The Witcher 3 Remastered draws mixed reactions after gameplay comparison

The Witcher 3 Remastered gameplay comparison has drawn mixed reactions, as fans point out atmosphere differences

CD Projekt Red has shared a new gameplay comparison between The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and its upcoming remaster, prompting mixed reactions from players who compared the two versions.

The side-by-side footage, shared on X on September 23, shows Geralt using the Igni sign against Drowners in Crookback Bog. Some players questioned whether the remastered version represented an improvement over the original.

“Why does it look worse?” one of the top replies asked, while another user wrote, “Are you sure you didn’t swap the footage around?” Other responses similarly said they preferred the original footage.

Players highlighted differences in the fire effects, colours and lighting. Some argued that the fire in the remastered footage does not illuminate its surroundings or reflect in the water in the same way as the original. Others criticised what they described as more muted colours and the absence of fog.

However, the fog difference is partly explained by the footage itself. A Foglet is present in the original comparison but not in the remastered version, creating a different appearance between the two scenes.

Choose your cast - wisely. #TheWitcher3Remastered pic.twitter.com/zcgLSvLvDi

— The Witcher (@thewitcher) September 23, 2026

Reactions on the The Witcher 3 subreddit were more varied, with some players preferring the remastered fire effects while describing the comparison as a “strange comparison”.

The footage also carries a disclaimer stating, “Work in progress – does not represent the final look of the game.” This means the visuals shown may differ from those in the finished remaster.

The Witcher 3 Remastered is scheduled to arrive as a free upgrade on September 29. It will introduce overhauled combat, a new skill system and upgraded visuals and performance.

The remaster will also lead into the Songs of the Past expansion, planned for 2027. The expansion is set in Dandelion’s homeland and is intended to connect Wild Hunt with The Witcher 4.