Patch Notes #30 - weekly gaming digest

Welcome to the 30th edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.

This edition will cover the week from June 30 to July 6.

What caught my attention this week

Another shit week for the industry.

Job losses, studio closures, cancelled games: what we know about Xbox's devastating wave of layoffs. EuroGamer

Microsoft’s latest wave of layoffs has sent shockwaves through the gaming industry, with over 9,000 jobs cut across the company, marking the fourth major round in under two years. The Xbox division was hit especially hard, leading to the cancellation of high-profile projects like Perfect Dark and Everwild, the closure of The Initiative studio, and significant layoffs at Turn 10 Studios, reportedly affecting nearly half its staff. Other casualties include Romero Games’ unannounced shooter, ZeniMax’s MMO codenamed Blackbird, and 200 roles at King. Xbox leadership framed the cuts as a strategic move to streamline operations and focus on high-potential areas, though the timing and scope have drawn criticism. A now-deleted post by an Xbox producer, suggesting that laid-off staff use AI tools for emotional clarity, only added to the backlash, highlighting the tension between corporate messaging and the human cost of these decisions.

TLDR

• ‘I think Xbox hardware is dead’, says Microsoft gaming veteran.

• The Assassin's Creed Black Flag actor says fans ‘may have to beat the game again’ as remake rumors mount.

• Ace Combat series 30th anniversary trailer, message from brand director Kazutoki Kono

• WWE 2K25 coming to Switch 2 on July 23.

• Villain specialist David Dastmalchian is set to play M. Bison in the upcoming live-action Street Fighter movie.

• Nintendo suggests price hikes for consoles and games are coming to Canada, but Switch 2 escapes for now.

• Blackpink Lisa is the new PlayStation ambassador.

• Nintendo confirms the Mario Odyssey team is making Donkey Kong Bananza.

• System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster for PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch launches July 10.

• Krafton to acquire Japanese animation company for $517 million.

• The future of gaming in MENA-3: understanding the opportunity.

• 2K Sports is also teasing a college basketball game, a day after EA Sports did it.

• A new MMO in development at Elder Scrolls Online studio ZeniMax has been cancelled as Microsoft puts thousands more people out of work.

• Sources: Banjo-Kazooie, Sea of Thieves director leaves Rare after 35 years, following Everwild cancellation.

• Perfect Dark reboot cancelled and Xbox developer The Initiative closed as part of devastating Microsoft layoffs.

• Rare's Everwild cancelled following Xbox job cuts.

• Former senior Ubisoft staff convicted in French harassment case, receive fines and suspended sentences.

• Subnautica developer Unknown Worlds loses leadership team.

• Digimon Story: Time Stranger gameplay deep-dive explanation video published.

• Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree – official guardian trailer | Bandai Namco Showcase 2025.

• [Update] Romero Games employee says 'whole studio' subject to layoffs after Microsoft pulls funding for new shooter from Doom co-creator John Romero.

• Xbox boss Phil Spencer isn't retiring, despite rumors otherwise.

• Aniplex, JOYCITY, and Capcom announce Resident Evil: Survival Unit for iOS, Android.

• Xbox producer criticised for suggesting laid-off devs should use AI for ‘career planning and emotional clarity’

• Nintendo finally reveals the developer behind Switch 2 launch title Welcome Tour, which many said should have been included for free.

• Another new Resident Evil game has been announced.

• Surprise Elden Ring Nightreign patch brings a couple of solid bug fixes, and one very useful QOL tweak.

• Pokémon: The First Movie is free to watch on YouTube .

• CD Projekt Red and Studio Trigger announce Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 anime!.

• Destiny: Rising launches August 28.

