Patch Notes #21 - weekly gaming digest
Welcome to the 21st edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.
This edition will cover the week from 28 April to May 04 .
What caught my attention this week
No fees on web transactions. Game over for the Apple Tax. Tim Sweeney
Apple's 15–30% commission on digital transactions—often criticized as the "Apple Tax"—is now effectively dead in the U.S., echoing its demise in Europe under the Digital Markets Act. The announcement marks a major shift in the digital economy, eliminating platform fees for web-based transactions and signaling the end of Apple’s long-standing App Store commission structure. This change comes after 4 years, 4 months, and 17 days of legal and regulatory battles.
Biggest news of the week
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 publisher says The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remastered shadow-drop actually benefited the game by drawing attention to ‘quality RPGs that week’. IGN
Despite concerns that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered’s surprise release might overshadow Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Kepler Interactive says the opposite happened—Oblivion’s launch actually boosted attention for RPGS that week and benefited Clair Obscur. According to Kepler’s senior portfolio manager Matt Handrahan, the two games appealed to different audiences, and Clair Obscur had its momentum, identity, and Game Pass placement. The game sold over 1 million copies in just three days, earning praise even from French President Macron. Data showed 35% of Clair Obscur players also tried Oblivion Remastered, mainly due to both being on Game Pass.
The French president calls Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 a "shining example of French audacity". EuroGamer
French President Emmanuel Macron praised Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as a "shining example of French audacity and creativity" after the RPG sold 1 million copies within three days of release and received critical acclaim. Developed by French studio Sandfall Interactive, the game blends surreal fantasy with humorous French references and was warmly embraced both domestically and internationally. Macron’s praise marks a notable shift in tone after previously criticizing video games in 2023 during civil unrest, later clarifying his support for the medium’s role in France’s culture and economy.
Elden Ring has shipped over 30 million copies worldwide. Wario64 Twitter
Riding on Ne Zha 2’s box office boom, Enlight Media announces plan for AAA games.Technode
Beijing Enlight Media, the studio behind Ne Zha, announced plans to establish a gaming division focused on developing AAA titles, following the massive box office success of Ne Zha 2. The company has been building its gaming capabilities for several months and expects to launch its first AAA game within three years. Enlight Media reported strong financial results for Q1 2025, with revenue reaching RMB 2.975 billion ($410 million), a 177.87% increase year-on-year, and net profit soaring 374.79% to RMB 2.016 billion ($278 million). Ne Zha 2, released on January 29, 2025, has grossed RMB 15.302 billion ($2.11 billion) to date.
Wuthering Waves version 2.3 "Fiery Arpeggio of Summer Reunion" is now available alongside the Steam launch. RPG Site
Kuro Games has released Wuthering Waves version 2.3, titled "Fiery Arpeggio of Summer Reunion," coinciding with the game's launch on Steam, featuring full cross-platform support across PC, mobile, and PS5. The update celebrates the game's first anniversary with a major content expansion, including new companion stories, events, and phantoms, as well as multiple login and gameplay events offering valuable rewards like Astrite, Radiant Tides, and unique phantoms. Highlights include a new story event ("Your Summer Will Never Wither"), a Solaris Film Festival event with branching narratives, special Resonator and Weapon convenes, and a variety of limited-time and permanent challenges. Version 2.3 also introduces enhanced bundles and a revamped Pioneer Podcast progression system. The game continues to offer dynamic action RPG gameplay in a visually rich, post-apocalyptic open world.
Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero set for Nintendo Switch 2, Saudi ratings board suggests. IGN
A now-deleted tweet from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Media Regulation suggests that Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, as it revealed the game had received a 12+ rating for the platform. While there’s been no official confirmation from Bandai Namco or Nintendo, the tweet briefly described the game as featuring 3D battles and choice-driven storylines. Sparking! Zero, a successor to the Budokai Tenkaichi series, is praised for its large roster and nostalgic gameplay, earning a 7/10 from IGN. Meanwhile, Switch 2 pre-orders opened on April 24 at $449.99, with Nintendo cautioning buyers about potential delivery delays due to overwhelming demand.
