The Witcher 3's huge free 2024 update is going to drag me right back in

I really dislike describing video games as addictive. I think it feeds into a harmful narrative that gaming is an unhealthy hobby. When was the last time you heard somebody say their child was "addicted" to football?

Even so, if there was one video game I would admit I might have a slight problem staying away from, it would be The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

Reader, I am obsessed. If I see it on sale, I buy it. I have put over 500 into the game across PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One X, and PlayStation 5.

I've played it through more times than any human should play one video game. And yet, I fear 2024 is going to drag me kicking and screaming (with delight) back to The Witcher 3.

For those who might not be aware, 2024 will see CD Projekt RED add official mod support to The Witcher 3 as part of a huge free update.

There are already plenty of really good mods for the game floating around, but official support from CD Projekt RED will make so much more possible.

Look at the modding scene for a game like Skyrim, and you begin to get the idea. New quests, weapons, expansion-sized mods, and so much more.

"We're thrilled to announce that we're working on a mod editor for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," CDPR wrote on Twitter at the time. "It will allow you to create your own experiences in the game by making something completely new or editing existing quests and content. We’re planning on releasing it for free in 2024."

I can't stress how simultaneously terrified and exhilarated I am by this news. I have way too many games to catch up as it is, but I also know that I will drop everything the moment I feel the urge to dive back into The Witcher 3. This is definitely one update I'll be keeping my eye on. And god help me when it finally drops.