An official comparison video showcasing side-by-side gameplay from the original The Witcher 3 and its upcoming remaster has prompted discussion among fans, with some expressing concern that the updated visuals appear to be a downgrade in certain aspects.
Visual Differences Highlighted
The comparison footage features Geralt using the Igni sign against drowners in a swamp setting. While the remaster introduces enhanced detail on Geralt's armor and more defined water textures, the implementation of reflections has become a point of contention.
Choose your cast - wisely. #TheWitcher3Remastered pic.twitter.com/zcgLSvLvDi— The Witcher (@thewitcher) September 23, 2026
Reflections and Fog Effects
The original game displayed fire reflections, albeit as an orange blur, in the swamp's murky water. Surprisingly, the remaster's clip, despite featuring ray tracing, appears to lack any fire reflection. Furthermore, the fog effects differ significantly; the original presented distinct fog clouds near the ground, while the remaster opts for a more atmospheric, distant fog.
Community Feedback
Many of the visual discrepancies stem from the remaster's incorporation of ray tracing, a feature absent in the original. Fan reactions to the comparison have been varied. One social media user, LeafusMaximus, criticized the remaster for seemingly worse water reflections, fog effects, and even some armor textures, suggesting the new drowners look merely 'wetter' compared to the original's 'scaly/mucky' appearance. Another user, desugar_64, humorously questioned if the footage had been swapped.
Player Options and Release
For PC players who might prefer the original visuals, there's an option to revert to an earlier build. While console options are uncertain, disabling automatic updates can prevent the change. Players planning to upgrade to the remaster can transfer their existing save data upon its release on September 29.