Biggest news of the week

‘I think Xbox hardware is dead’, says Microsoft gaming veteran. VG Chronicles

Microsoft’s multi-platform push has sparked concern from Xbox veteran Laura Fryer, who believes the company is slowly phasing out traditional console hardware. In a recent video, she criticised the ROG Xbox Ally and other branded partnerships as superficial efforts signalling a retreat from Xbox’s hardware roots, labelling the “Xbox Anywhere” strategy as more style than substance. While Microsoft insists it’s committed to next-gen devices across consoles, handhelds, and cloud, Fryer fears the brand’s identity is being diluted in favor of Game Pass growth and outsourced remakes—raising doubts about its long-term vision as Xbox nears its 25th anniversary.

The Assassin's Creed Black Flag actor says fans ‘may have to beat the game again’ as remake rumors mount. VG Chronicles

Actor Matt Ryan, who portrayed Edward Kenway in Assassin’s Creed Black Flag, has fueled speculation of a remake by teasing fans at a convention that they “may have to beat [the game] again.” Although he stopped short of confirming anything, his comments—paired with previous hints from statue maker Pure Arts and Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot—suggest a modernized version of the fan-favorite title may be in development. Reports from as early as 2023 indicated Ubisoft Singapore is involved in the project, reviving expectations among long-time fans.

Ace Combat series 30th anniversary trailer, message from brand director Kazutoki Kono. Gematsu

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Bandai Namco has released a commemorative trailer for the Ace Combat series and launched a dedicated portal, Aces Web. Brand director Kazutoki Kono shared a heartfelt message, expressing gratitude to fans and reflecting on the franchise’s evolution since its 1995 debut. Emphasising themes of adaptation and ambition, he affirmed the team's commitment to delivering impactful experiences as they prepare for the series’ next chapter. Additionally, a 30th anniversary concert and talk event is scheduled for January 2026, and development of a new Ace Combat game is ongoing in partnership with ILCA under the Bandai Namco Aces label.

WWE 2K25 coming to Switch 2 on July 23. Gematsu

WWE 2K25 is officially set to launch on Switch 2 this July 23, following its earlier release on other platforms. The Switch 2 version will support the full slate of game modes, both offline and online, and introduces exclusive access to “The Island,” a dynamic, explorable hub for player challenges. Three editions—Standard, Deadman, and Bloodline—are offered, each packed with content such as downloadable Superstars, bonus cosmetic items, and themed Persona cards. Highlight features include the new Bloodline-focused Showcase mode, the return of Chain Wrestling, intergender matches, a massive 300+ roster, upgraded Creation Suite, and enhanced MyGM and MyFACTION experiences. Pre-orders are now open, with physical versions shipping as code-in-a-box.

Villain specialist David Dastmalchian is set to play M. Bison in the upcoming live-action Street Fighter movie. IGN

David Dastmalchian, known for his villainous roles in The Dark Knight, The Suicide Squad, and Ant-Man, has been cast as M. Bison in the upcoming live-action Street Fighter movie. This marks his most prominent role yet, portraying the iconic dictator and head of the Shadaloo organization. The film, set to release on March 20, 2026, is shaping up with a star-studded cast including 50 Cent as Balrog, Jason Momoa as Blanka, Noah Centineo as Ken, Roman Reigns as Akuma, Andrew Koji as Ryu, and Callina Liang as Chun-Li. With Legendary at the helm, the film aims to surpass the infamous 1994 adaptation and ride the wave of successful video game movies in recent years.

Nintendo suggests price hikes for consoles and games are coming to Canada, but Switch 2 escapes for now. EuroGamer

Nintendo has announced upcoming price increases for a wide range of Switch products in Canada, citing “market conditions” as the reason. Affected items include the Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite consoles, as well as accessories, physical and digital games, amiibo, and Nintendo Switch Online memberships. These changes are expected to take effect on August 1, with updated pricing to be posted on Nintendo’s Canadian store. Notably, the Switch 2 and its related products are exempt from this adjustment, for now. The move follows trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada, and mirrors similar pricing shifts by Sony and Microsoft in response to global economic pressures.

