This update targets the newest generation of systems for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, bringing the game to version 4.02. According to CD PROJEKT RED, the patch focuses on performance improvements across all platforms where the beloved fantasy RPG is available, ensuring a smoother and more stable experience for players who return to the White Wolf’s adventures.
Improvements for all platforms
Initial notes from the developer highlight significant CPU core usage optimizations for DirectX 12 on PC. In addition, the update fixes bugs and flickering issues related to reward unlocking in Toussaint when Nvidia HairWorks is disabled. Memory management receives a boost by enabling ray tracing on consoles, accompanied by fixes for crashes and problems encountered during rapid saves. The result is a more consistent, responsive world where players can explore the vast landscapes and encounter fewer interruptions during quests and exploration.
Advanced visual effects
The team emphasizes improvements to water visuals across all platforms, with enhanced realism when ray tracing is active. A new area in the options panel allows players to dial in the intensity of motion blur in the game’s cinematic sequences, giving fans greater control over how action and movement feel. Stability updates accompany these visuals, preventing some mission progress issues and ensuring smoother transitions between scenes and encounters.
An illustration from The Witcher 3 is included to showcase the refined aesthetics of the latest release.
Mission fixes
The next-gen version was released as a free update in December 2022, taking full advantage of current hardware capabilities. Visual and performance enhancements include real-time ray tracing on PC, plus Performance and Ray Tracing options for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, with Performance and Quality settings on Xbox Series S. DLSS support is present on PC, and all features work in concert with AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution. On top of technical improvements, the edition adds content inspired by the corresponding television series, such as weapons and armor for Geralt, alternate skins for Dandelion and Nilfgaardian gear, and a themed quest to enrich the narrative experience for players.