Patch Notes #26 - weekly gaming digest

Welcome to the 26th edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.

This edition will cover the week from 02 June to 08 June.

What caught my attention this week

NINTENDO SWITCH 2 IS OUT.

That’s it.

Biggest news of the week

A James Bond game from the developer of Hitman has a new title, 007 First Light, with an official reveal this week. IGN

IO Interactive’s long-awaited James Bond game, originally announced as Project 007, now has an official title: 007 First Light. After more than five years since its initial reveal, the game is finally set for a full unveiling this week. A teaser image shared on social media shows Bond in silhouette with the tagline “#EarnTheNumber,” suggesting the game will explore Bond’s origin story and how he earned the iconic 007 status. 007 First Light is an entirely original narrative, not based on any existing Bond films, and is expected to launch on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch 2. IOI hopes it will mark the beginning of a new trilogy, though the Hitman series remains on pause during development.

Elden Ring Nightreign patch 1.01.1 is now available with solo expedition improvements and more. RPG Site

FromSoftware and Bandai Namco have released patch 1.01.1 for Elden Ring: Nightreign, just days after the game's launch and its announcement of over 2 million units sold. The update brings notable improvements for solo expeditions, including a new "Automatic Revival Upon Defeat" feature usable once per night boss battle, and increased rune rewards. Additionally, the drop rate for high-rarity relics during Expeditions has been boosted, and several balance changes and bug fixes have been implemented. These include corrections to skill behaviours, enemy interactions, visual glitches, and performance issues across platforms. The update is required for online play, and further patches are planned.

Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time sales top 800,000. Gematsu

Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time has sold over 800,000 units within 10 days of its release, with publisher LEVEL-5 expecting it to surpass one million sales in June. Released on May 21 for multiple platforms—including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Switch, and PC—the game quickly sold 500,000 copies in just two days. Praised for strong digital sales and topping charts in Japan and internationally, the slow-life RPG lets players switch between 14 unique jobs and explore a mysterious island across a 1,000-year timeline, restoring the world and uncovering hidden secrets.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance | Combat Trailer. Shinobi602 Twitter

Hi-Fi Rush dev Tango Gameworks 'remains dedicated to distinctive and new IPs,' as it starts hiring for new action games. IGN

Hi-Fi Rush developer Tango Gameworks has relaunched with a new website and confirmed it’s working on an unannounced action game. Now under PUBG publisher Krafton—who acquired the studio and the Hi-Fi Rush IP from Microsoft last year—Tango emphasises its commitment to creating distinctive new intellectual properties with a “hand-made” feel. The studio is actively hiring for various roles, especially for developers experienced in 3D action games using Unreal Engine 5, though details about the new project remain under wraps. Fans speculate it could be a sequel to Hi-Fi Rush, but Tango isn’t ready to reveal more yet.

Stunning The Witcher 4 Unreal Engine 5 tech demo shows open-world running on base PS5 at 60fps - with ray tracing. IGN

At the State of Unreal 2025 event, Epic Games and CD Projekt unveiled a visually impressive Unreal Engine 5 tech demo showcasing The Witcher 4's potential. Though not actual gameplay, the demo followed Ciri through the new region of Kovir—confirmed as a playable area—highlighting features like ray tracing, fast world loading, and 300 individually animated NPCs, all running at 60fps on a base PS5. The presentation demonstrated the engine’s new capabilities, including Nanite Foliage and ML Deformer effects, giving fans a glimpse of the game’s future while confirming its release won’t happen until at least 2027.

Here’s how GameShare works between Switch 2 and the original Switch. GameSpot

Nintendo has detailed how GameShare will work between the new Switch 2 and the original Switch consoles ahead of the Switch 2 launch. GameShare lets a Switch 2 owner share compatible first-party games with others either locally or online. Recipients don’t need to own or download the game—they simply join via the GameChat icon on their home screen. While local wireless sharing works between Switch 2 and original Switch systems, online GameShare requires both players to have a Switch 2. Unlike simple streaming, each player experiences the game from their own perspective, such as seeing only their own cards in a multiplayer game. Compatible games include Super Mario Odyssey, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, and others, with some titles supporting unique multiplayer features.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet Switch 2 patch is out now, as Nintendo reveals the first footage of the upgrade. VG Chronicles

Nintendo has released a patch for Pokémon Scarlet & Violet that enhances the game’s visuals and performance on the new Nintendo Switch 2, ahead of the console’s launch this week. The update boosts the game to run at 60 frames per second with higher resolution, addressing earlier criticisms about frame rate issues and graphical shortcomings since the game’s original 2022 release on Switch. Nintendo also shared new footage showcasing these improvements on the Nintendo Today app. Additionally, the next Pokémon title, Pokémon Legends Z-A, is set to launch on both Switch and Switch 2 this October, with an upgrade pack available for those moving to the Switch 2 Edition.