Blackpink Lisa is the new PlayStation ambassador. Esports.gg

K-pop icon LISA of Blackpink has been unveiled as the new global ambassador for PlayStation, marking a high-profile collaboration between music and gaming. In a promotional video, LISA is seen enjoying titles like Astro Bot, Helldivers 2, and Marathon, signaling her gamer credentials and teasing what’s to come. While PlayStation hasn’t disclosed full details of the partnership yet, fans are already speculating about potential custom hardware, in-game cameos, or exclusive music tie-ins. This move follows LISA’s growing global presence, with recent solo music success, acting roles, and major brand collaborations. Her ambassadorship adds star power to PlayStation’s global outreach and hints at more cross-industry surprises ahead.

Nintendo confirms the Mario Odyssey team is making Donkey Kong Bananza. Eurogamer

Nintendo has officially confirmed that Donkey Kong Bananza, the upcoming platformer for Switch 2, is being developed by the same team behind Super Mario Odyssey. This marks a rare early reveal of a development team from Nintendo, which typically keeps such details under wraps until release. The game is being crafted by the Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD) group, known for their acclaimed work on 3D Mario titles. Early impressions from hands-on previews are positive, with praise for its engaging gameplay and time-flying fun. Donkey Kong Bananza launches on July 17, and features a musical twist along with new villains from the Void Company: Grumpy Kong, Poppy Kong, and their leader, Void Kong.

System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster for PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch launches July 10. Gematsu

System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster is officially launching on July 10 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch, following its earlier PC debut. Developed by Nightdive Studios using their KEX Engine, this remaster revitalizes the 1999 sci-fi horror classic with 4K visuals at 120 FPS, enhanced gameplay, and full gamepad support. Players will once again face off against the rogue AI SHODAN aboard the haunted starship Von Braun, now with upgraded co-op multiplayer and mod support. The remaster also fixes legacy bugs and introduces quality-of-life improvements, making it the most polished version of the game to date.

Krafton to acquire Japanese animation company for $517 million.Korea JoongAng Daily

In a bold strategic move, Korean game developer Krafton is set to acquire BCJ-31, the parent company of Japanese ad giant ADK Holdings, for approximately $517 million—its largest investment to date. This acquisition aims to strengthen Krafton's presence in the global animation and media industry by transforming ADK, known for producing and marketing over 300 anime titles, into a consolidated affiliate. Rather than acquiring another game studio, Krafton is pursuing cross-industry synergy, planning to expand its gaming intellectual property—such as PUBG—into animation, signaling a long-term strategy to blend gaming and content creation in Japan and beyond.

The future of gaming in MENA: understanding the opportunity. Niko

The MENA-3 gaming market—Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt—is emerging as a $2.8 billion opportunity by 2029, fueled by rising gamer engagement, strong government support, and cultural localization. Major events like the 2025 Esports World Cup in Riyadh, with a $70 million prize pool, highlight the region’s growing influence. Sports titles dominate gameplay, digital wallets are transforming monetization, and over a third of players are now women. Success in the region depends on deep cultural understanding, tailored content, and agile payment solutions.

2K Sports is also teasing a college basketball game, a day after EA Sports did it. VG Chronicles

Hot on the heels of EA Sports teasing its first college basketball game in over a decade, 2K Sports responded with hints of its own revival in the genre. While EA confirmed development with a “Bring the Madness” teaser, 2K playfully replied on social media, suggesting “the campus has been quiet for too long.” The publisher followed up with a statement calling itself “the undisputed home of basketball gaming” and revealed that it's exploring new ways to re engage with college hoops. Though 2K didn’t confirm a new title or collaboration, the back-to-back teases have reignited excitement for a potential resurgence of college basketball video games.

A new MMO in development at Elder Scrolls Online studio ZeniMax has been cancelled as Microsoft puts thousands more people out of work.PCGamer

Microsoft has reportedly cancelled a long-in-development MMO codenamed Blackbird at ZeniMax Online Studios, the team behind The Elder Scrolls Online, amid a sweeping round of layoffs affecting around 9,000 employees. The unannounced project had been in development since 2018 and was described as an entirely original IP. Multiple ZeniMax developers confirmed the cancellation and their own layoffs via LinkedIn, with some learning of their termination through sudden Slack deactivations. The move comes despite Microsoft’s record profits and recent statements about the strength of its gaming roadmap, sparking criticism over the timing and handling of the layoffs.

