The Witcher 3 Remastered graphics comparison: New look divides fans

The remaster of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (PS5 version currently around $80 on Amazon) is finally here, bringing improvements to animations, combat, abilities, controls and mod support, among other things. For many players, however, the new graphics are likely to be the biggest difference. Although the game already received a next-gen update in 2022, it is still around 10 years old – and it shows. The revamped version changes that. For anyone still unsure whether the remaster is worth another journey with Geralt through the world of The Witcher, here's a closer look at the graphical differences.

Just how different the new look is from the previous version can be seen in a widely discussed Reddit thread comparing two shots of the same landscape in the rugged island region of Skellige.

Community reactions are divided

The much stronger lighting, more detailed vegetation and surfaces and more pronounced reflections are particularly noticeable. The sense of depth also looks visibly different. Many fans like the changes – but certainly not everyone. Some find the remaster too bright, too contrast-heavy or almost plasticky and glossy in places, preferring the more restrained visuals of the previous version. The comparison isn't entirely conclusive, however, as the lighting conditions and position of the sun don't appear to match exactly. Reactions are similar in another Reddit thread featuring a short gameplay clip without a direct comparison.

Opinions are also clearly divided under the latest clip, which, incidentally, is also set in Skellige. While many praise the more detailed look overall, others take issue with the brighter, sometimes washed-out presentation. “Nah I don’t like it I’m not gonna lie. It feels washed out. Art style is so much more important than graphics,” writes u/MylzieV – a sentiment that has received plenty of support. Whether the new look is an upgrade or a downgrade therefore remains a matter of personal preference. Opinions are welcome in the comments section below.

Incidentally, anyone who wants to experience The Witcher from the very beginning can currently pick up the first game on Steam for just around $1.