Nintendo Switch 2 updates for Mario, Zelda, Pokémon Switch games now live, including unavailable Super Mario 3D All-Stars — here are all the patch notes. IGN

Nintendo has released updates for several major Switch titles ahead of the Switch 2 launch, including Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Breath of the Wild, Pikmin 3 Deluxe, and Super Mario Wonder. These free updates enhance compatibility with the new hardware, improve performance, and introduce new features, such as support for Brazilian Portuguese in Zelda titles and amiibo functionality. Notably, Super Mario 3D All-Stars, previously unavailable for purchase, has received an update, sparking speculation about its possible return to sale. While Nintendo remains vague on full patch details, fans are encouraged to download updates early to avoid server congestion.

Wizards of the Coast teams with Giant Skull on 'epic' single-player Dungeons & Dragons game. Game Developer

Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) has announced a new exclusive partnership with Giant Skull, a studio founded by former Respawn developer Stig Asmussen, to create a single-player Dungeons & Dragons action-adventure game. This marks WOTC’s next major step in expanding the D&D gaming universe after parting ways with Larian Studios, the developer behind the hugely successful Baldur’s Gate 3. While Larian will no longer be involved in future entries or DLC, WOTC continues to build on the success of BG3, which sold over 15 million copies and generated significant profits. The upcoming project aims to deliver a deeply immersive, story-driven experience, though expectations remain high given the legacy of its predecessor.

New Marvel fighting game is coming from Arc System Works, Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. GameSpot

Arc System Works, the studio known for fighting games like BlazBlue and Dragon Ball FighterZ, is teaming up with Marvel and Sony to develop a new anime-styled 4v4 fighting game titled Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, slated for release in 2026. The game aims to be accessible to a wider audience by allowing players to master just one character and use either traditional or simplified controls. Characters confirmed so far include Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man, and others, chosen to reflect Marvel's most iconic heroes while offering a variety of play styles.

Astro Bot updated to add five new ‘Vicious Void Galaxy’ levels on July 10. Gematsu

Sony Interactive Entertainment and Team Asobi have announced a free update for ASTRO BOT, set to launch on July 10, 2025, adding five new levels under the "Vicious Void Galaxy" theme. The levels include “Twin-Frog Trouble,” “Suck It Up,” “Handhold Havoc,” “High Inflation,” and one secret stage. Each will feature unique Special Bots, with hints of a mysterious new character joining the adventure. Completing all levels may unlock an extra surprise. Additionally, an updated Limited Edition DualSense controller with a new touch pad design is also on the way later this year. ASTRO BOT is currently available on PlayStation 5.

Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection is a classic fighting bundle with new features coming later this year. IGN

Digital Eclipse has announced Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, a compilation of classic Mortal Kombat titles set to release in 2025 across multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and both generations of Nintendo Switch. Revealed during the June 2025 PlayStation State of Play, the collection includes fan-favorite entries like Mortal Kombat 1–4, Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, and several Game Boy Advance titles, with more games yet to be revealed. Featuring online multiplayer with rollback netcode, behind-the-scenes content, developer interviews, and rare concept art, the bundle is also presented as an interactive documentary that explores the franchise's cultural impact.

Final Fantasy Tactics remaster announced. VG Chronicles

Square Enix has officially announced a remaster of Final Fantasy Tactics titled Final Fantasy: The Ivalice Chronicles, launching on September 30, 2025. Revealed during the June PlayStation State of Play, the game will include both an enhanced version and the classic version. The enhanced edition features voiced dialogue, updated UI, graphical improvements, quality-of-life features, and a new beginner-friendly “Squire” difficulty. The classic version stays true to the original 1997 release, while incorporating auto-save and the acclaimed War of the Lions translation. This long-rumored remaster marks the first console re-release of the game in years.

