The Witcher 3 Remastered Switch 2 version is a native build for the new console, and it is a free upgrade for anyone who owns The Witcher 3 on the original Nintendo Switch. It adds four ways to play, mouse controls through the Joy-Con 2, motion and gyro controls, touch screen menus, HD Rumble, HDR and VRR in handheld mode. Everything else in the Witcher 3 Remastered patch notes, from the new skill tree to Reforge, comes to Switch 2 as well.
How to get the Witcher 3 Remastered Switch 2 upgrade
If you own the original Switch version, claim the Switch 2 version from the Nintendo eShop at no cost. Screen Rant reports that owners of the physical Switch release can claim it too. If you do not own the game on Switch, the Switch 2 version is a full purchase. The Witcher 3 Remastered free upgrade guide covers every other platform, and your saves carry over with skill points reset.
Four playstyles on Switch 2
- Handheld.
- Pro Controller.
- Dual Grip, with motion controls.
- Mouse Sensor, using a Joy-Con 2 as a mouse.
Motion, mouse and gyro controls
- Motion controls come in two modes, Always Enabled and Horse Only. They cover your main and second consumable, calling Roach, casting Signs, the crossbow, throwing bombs, and making the horse gallop or stop.
- Mouse sensor comes in two modes, Always Enabled and Dynamic, with three control schemes: Comfort, Dynamic and Default.
- Gyro aiming works in Handheld, Pro Controller and Dual Grip, set to Always Enabled or Ranged Weapons only.
- Touch screen works in menus, dialogue, the world map, Gwent and photo mode.
- A motion controls tutorial can be replayed from the main menu or the pause menu.
Display: HDR, VRR and HD Rumble
- HD Rumble on the Joy-Con 2 gives more varied vibration.
- VRR in handheld mode smooths frame pacing on the built-in screen.
- HDR support.
The official notes give no resolution or frame rate targets for Switch 2. For mode-by-mode numbers on Sony's consoles, see the Witcher 3 Remastered PS5 guide.
Best Switch 2 control setup
Gyro aiming set to Ranged Weapons keeps the camera steady in normal play and adds fine aim for the crossbow and bombs. Motion controls on Horse Only are a light way to try them, since they then only cover riding. Players who like a mouse on PC can try the Mouse Sensor playstyle at a desk.
For short handheld sessions, the Bard's Ballad preset removes weight limits, repairs and boat damage, so less of each session goes to inventory chores.
Witcher 3 Remastered Switch 2 FAQ
Is Witcher 3 Remastered free on Switch 2?
Yes, if you own The Witcher 3 on the original Switch. Otherwise you buy the Switch 2 version.
Does Witcher 3 Remastered on Switch 2 have mouse controls?
Yes. The Mouse Sensor playstyle uses a Joy-Con 2 as a mouse, with three control schemes.
Can I use mods on Switch 2?
Yes. The in-game mod.io browser works on Switch 2 as on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.