How Much is the Next-Gen Update for The Witcher 3?

The next-gen update for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is absolutely free for anyone who already owns any version of the game on PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series S|X. That’s right – CD Projekt Red generously gifted players a visually stunning and functionally enhanced version of their masterpiece at no extra cost. This update arrived on December 14, 2022, and included not only graphical improvements but also new content inspired by the Netflix series “The Witcher.”

Diving Deeper: What Does the Free Next-Gen Update Include?

It’s tempting to think of it as just a fresh coat of paint, but the next-gen update is so much more. It’s a comprehensive overhaul designed to take full advantage of the power of current-generation consoles and PCs. Here’s what you can expect:

• Visual Overhaul: Expect massively improved graphics, textures, and environmental detail. The world of The Witcher 3 has never looked so immersive.
• Performance Boost: Enjoy smoother gameplay with a consistent 60FPS on consoles and even higher framerates on capable PCs.
• Ray Tracing: On PC and in Quality Mode on PS5 and Xbox Series X, the update includes Ray Traced Global Illumination, dramatically enhancing lighting and shadows for a truly cinematic experience.
• Netflix-Inspired Content: Dive into a new quest and acquire new armor inspired by the popular Netflix adaptation of “The Witcher.”
• Gameplay Improvements: Experience quality-of-life enhancements that make the game more enjoyable and accessible than ever before.
• Mod Integration: While the update may have initially broken some mods, CD Projekt Red has worked to integrate popular options directly into the game, ensuring a more seamless modding experience.

Why This Free Update Matters

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was already considered a landmark achievement in RPG gaming. The free next-gen update solidified its place as a timeless classic. This generous move by CD Projekt Red demonstrated a commitment to their fans and ensured that The Witcher 3 remains a benchmark for open-world games for years to come. It’s a clear message that quality and player experience are valued above all else.

Addressing Early Issues

Upon release, the update wasn’t without its problems. Some players encountered performance issues like stuttering, frame rate drops, and texture rendering problems. CD Projekt Red was quick to acknowledge these issues and released subsequent patches (like 4.01 and beyond) to address them. While some minor bugs might still exist, the overall experience has been significantly improved, making the next-gen update a worthwhile upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here’s a breakdown of common questions to help you understand everything about The Witcher 3’s next-gen update:

1. How do I actually get the next-gen update?

If you own The Witcher 3 on PC, PS5, or Xbox Series S|X, the update should be available for download through your respective platform’s digital store (Steam, GOG, PlayStation Store, or Microsoft Store). For disc copies on PlayStation 5, you’ll need the disc inserted to verify ownership and download the updated version.

2. Do I need to own the expansions to get the free update?

No. The base game is sufficient to get the free next-gen update. However, the update doesn’t include the Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine expansions. You’ll need to purchase those separately if you want to experience their content.

3. I have the game on PS4/Xbox One. Can I upgrade to the PS5/Xbox Series X|S version for free?

Yes, as long as you stay within the same console family (PlayStation or Xbox). On PlayStation, insert your PS4 disc into your PS5, navigate to the game hub, and select the upgrade offer. The steps will be similar on Xbox.

4. Does the Nintendo Switch version get the next-gen update?

In a way, yes! A patch was released for the Nintendo Switch version that incorporates many of the features from version 4.0, also known as the next-gen update, bringing graphical and gameplay enhancements to the portable version.

5. What if I’m playing on PC? What are the graphical options like?

PC players get the most comprehensive visual upgrades, with options to push their GPUs to the limit. The update adds even more graphical settings, including ray tracing options and higher texture resolutions.

6. I heard the update broke my mods. Is this true?

Initially, yes. The update significantly changed the game’s code, causing compatibility issues with many existing mods. However, modders have been working to update their creations, and CD Projekt Red has even integrated some popular mods directly into the game.

7. How big is the next-gen update download?

The download size varies depending on the platform, but it’s generally around 40-50 GB. The GOG version, for example, is approximately 47.6 GB.

8. Is “Quality Mode” or “Performance Mode” better on consoles?

That depends on your preference. Quality Mode prioritizes graphical fidelity, aiming for a higher resolution and enabling features like ray tracing. Performance Mode targets a smoother 60FPS experience, which can be preferable for gameplay. Experiment to see which mode you prefer.

9. My game’s region doesn’t match my account’s region. Can I still get the update?

Unfortunately, no. To claim the free next-gen update, your game’s region code must match the region of your PlayStation or Xbox account.

10. Is the Netflix content any good?

The Netflix-inspired content is a welcome addition, offering a new quest and armor set that fans of the show will appreciate. While it’s not a major expansion, it’s a fun bonus.

11. Is ray tracing worth it?

Ray tracing significantly enhances the visuals of The Witcher 3, especially the lighting and shadows. However, it comes at a performance cost. On PC, you’ll need a powerful GPU to run ray tracing smoothly. On consoles, ray tracing is only available in Quality Mode, which may sacrifice framerate.

12. I’m still experiencing performance issues after updating. What should I do?

Ensure your drivers are up to date (especially on PC). Try adjusting the graphics settings in the game. Lowering the resolution, disabling ray tracing, and reducing texture quality can all improve performance.

13. Where can I find community resources and support for The Witcher 3?

The Witcher community is vibrant and active. Check out forums like Reddit’s r/witcher3, Nexus Mods for modding resources, and the official CD Projekt Red forums for support.

14. Is the next-gen update considered version 4.0 of The Witcher 3?

Yes, the next-gen update is often referred to as version 4.0. This is the version number that denotes the significant changes and improvements included in the update.

15. How does understanding games like The Witcher 3 relate to broader learning principles?

Games like The Witcher 3 offer rich environments for problem-solving, critical thinking, and narrative engagement. The complex storylines and strategic gameplay elements encourage players to develop skills applicable in various real-world scenarios. Organizations such as the Games Learning Society study these interactions to better understand the pedagogical value of gaming. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the intersection of games and education.

The Final Verdict

The free next-gen update for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a must-have for any fan of the game or RPGs in general. It offers a visually stunning and functionally enhanced experience that elevates an already legendary title to new heights. Despite some initial hiccups, CD Projekt Red has continued to refine and improve the update, making it the definitive way to experience The Witcher 3. Don’t miss out on this free upgrade – dive back into the world of Geralt of Rivia and rediscover why The Witcher 3 is considered one of the greatest games of all time.