Almost exactly 5 years after it was announced, Capcom's astronaut action game Pragmata finally has a release date: 'It's real'. PCGamer

After years of silence and delays, Capcom's sci-fi action game Pragmata finally has a release window—2026. First revealed in 2020 as a next-gen title for PlayStation 5, the game resurfaced during the latest State of Play with a new trailer confirming it's still in development and also coming to Steam. Pragmata stars astronaut Hugh and android girl Diana, who rides on his shoulder and uses hacking abilities during combat. Capcom describes it as a "science fiction action adventure with a unique hacking twist," and ended the trailer with a cheeky reassurance: "It's real xD."

Lumines Arise announced for PS5, PS VR2, and PC. Gematsu

Lumines Arise, announced for PlayStation 5, PS VR2, and PC, is a vibrant reinvention of the classic rhythm puzzle game series from the creators of Tetris Effect: Connected. Launching this fall, the game features over 30 stages with diverse, immersive environments—from jungles to Tokyo streets—combined with a dynamic soundtrack and stunning visuals synced to gameplay. It introduces a new Burst mechanic that allows players to lock and build large combos for big points, plus extensive avatar customization, multiplayer modes, and optional VR support for an engaging and deeply immersive experience.

The Free Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Switch 2 update also includes new features for Switch players. GameSpot

The free version 1.1.0 update for The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom launched June 3, 2025, and is available on both the original Switch and Switch 2. It adds a handy new feature allowing players to display only their favorite echoes once they’ve collected over 30, making item and enemy selection easier. The update also brings optimized visuals and HDR support for Switch 2, aiming to improve performance and fix frame-rate issues. Nintendo continues to support original Switch owners while preparing paid Switch 2 Edition upgrades for some games, such as Breath of the Wild ($10) and Kirby and the Forgotten Land ($20). The Switch 2 console launches June 5, 2025.

Get your first look at the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop. VG Chronicles

The Nintendo Switch 2 has launched in some regions ahead of its worldwide release on June 5, 2025, with a required day-one update now live. Early hands-on previews reveal a revamped system OS and a new eShop, alongside improved submenus like the capture gallery. The console will debut with 28 games, including Switch 2 exclusives, upgraded editions of existing titles, ports from PlayStation and Xbox, and GameCube re-releases. Additionally, 12 original Switch games will receive free updates to enhance their performance on the new hardware, offering compelling reasons for Switch owners to revisit their back catalogues. Notably, games like Mario Kart World and the updated Pokémon Scarlet & Violet showcase significant improvements on the new system.

A free Switch 2 Edition upgrade for No Man’s Sky is available. VG Chronicles

No Man’s Sky has received a free Switch 2 Edition upgrade for existing Switch owners, offering major improvements such as higher resolution, increased frame rates, denser textures, multiplayer, cross-save, gyro controls, and touch screen support. The update also includes the new Beacon update, which overhauls settlements—something not possible on the original Switch. Unlike most paid Switch 2 upgrades, this one is free, making it a great value, especially with the game currently on sale in some regions. Originally released in 2016 to mixed reviews, No Man’s Sky has since transformed through continuous free updates into a much-improved experience

Ubisoft Forward is not coming this summer, the company says. GameSpot

Ubisoft has announced it will not hold its annual Ubisoft Forward showcase this summer, marking the first time since 2020 that the company skips this event. Instead, Ubisoft plans to participate in other industry events like Summer Game Fest and the PC Gaming Show. This decision comes amid delays to several major upcoming games, with new content from its biggest franchises expected to release during the 2026-2027 financial year. Facing a challenging 2025, Ubisoft has made significant organizational changes, including creating a new subsidiary for key franchises backed by a $1.25 billion investment from Tencent, as well as layoffs and studio closures.

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement announced for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. Gematsu

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement is the newly announced sequel to Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, coming to PS5, Xbox Series, and PC in 2026. Set in a richly detailed 16th-century gothic England, the game follows two heroes, Leonard and Alexander, as they confront the demonic forces of the Ethereal Castle ruled by Demon Lord Elias. Featuring a sprawling 2.5D map with dynamic day-night cycles, the game emphasizes strategic combat with a new “buddy system” allowing players to control both characters simultaneously. Players will explore the castle’s dangerous halls, craft items, customize gear, and battle powerful vampire bosses called Sanguinaries. Developed by ArtPlay and produced by the original creative team, the game promises deep exploration, engaging storytelling, and enhanced gameplay mechanics that expand on the Bloodstained universe.

