The Witcher 3 Remastered on Switch 2: Enhanced Resolution and FPS

Performance Concerns on Nintendo Switch 2

Digital Foundry reported that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Remastered on the Nintendo Switch 2 struggles to maintain a stable 40fps mode, recommending players opt for 30fps instead. The analysis highlighted dynamic resolutions—540p–1080p in TV mode and 360p–720p in handheld mode—with DLSS enabled. However, frame rates drop frequently in complex scenes, and lower resolutions affect visual depth and reflections during cinematics.

Performance Varies by Frame Rate and Display Hz

The game’s 40fps mode functions reliably only in less demanding open areas, while 30fps provides smoother performance across the board. Players using 120Hz displays can reach 40fps, but those on 60Hz screens are capped at 30fps.

Critics Give Mixed Reactions to Graphical Updates

The Witcher 3: Remastered introduced Path Tracing and DLSS 4.5, but reviews from [Estadão] noted mixed reactions. While some praised the enhanced lighting and visuals, others argued the improvements fell short of expectations. A comparison between the Remastered version and the 2022 Next-Gen release revealed subtle differences in terrain detail and shadow depth, though not universally impactful.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered has a full menu for graphics settings, divided into regular presets: Low, Medium, High, and Ultra. Users can manually set “Ultra+” in certain options, adding an extra layer of graphical weight. The RT Ultra preset enables Path Tracing, though some players found the feature did not meet expectations, with some preferring the 2022 Ray Tracing implementation. A comparison between the Remastered and Next-Gen versions showed deeper tree canopies, more detailed castle structures, and geological irregularities in the terrain, though differences were subtle.

Updates Lag on Nintendo Switch 2

[Estadão] and [Eurogamer.pt] reported that CD Projekt Red has rolled out graphical fixes for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC, including adjustments to bloom, saturation, and interior lighting. However, the Nintendo Switch 2 version has not received these updates, leaving players with unresolved issues like overly bright scenes and dimly lit environments. A hotfix on October 1 refined Velen’s visuals, but broader patches remain pending.

Free Upgrade Accessibility on Switch 2

[Omelete] revealed a workaround allowing players to access the Remastered version without a physical cartridge. By using any Switch physical copy, users can download the free upgrade, after which the cartridge can be removed. This method applies to all versions, including second-hand copies, and does not require the original cartridge to remain inserted.

The method has no usage limits and can be used repeatedly by multiple people. A single physical copy can be shared among users to unlock the Remastered version, with the cartridge removable after download.

Content Improvements and Future Plans

The Remastered version includes enhanced combat mechanics, a revised skill tree, and expanded photo mode. [Omelete] also noted that the update precedes the 2027 expansion Songs of the Past, which will be a paid DLC. The free upgrade covers the first two expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, as part of the base package.

DLSS 4.5 and Industry Partnerships

[NVIDIA’s] DLSS 4.5 update, released September 29, 2026, brought improved ray tracing and performance boosts for The Witcher 3: Remastered on PC. The technology, developed in collaboration with CD Projekt Red, aims to enhance visual fidelity while maintaining frame rates. Similar updates are expected for other titles like Ace Combat 8 and Gears of War: E-Day.

NVIDIA confirmed support for DLSS 4.5 in titles like Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, which launched with DLSS 4.5 Super Resolution and DLAA. Other games, such as Gears of War: E-Day, Hot Wheels Infinite Rush, and Silent Hill: Townfall, also benefit from DLSS acceleration.

Technical Challenges and Player Feedback

[Eurogamer.pt] also noted ongoing complaints about excessive brightness and HDR-related visual issues, which remain unresolved on Switch 2.

Why Is 30fps Recommended over 40fps on Switch 2?

Why is 30fps recommended over 40fps on Switch 2?

Digital Foundry found that 40fps frequently drops in complex scenes, while 30fps offers a more stable experience.

What does the DLSS 4.5 update add to The Witcher 3?

DLSS 4.5 enhances visual fidelity through improved ray tracing and performance optimization, available on PC via NVIDIA’s update.

How can Switch 2 players access the Remastered version for free?

Players can use any physical Switch cartridge to unlock the free upgrade, after which the cartridge can be removed. This method works for all versions, including second-hand copies.

Path Tracing Feature Originated from Cyberpunk 2077

The Remastered version’s Path Tracing feature was originally developed for Cyberpunk 2077, showcasing CD Projekt Red’s long-term collaboration with NVIDIA.