8BitDo no longer ships to the US from China due to Trump tariffs. Polygon
8BitDo has stopped shipping products from its Chinese warehouse to U.S. customers due to new 145% tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on imports from China and the removal of the de minimis exemption for shipments under $800. This move mirrors similar actions by other gaming hardware companies like Anbernic, as the new trade policies begin to disrupt the video game and tabletop industries. While 8BitDo still offers shipping from its U.S.-based warehouse, customers can only determine product availability after entering their address during checkout.
Switch system update version 20.0.0 now available. Gematsu
Nintendo has released the Switch system update version 20.0.0, introducing major features like Virtual Game Cards and GameShare. Virtual Game Cards allow digital games and DLC to be managed like physical cartridges, enabling users to load/eject them across two systems and lend them within a Nintendo Account family. GameShare lets compatible Switch 2 titles be played via local wireless on nearby systems, though it's exclusive to the Switch 2. Other additions include user verification settings, online license access for cloud-based play, improved save data transfer, and a system transfer option to move data from a Switch to a Switch 2 via local or server-based methods. Minor UI updates include refreshed icon colors and redesigned user icons.
EA cuts around 300 roles, including about 100 at Respawn. IGN
Electronic Arts has laid off around 300 employees across its organization, including approximately 100 at Respawn Entertainment. While Respawn cuts affected staff in development, publishing, QA, and teams working on Apex Legends, Star Wars Jedi, and two now-cancelled incubation projects (one reportedly Titanfall-related), the wider layoffs primarily impacted EA’s Experiences team, which handles customer support and marketing. EA stated the restructuring is part of its long-term strategic priorities and is offering affected employees opportunities to apply for internal roles. These layoffs follow a series of previous cuts at BioWare, Codemasters, and broader EA divisions in recent years.
Returnal ‘PS5 Pro Enhanced’ patch now available. Gematsu
To celebrate Returnal's fourth anniversary, Sony Interactive Entertainment and Housemarque have released a PlayStation 5 Pro enhancement patch. This update allows PS5 Pro users to experience the game with a higher resolution, providing up to 2.5 times the pixels for improved visuals.
Lost Soul Aside has been delayed to August 29, 2025!Genki Twitter
Lost Soul Aside has been delayed to August 29, 2025, giving developers more time to polish the game. The original release date was set for May 30, 2025, just one month away.
Bayonetta developer Platinum games is hiring for a new online action game, even after many long-time staff have departed for other studios. VG247
Platinum Games is hiring for an online action game, despite several key developers leaving the studio. The company recently posted a job listing for a game designer, emphasizing the need for experience with online action games and level design for "open field" games. This new project follows the studio's mixed history with online games, including the failure of Babylon's Fall. While Platinum has been successful with single-player titles like Bayonetta 3 and Astral Chain, its financial struggles have pushed it toward pursuing online action games. The studio is currently working on Ninja Gaiden 4, and while the new game is still in early stages, it signals that Platinum is exploring new directions.
Arc Raiders is already one of the most polished and immediately satisfying extraction shooters, and it’s not even out yet. VG247
Arc Raiders, developed by Embark Studios (founded by ex-DICE and Battlefield developers), is shaping up to be one of the most polished and engaging extraction shooters—even before its full release. Originally envisioned as a co-op experience, the game has since pivoted, which may disappoint some early fans. However, those who can move past that will find a well-crafted game with smart, accessible mechanics that don’t rely on deep knowledge of modern firearms. Despite extraction shooters falling out of favor for some, Arc Raiders stands out with satisfying gameplay and thoughtful design that could reignite interest in the genre.
Nintendo has changed its eShop charts in an apparent move to hide shovelware. VG Chronicles
Nintendo has updated its eShop chart system to curb the visibility of shovelware and low-effort "AI slop" games by shifting from a sales volume-based ranking to a revenue-based one calculated over 72 hours. This change aims to prevent ultra-cheap, low-quality games from flooding the charts by exploiting high unit sales at rock-bottom prices. While it should reduce misleading chart manipulation, the new system may also disadvantage indie developers who rely on deep discounts to gain exposure, potentially pushing fewer discounted high-quality titles into visibility.
