechanics, and monster AI [2, 5]. The package includes the base game along with the Hearts of Stone, and Blood and Wine expansions [2]. Existing owners of the original game will receive the upgrade at no cost [4, 5].
The announcement took place during the Opening Night Live event on Aug. 25, 2026 [3]. This event served as the kickoff for the broader Gamescom exhibition, which runs from Aug. 26 to Aug. 28, 2026 [3].
CD Projekt RED said the remaster was developed to update the game's core systems and promote the upcoming Songs of the Past expansion [5]. This strategy allows the studio to revitalize interest in the franchise by leveraging the technical capabilities of current-generation hardware, particularly the newly mentioned Nintendo Switch 2 [4].
“The remastered title arrives September 29 as a free upgrade for existing owners.”
This move suggests CD Projekt RED is utilizing a 'legacy update' strategy to maintain franchise momentum. By bundling the remaster with a free upgrade and tying it to the promotion of the Songs of the Past expansion, the studio is expanding its active user base without charging a premium for aged content. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Nintendo Switch 2 indicates a strategic push into new hardware ecosystems to maximize the game's reach.
