Witcher 3 Fans Express Discontent Over New Remastered Footage

Next week, a major update for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered is set to drop, giving a fresh look to the beloved 2015 RPG. Given that the game has been around for over a decade, it’s understandable that an update might be necessary to keep it feeling fresh for players in 2026. However, early reactions to a new clip from the remaster suggest that fans might not be as thrilled as expected.

The official Witcher X account recently shared a side-by-side comparison of the remaster and the original game. In an 11-second clip, we see Geralt using the Igni sign to unleash fire on a Drowner in a marshy setting, with water reflecting the flames. While the intention was to showcase the enhanced graphics and effects, the response from fans has been largely negative. One comment bluntly asked, “Why does the remastered version look worse?”

This sentiment seems to resonate with many viewers. One user remarked, “Old one looks so much better!” while another sarcastically questioned if the before-and-after images were swapped, noting that the original appeared superior. Fans have pointed out that the original game’s handling of reflections and color is more appealing. One user noted, “The color and fire stands out more and looks more alive” in the 2015 version, highlighting a more vibrant orange hue and dynamic flame reflections in the water. This reaction underscores just how impressive the original game still looks after all these years.

But the remaster isn’t just about visuals. It will also feature improved animations, revamped combat mechanics, enhanced movement and mount controls, and adjusted enemy behaviors. The skill tree has received a significant overhaul as well. Additionally, the remaster will support cross-platform mods and introduce several accessibility features. Best of all, this major update will be free for anyone who owns the original game, with all previously released expansions also available at no extra cost.

The remaster’s launch is timed with the upcoming expansion, Songs of the Past, which is set to release next year. This paid expansion, developed by CD Projekt Red in collaboration with Fool’s Theory, the team behind the ongoing Witcher remake, is expected to be as substantial as the Blood and Wine expansion, promising plenty of new content to explore.

Interestingly, the modder responsible for one of The Witcher 3’s most significant visual overhauls is now collaborating directly with CD Projekt Red.