EA says Codemasters won't be making any more rally games: 'We've reached the end of the road working on WRC'. PCGamer
EA has confirmed that Codemasters will no longer develop rally games, ending a nearly 30-year legacy that began with Colin McRae Rally in 1998 and culminated in EA Sports WRC. The 2024 WRC title will be Codemasters’ last, as EA pauses all future rally game development. While EA Sports WRC will remain available, the FIA announced it is taking the WRC game franchise in a “new and ambitious direction,” with more details to come. This marks another major shift for Codemasters under EA, following the cancellation of the Project Cars series and layoffs in recent years, as the studio now pivots primarily to its F1 franchise.
Update: Just like magic: Randy Pitchford accidentally reveals new Borderlands 4 release date, then immediately deletes because googling time zones is hard. VG247
Borderlands 4 is now set to launch earlier than expected, with its release date moved up from September 23 to September 12, 2025—a change accidentally revealed by Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford in a now-deleted video where he forgot to account for time zones. Pitchford explained the new date was due to development going better than planned, calling the game “awesome” and saying the team is “cooking.” PlayStation later confirmed a 20-minute gameplay deep dive will air on April 30, offering new details. The announcement was originally supposed to coincide with this reveal, but Pitchford’s early post disrupted the timing.
Borderlands 4 – State of Play deep dive and gameplay trailer. Gematsu
A new 20-minute deep dive and gameplay trailer for Borderlands 4 was released during PlayStation's State of Play event on April 30, 2025. The trailer introduced two of the four new Vault Hunters: Vex, a Siren who can empower herself or summon shades to fight, and Rafa, an Exo-Soldier with an experimental exo-suit capable of transforming into various weapons. The game takes place on the planet Kairos, where players battle the Timekeeper and his oppressive forces, including cybernetically controlled soldiers and various factions. The gameplay highlights the new weapon and gear systems, with features like the Licensed Parts system, Ordnance slot for heavy weapons, and Rep Kit gear for healing and buffs. Borderlands 4 is designed for cooperative play, with instanced loot and dynamic scaling to support multiplayer. The game is set for release on September 12, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC, with a Switch 2 version planned later in the year.
Sonic Rumble delayed yet again: "This news may be disappointing," Sega says. GameSpot
Sega has announced another indefinite delay for Sonic Rumble, a free-to-play mobile game that was initially scheduled for global release on May 8, 2025. The publisher expressed disappointment about the delay, emphasizing that extra development time is necessary for the game's future. Although some mobile store pages may show a placeholder date, Sega clarified the launch is not imminent. Currently in pre-launch testing, Sonic Rumble will receive an update (1.2) adding a "Rumble Ranking" feature, "Crews" for grouping with friends, and unique abilities called Skills. Sega stated these updates aim to ensure the game evolves and remains enjoyable over time. Originally planned for 2024, the game was delayed to Spring 2025 and will be available on iOS, Android, and PC via Steam when it launches. Additionally, Sonic Racing: Crossworlds is set for release later this year on console and PC.
Assassin's Creed Shadows post-launch roadmap features regular new story missions, parkour updates, New Game Plus. Eurogamer
Ubisoft has revealed Assassin's Creed Shadows' post-launch roadmap, promising regular updates that include new story missions, fan-requested features, and a New Game Plus option. Free content will feature fresh story "drops," new characters, abilities, and backstory impacting the game. The first mission will focus on Portuguese character Luis Frois, and additional updates will include new difficulty settings, parkour options, photo mode enhancements, and special collaborations. A major expansion, Claws of Awaji, will continue the story of Naoe and Yasuke and is slated for later this year. Further updates will also address fan requests, including the ability to remove headgear in cutscenes and improved parkour mechanics.
Sea of Stars' free Throes of the Watchmaker DLC launches on May 20. RPG Site
Sabotage Studio has announced the release of Throes of the Watchmaker, a free post-game DLC for Sea of Stars, launching on May 20. Set in the miniature clockwork world of Horloge, the DLC offers eight hours of new content, with protagonists Zale and Valere adopting new circus-themed classes—acrobat and juggler. They are joined by a new character, Arty, a mechanical Artificer. The adventure focuses on mastering Sun and Moon powers to confront a cursed carnival, featuring new areas, puzzles, enemies, and a unique storyline. The DLC also introduces a new progression loop, classes, and skills, and boasts a cinematic budget comparable to the main game. With contributions from Yasunori Mitsuda, the soundtrack adds an extra layer to the adventure.