Digimon Story: Time Stranger global release date confirmed for October 3. RPG Site

Digimon Story: Time Stranger will launch globally on October 3, 2025, with a day-earlier release in Japan on October 2, confirmed by Bandai Namco during the June 2025 State of Play. This turn-based RPG lets players travel across time and parallel worlds and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam. The game features Japanese voice acting from notable actors and offers multiple editions: Standard and Collector’s Editions (physical), as well as Deluxe and Ultimate Editions with extra costumes, season passes, and early unlocks for special Digimon like Agumon and Gabumon. Pre-orders include bonus content such as alternate Digimon skins and uniforms.

Silent Hill f will be "more action-oriented" than Silent Hill 2 remake, coming September. EuroGamer

Silent Hill f is set to release on September 25, 2025, and will feature a more action-oriented combat style compared to the Silent Hill 2 remake. Players control Shimizu Hinako, a high schooler in 1960s Japan, as she navigates her fog-covered hometown that shifts into a nightmarish version of itself. The game blends puzzle-solving rooted in psychological anguish with challenging combat reflecting Hinako’s personal struggles. Players’ choices will influence Hinako’s fate, balancing themes of beauty, madness, and survival. Pre-orders are now available.

PS5 showcase surprise ‘Romeo is a Dead Man’ is Suda 51’s ‘bloodiest action game yet’. VG Chronicles

Grasshopper Manufacture and creator Goichi Suda (Suda 51) have announced their next action game, Romeo is a Dead Man, set to release in 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. Touted as the studio’s “bloodiest action game yet,” the game features protagonist Romeo Stargazer, who shifts between guns and swords while using enemies’ powers, jumping between the real world and subspace. Romeo, saved from death by a time paradox, now works as an FBI Space-Time agent hunting fugitives across multiple universes. The game promises intense action, mind-bending twists, and bold, unapologetic storytelling true to Suda’s style.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles - here's what comes in each edition. IGN

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is a remastered tactical RPG releasing on September 30, 2025, for multiple platforms including PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This new edition includes both the original classic game and an enhanced version featuring updated graphics, a new user interface, improved voice acting, additional difficulty levels, faster battle speeds, and a tactical overview mode, offering a modernized experience while preserving the beloved strategic gameplay of the original.

Day of the Devs 2025 - everything announced in the big indie showcase. EuroGamer

The 2025 Day of the Devs indie showcase delivered a packed hour of fresh and imaginative games from renowned indie studios. Returning developers behind hits like Untitled Goose Game, Abzu, and Guacamelee introduced brand-new titles that span a range of genres and styles. From the stylish heist game Snap & Grab and the co-op adventure Big Walk, to Sword of the Sea, a surreal hoverboarding journey through a ruined necropolis, the event was brimming with creativity. Other standout announcements included Mixtape, a coming-of-age story powered by iconic music; Blighted, a dark psychedelic Metroidvania; and Marvel Cosmic Invasion, a retro beat-‘em-up featuring 15 heroes. With everything from horror-infused farming (Neverway) to culturally rooted heists (Relooted), and data-driven mini-games (Pocket Boss), Day of the Devs underscored the diversity and depth of the indie gaming scene heading into 2026.

Resident Evil 9 officially revealed at Summer Game Fest 2025. IGN

Capcom officially revealed Resident Evil 9, titled Resident Evil Requiem, at Summer Game Fest 2025. Scheduled for release on February 27, 2026, the game is a single-player survival horror experience launching on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Described as a bold evolution in both tone and gameplay, the game introduces cinematic action alongside traditional horror elements. The trailer hints at a destroyed Raccoon City, possible open-world design, and a new protagonist—FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft—who confronts personal trauma while investigating mysterious deaths. Capcom promises an immersive story powered by advanced technology and rich character development.

The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin – Summer Game Fest 2025 trailer. Gematsu

The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin is a free-to-play open-world action RPG set to launch in 2025 on PlayStation 5, PC, iOS, and Android. Developed by Netmarble F&C, the game is based on the popular anime and manga series and features an original story where players control Prince Tristan of Liones. Tasked with restoring order to Britannia after a mysterious time-space collision, players explore a richly detailed world, build a team of unique heroes—including fan favorites and new characters—and engage in combat, exploration, and leisure activities like fishing and cooking.

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers - official gameplay trailer | Summer Game Fest 2025. IGN

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a soulslike action RPG from Leenzee Games set in the war-torn land of Shu during the late Ming Dynasty, featuring monstrous creatures and a dark storyline. It’s coming to PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S on July 24, 2025.

