The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is due to receive a novel physical release later this month to mark the arrival of its next-gen patch. The long-awaited upgrade for The Witcher 3 on new consoles will be packaged alongside the past seven years of content released for the seminal open-world title.
The consensus from both critics and fans alike is that CD Projekt Red outdid itself with the recent next-gen update to The Witcher 3. Not only did the expected improvements to frame rate and graphical fidelity made it look like an entirely different game, further additions such as a new camera angle and alternative method for casting Signs offer so much even when replaying the title. Up until this point, the next-gen refinements have only been available digitally, but it seems that CD Projekt Red is set to change this soon.
Insider Gaming noted that a leak from the online platform Ultima had been spotted by PPE.pl which detailed that a "physical, boxed version of the next-gen upgrade will launch on the 26th January." Initial reporting stated that all 16 individual DLCs, both paid expansions, and everything that came as part of the next-gen update would be included in this physical edition, "at a price point of £29.99/$34.99." Titled the Complete Edition, Insider Gaming stated that it will "be launching with extra content... an exclusive compendium, stickers, and a map."
An update to the article was made shortly after a statement was provided by CD Projekt Red, confirming that it is "planning a physical release... for late January." Available for both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, there is no mention if those on PC will be able to pick up the boxed version. CD Projekt Red clarifies that "the box will contain only the aforementioned disc," suggesting that the additional goodies will in fact not be featured.
For those interested in a physical release of The Witcher 3, this will soon be the best option, but many are likely to have already purchased digital versions due to recent discounts. Holiday deals saw The Witcher 3 reduced in price by up to 80%, deals that have since ended, bringing the expense back up to match the reported cost for the upcoming physical edition. Fortunately, those who acquire the boxed version are likely to have a smoother experience than others who played at launch, as several patches have since arrived for The Witcher 3 that ironed out many of the technical issues players were reporting once the next-gen update went live.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
Source: Insider Gaming