Gaming website Polygon sheds staff, editor-in-chief departs following sale to Game Rant owner Valnet. PCGamer
Gaming website Polygon, founded by Vox Media in 2012, has been sold to Canadian digital publisher Valnet, known for owning sites like Game Rant, FextraLife, and TheGamer. Following the acquisition, a significant portion of Polygon's staff has either been laid off or resigned, including co-founder and editor-in-chief Chris Plante. Plante confirmed his departure from Bluesky, noting he had no role in the sale and urging potential employers to consider the displaced editorial talent.
Take-Two boss Strauss Zelnick moves to reassure shareholders as stock falls on GTA 6 delay news. IGN
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick reassured shareholders after the delay of GTA 6, which will now launch in May 2026 instead of fall 2025. The announcement caused a nearly 8% drop in the company’s stock. Zelnick emphasized the company's support for Rockstar's decision to take more time to ensure the game meets its high standards. He reaffirmed Take-Two's expectation of growth in the coming years, despite the delay. The company also has other major releases lined up, including Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country, and NBA 2K26, but GTA 6 remains a key financial driver.
Grand Theft Auto 6 release date has been announced, but the game has been delayed to 2026. VG Chronicles
Grand Theft Auto 6 has been delayed to May 26, 2026, according to Rockstar Games. The game was initially planned for release in Fall 2025, but the developers cited the need for additional time to meet the high expectations of players. In their announcement, Rockstar expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and patience from fans, emphasizing their commitment to delivering a game that exceeds expectations. This delay follows earlier statements from Take-Two, the game's publisher, which had forecasted a 2025 release. The delay could affect other game publishers' release schedules, with some waiting to announce their own dates to avoid competing directly with GTA 6.
Microsoft was the top publisher on the PlayStation Store by pre-orders in Q1 2025. VG Chronicles
In Q1 2025, Microsoft was the top publisher on the PlayStation Store by pre-orders and pre-installs, marking a significant achievement as the company’s games led both the PlayStation and Xbox stores. Microsoft reported a 5% year-on-year increase in gaming revenue, with Xbox content and services growing 8%, thanks to successes like Xbox Game Pass, Call of Duty, and Minecraft. However, Xbox hardware revenue declined by 6%, reflecting the company's shift towards multi-platform availability. CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the company’s focus on expanding its gaming ecosystem, noting record-breaking cloud gaming hours and the growth of PC Game Pass. Notable pre-orders likely included major releases such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Forza Horizon 5, and Doom: The Dark Ages. Additionally, Microsoft plans to integrate AI into gaming with new initiatives like Copilot for Gaming and real-time gameplay generation.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II sales top three million; Kingdom Come: Deliverance tops 10 million. Gematsu
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has reached a new milestone, surpassing three million sales since its release on February 4, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC. This follows a previous report in mid-February that had already surpassed two million units. The original Kingdom Come: Deliverance has also topped 10 million sales. Set in 15th-century Bohemia, the action RPG follows Henry of Skalitz on a journey of revenge, betrayal, and self-discovery during a civil war. The game offers a deep RPG experience with extensive character customization, immersive medieval settings, and authentic first-person combat.
Elden Ring Nightreign overview trailer spotlights what's in store for its impending launch. IGN
Elden Ring: Nightreign, FromSoftware’s upcoming co-op survival action game, received a detailed overview trailer ahead of its May 30, 2025 launch. The game drops players into a constantly shifting version of Limveld, where they must team up to battle enemies, scavenge for items, and build strength before facing the powerful Night lords. With eight unique "Nightfarers" (character classes), each with distinct abilities and playstyles, players will engage in repeated runs to survive the encroaching ring of fire. The trailer also highlights relics that enhance characters, story-revealing "memories," and boss battles that punctuate each in-game day, culminating in a major showdown on day three.
Biggest releases this week