Code Vein 2 revealed at Summer Game Fest, headed to PS5, Xbox, and Steam in 2026. EuroGamer

Code Vein 2, the sequel to the vampire-themed gothic soulslike game, was revealed at Summer Game Fest and is set to release in 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Steam. The announcement trailer showcased cinematic story elements and gameplay featuring the protagonist battling various bosses using a mix of elemental, physical, and vampiric attacks. The original Code Vein gained a strong following for its unique twist on the soulslike genre with its dark vampire aesthetic and third-person action gameplay.

Genshin version 5.7 release date and details. IGN

Genshin Impact's Version 5.7 is set to release on June 18, 2025, introducing major new content including two new characters, Skirk and Dahlia, each with unique Cryo and Hydro abilities. The update also brings new story quests, such as Crystallina Chapter: Act I and a new Archon quest featuring Dainsleif. A variety of events like Battle of Imagined Arrays, Fearsome Ferocious Firepower, and Stygian Onslaught offer gameplay variety and rewards, including a new character Sethos and consumables like the Dust of Enlightenment for artifact upgrades. Additionally, several system optimizations are introduced, improving quest resource management, Spiral Abyss features, and game storage customization.

Guacamelee dev goes 3D with co-op action game Blighted. GameSpot

At Summer Game Fest 2025, Drinkbox Studios—the creators of Guacamelee and Nobody Saves The World—announced their leap into 3D with Blighted, a co-op action game blending metroidvania and RPG elements. Featuring an isometric perspective reminiscent of Hades, Blighted is set in a “psychedelic Western nightmare” where players harness the power of the Blight, which acts as a dynamic difficulty system and unlocks new paths throughout the world. The game supports both solo and cooperative play and is slated for release in 2026 on PC and consoles.

Acts of Blood - official gameplay trailer | Summer Game Fest 2025. IGN

At Summer Game Fest 2025, Acts of Blood was showcased with an official gameplay trailer. This third-person beat ’em up action game centres on fast-paced, brutal hand-to-hand combat set against the backdrop of a dystopian Bandung, Indonesia. Players can expect intense melee action as they navigate the gritty urban environment.

Out of Words is a charming and colourful co-op stop-motion adventure. GameSpot

Out of Words is a charming co-op side-scrolling action-adventure announced at Summer Game Fest by Epic Games Publishing. Featuring characters who have lost their voices, players must work together to navigate the colourful, stop-motion animated world of Vokabulantis. The game emphasises teamwork and communication through puzzles involving mechanics like gravity shifting and grappling, with both online and local co-op play supported. Developed from an original concept by Danish poet Morten Søndergaard, Out of Words is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via the Epic Games Store, with a release date yet to be announced.

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's Project Century gets a strange new title. GameSpot

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s Project Century has been renamed Stranger Than Heaven and revealed with new trailers at Summer Game Fest. The game is set in Japan during the early 20th century, with the latest trailer placing the action around 1943, during World War II. Players follow the protagonist Daito through a richly detailed world showcasing the country’s modernisation and international influences, with intense, bloody combat and a possible choice-based morality system. The story hints at complex themes of identity, as Daito’s Western heritage becomes a point of intrigue. No release date or platforms were announced, but the game is expected to be available on current-gen consoles and PC.

Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver announced at Summer Game Fest. IGN

At this year’s Summer Game Fest, Brass Lion Entertainment announced Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver, a cooperative action RPG featuring up to four players teaming up to battle the titular Deceiver and defend Shaolin. The game blends Afro-surrealism with anime aesthetics and features a soundtrack that combines classic Wu-Tang tracks with new music by DJ Just Blaze.

Xenoblade studio reveals it co-developed Switch 2’s big launch game. VG Chronicles

Monolith Soft, the studio behind the Xenoblade Chronicles series, has revealed that it co-developed Mario Kart World, a major launch title for the new Nintendo Switch 2. In a post on X, Monolith confirmed its role in designing characters and courses for the game. Known for supporting other major Nintendo titles like Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon, the studio has now added Mario Kart World to its list of collaborations. Originally intended for the Nintendo Switch, development of the game shifted to Switch 2 in 2020 due to hardware limitations, which forced compromises in graphics and performance.

A Resonance: Plague Tale Legacy accidentally leaks online. EuroGamer

A new entry in the A Plague Tale series, titled Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy, has been unintentionally leaked online. The teaser appeared briefly on Focus Entertainment’s Threads account before being swiftly deleted—though not before a copy was saved and shared on Reddit. The short 15-second teaser doesn’t reveal much, but it hints that the game may be a prequel focused on the character Sophia. Slated for release in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series consoles, the game might be officially unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase. The leak has stirred excitement among fans eager to revisit the plague-ridden world crafted by Asobo Studio.

