CD Projekt Red (CDPR) announced a major free remaster update for The Witcher 3, set for release on September 29, 2026, for all existing owners worldwide [1, 2]. The update delivers extensive gameplay and technical improvements, including a revamped combat system, redesigned skill trees, optimized horse controls, armor transmog options, and an expanded photo mode to enhance player experience [3, 2].
CDPR emphasized that the remaster will be provided as a large patch to current PS5 owners rather than as a new installation or a separate product. It will not add a new trophy list to preserve tracking consistency [4]. Additionally, all old save files and achievements remain fully compatible, so players can continue without restarting their progress [5].
Senior game designer Paweł Sasko described the remaster as almost a "Witcher 3 2.0," tackling longstanding complaints about gameplay mechanics such as movement, combat interactions, and the absence of finishers, delivering a smoother experience [3]. CDPR CEO Michał Nowakowski stated, "We from the start never considered charging players for the Witcher 3 remaster. We see it as a gift to players who already own the game" [1].
Alongside the remaster, CDPR plans to release a substantial new story DLC expansion titled "旧时曲" (Old Times), which requires players to have fully completed the main Witcher 3 storyline before accessing it [1, 5].
Regarding future platforms, CDPR reaffirmed its commitment to the console market. Nowakowski said, "Consoles are still necessary to broaden the audience on the casual or semi-casual level. It's important to have [something] easy to plug in and enjoy gaming" [6]. If the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S remain mainstream at Witcher 4's launch, CDPR intends to support them fully, adding, "We'll find a business model that works for us and players" [7].
CDPR plans to develop Witcher 4 using Unreal Engine 5, moving away from its proprietary REDengine to speed up development and improve output. Yet Nowakowski stressed the game will retain its unique CDPR identity: "We really can make Witcher 4 stand out. It will still feel like a CDPR game, not just another UE5 game" [8].
PlayStation will end physical disc production starting January 2028, which will affect physical releases, including Witcher 4. CDPR said it will still offer physical boxed editions with digital codes and collectibles to satisfy collectors and fans who prefer tangible formats [6, 7].
The Witcher 3 remaster releases on September 29, 2026. PlayStation's physical disc production will cease in January 2028, shortly before Witcher 4's expected launch window that year [2, 6, 7, 8].
