The Witcher 3 leaves Game Pass, free remaster in 2026

In brief
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt leaves Xbox Game Pass on August 31, 2026, but gets a free remaster on September 29, 2026.
Briefly
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt leaves Xbox Game Pass on August 31, 2026.
- The game’s remaster launches on September 29, 2026, and is free for existing owners.
- The game has been back on Xbox Game Pass since February 2026.
GAME-scanner analysis
The announcement that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is leaving Xbox Game Pass has major implications for gamers who have not yet played it. With a run of 193 days on Game Pass during this period, it is clear that many players have had the chance to discover Geralt of Rivia’s story. The remaster, arriving on September 29, 2026, offers an excellent opportunity for both new and returning players to experience the game in an improved version. This appears to be a strategic move by CD Projekt Red to keep interest in the franchise alive, especially with The Witcher 4 in development.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers who have not yet had the chance to play The Witcher 3, it is important to know they have until August 31, 2026 to play it through Xbox Game Pass. After that date, they will need to buy the game or wait for the remaster, which offers an enhanced experience. The free upgrade for existing owners is a welcome surprise and shows CD Projekt Red’s commitment to its player base, which could strengthen loyalty.
Timeline
Mid-February 2026: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt returns to Xbox Game Pass.
August 31, 2026: The game leaves Xbox Game Pass.
September 29, 2026: The remaster of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is released.
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