Witcher 3 Next-Gen Update 4.0: Graphics, Performance Issues and More

The “Next-Gen” update has arrived for The Witcher 3, CD Projekt RED’s golden goose. At this point, we’re multiple years into the current generation, but the colloquialism serves its purpose. This update changes The Witcher 3 in tons of ways, regardless of what platform you’re on. Yes, that even means the Nintendo Switch version is getting some of this stuff. Not the ray tracing, obviously. Anyway, here’s everything you need to know about this new coat of paint for The Witcher 3.

For now, we only have patch notes for the PC version and PS5/Xbox Series versions. For the older platforms, a separate patch is coming that will come with its own set of notes. So we’ll go over some of this stuff (the official website patch notes are technically incomplete, comprising “highlights” instead of everything.

PC Only Updates

• Ray traced reflections and shadows
• New “Ultra+” graphics preset
• DLSS 3 Support

“Next-Gen” Only Updates

• Enhanced visuals
• Ray Tracing Mode; dynamic resolution scaling and 30 FPS target for PS5/XSX
• Performance Mode; dynamic resolution scaling and 60 FPS target for PS5/XSX
• Series S has its own Quality and Performance mode settings
• DualSense features support, Activity Cards

Both

• Changes made either implementing community mods, based on community mods or said mods with additional tweaking
• Upscaled 4K character textures
• Main characters cast high-res self-shadowing outside of cutscenes
• Hair and armor clipping issues addressed
• Various environmental improvements
• FSR 2.1
• Cutscene pause added
• Photo mode
• New closer, dynamic camera option

New Content

• In The Eternal Fire’s Shadow sidequest added, located in Velen. Unlocks rewards based on the Netflix series
• Alternate appearance options for Dandelion and Nilfgaardian Armor based on the Netflix series
• Chinese and Korean VO
• Changes and improvements for Russian VO

Gameplay Changes

• New combat balancing based on community mod
• Several bugfixes for various quests
• Quick Sign Casting option
• Adjusted fall damage
• UI customization options
• Accessibility options such as font size, sprint controls, etc

There’s plenty more Witcher 3 content on Prima Games, so check it out with the game’s tag.