R-Type Delta: HD Boosted - official trailer | IGN Live 2025. IGN

The official trailer for R-Type Delta: HD Boosted offers a fresh look at gameplay and features from the upcoming entry in the classic side-scrolling shoot-'em-up series. Scheduled for release in 2025, the game will be available across multiple platforms including Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Xbox Series X/S, promising fans both nostalgia and enhanced visuals.

Mads Mikkelsen is reprising his Casino Royale role to become Hitman’s next elusive target. PCGamer

Mads Mikkelsen is reprising his iconic Casino Royale role as LeChiffre in Hitman’s latest elusive target mission, now live for players. Announced at Summer Game Fest, this special contract casts Mikkelsen as “The Banker,” set on a revamped casino-themed version of the Paris map from Hitman (2016). The collaboration even includes custom poker mechanics tailored for the mission. Mikkelsen joined IO Interactive on stage, expressing his excitement to return to the beloved character, even if it means facing a deadly encounter with Agent 47’s Silverballers. Fans can jump in immediately to take on this unique assassination challenge.

The next Tales of series remaster will be announced this Summer. RPG Site

Bandai Namco Entertainment announced that the next Tales of series remaster will be revealed this summer. While they haven’t specified which game will be remastered, fans are hoping for titles like Tales of the Abyss or the Xillia duology. Previous remasters in the series have had mixed reception, with Tales of Graces of Remastered receiving praise, especially compared to the less well-received Tales of Symphonia Remastered.

State of Play June 2025: all announcements, trailers. Playstation Blog

Sony’s June 2025 State of Play delivered a packed lineup of reveals, trailers, and updates for upcoming PlayStation titles. Highlights included the surprise announcement of MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, a flashy tag-team fighter from Arc System Works and Marvel Games; 007 First Light, a James Bond origin story from IO Interactive; and Nioh 3, which features dual combat styles and a playable demo available now. Fans of tactical RPGs rejoiced at the return of Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles, arriving September 30 with new features, while Konami showcased more of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, including the return of the quirky Snake vs Monkey mode. Other notable debuts included Romeo is a Dead Man, a time-bending action game by Grasshopper Manufacture, and the oceanic RPG Sea of Remnants, where players captain a ship and explore a punk-inspired world. Platformers and sims had strong showings too, with Hirogami, Baby Steps (Sept 8), Cairn (Nov 5), and the mythic surfing game Sword of the Sea, launching August 19 via PlayStation Plus. Legacy titles got fresh love with the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, and the stealth classic Thief was reimagined for PS VR2. Additional trailers included updates for Digimon Story: Time Stranger (Oct 3), Silent Hill f (Sept 25), and Lumines Arise, now featuring PS VR2 support. Lastly, Sony teased its first official wireless fight stick, Project Defiant, due next year, while PlayStation Plus will soon welcome classics like Deus Ex (PS2), Twisted Metal 3 & 4, and Resident Evil 2 & 3.

GTA VI: planning around hyped game launches on live streaming. Stream Hatchet

When a major title like GTA VI looms, game publishers typically shift their strategies to avoid clashing with its inevitable media and player attention, especially on live-streaming platforms. With GTA V already the most-watched game on Twitch for years, GTA VI is expected to dominate even more, potentially capturing over 10% of total live-streaming viewership. Past examples like Diablo IV, Elden Ring, and Monster Hunter Wilds show that similar genre games often suffer steep drops in viewership during such major launches. While some titles, like Path of Exile, have successfully rebounded post-hype, most others are steamrolled, particularly static single-player games. For streamers, however, these launches are a goldmine, driving massive follower growth and exposure, especially for creators who specialise in the hyped game's genre. As a result, influencer attention is harder to capture for competing releases. The safest strategy is often to avoid the launch window entirely, or smartly release just before or after it to ride the hype wave, as Baldur’s Gate 3 did around Starfield. Competing directly is usually risky and rarely successful, as seen with the infamous Alan Wake vs. Red Dead Redemption clash. Ultimately, GTA VI’s release is likely to monopolise streaming and gaming conversations for at least 6–8 weeks—publishers must either adapt, wait, or find creative ways to capitalise on the moment.

Biggest releases this week