Sources: Banjo-Kazooie, Sea of Thieves director leaves Rare after 35 years, following Everwild cancellation. VG Chronicles

Legendary game designer Gregg Mayles is reportedly leaving Rare after more than 35 years, following the cancellation of the studio’s long-gestating project Everwild. Mayles, known for directing classics like Banjo-Kazooie, Donkey Kong Country, and Sea of Thieves, had been leading Everwild since its 2021 reboot. Fellow Rare veteran Louise O’Connor, who produced Conker’s Bad Fur Day, is also said to be departing. Their exits come amid sweeping layoffs at Microsoft, which also led to the cancellation of Perfect Dark and several unannounced projects, marking a major shift in the company’s gaming strategy.

Perfect Dark reboot canceled and Xbox developer The Initiative closed as part of devastating Microsoft layoffs. IGN

Microsoft has officially canceled the Perfect Dark reboot and shut down its developer, The Initiative, as part of a sweeping round of layoffs affecting around 9,000 employees across the company. The decision also includes the cancellation of Rare’s Everwild and several unannounced projects, reflecting a major restructuring of Xbox Game Studios. Despite a promising gameplay reveal in 2024, Perfect Dark was notably absent from this year’s showcase, signaling trouble ahead. Microsoft leadership cited a need to refocus resources and prioritize high-potential projects, while assuring that over 40 titles remain in active development heading into 2026.

Rare's Everwild cancelled following Xbox job cuts. Eurogamer

Rare’s long-anticipated fantasy adventure Everwild has officially been cancelled amid sweeping layoffs across Microsoft’s gaming division. First announced in 2019, the game promised a magical world where players, as “Eternals,” would interact with nature’s mystical forces. Despite a promising reveal and sporadic updates, development struggled behind the scenes. Xbox Game Studios head Matt Booty confirmed the cancellation in a memo, citing a broader effort to refocus resources and wind down multiple unannounced projects. The news marks a significant blow to Rare’s portfolio and underscores the impact of Microsoft’s ongoing restructuring efforts.

Former senior Ubisoft staff convicted in French harassment case, receive fines and suspended sentences. EuroGamer

Three former senior Ubisoft executives—Serge Hascoët, Tommy François, and Guillaume Patrux—have been convicted by a French court for workplace harassment, receiving suspended prison sentences and fines. François, found guilty of sexual and psychological harassment and attempted sexual assault, received the harshest penalty: a three-year suspended sentence and a €30,000 fine. Hascoët was sentenced to eight months suspended and fined €45,000 for psychological harassment and complicity, while Patrux received 12 months suspended and a €10,000 fine. The convictions stem from misconduct that occurred before their 2020 departures, marking a significant legal outcome in Ubisoft’s long-running workplace abuse scandal.

Subnautica developer Unknown Worlds loses leadership team. Game Developer

Unknown Worlds, the studio behind Subnautica, has undergone a major leadership shake-up with the sudden departure of CEO Ted Gill, game director Charlie Cleveland, and technical director Max McGuire. Parent company Krafton confirmed the exits were effective immediately and has appointed Steve Papoutsis, former CEO of Striking Distance Studios, as the new head of Unknown Worlds. While the reasons for the departures remain unclear, Krafton emphasized its commitment to delivering Subnautica 2, still slated for early access in 2025. The company expressed confidence that Papoutsis will bring “renewed energy” to the project and reaffirmed that player experience remains the studio’s top priority.

Digimon Story: Time Stranger gameplay deep-dive explanation video published. RPG Site

Bandai Namco has released a detailed gameplay deep-dive video for Digimon Story: Time Stranger during its Summer Showcase 2025. Presented by producer Ryosuke Hara, the video highlights new mechanics like Digimon Personalities, which influence not only stats but also Digivolution requirements, adding a strategic layer similar to Pokémon’s Nature system. The game features over 450 Digimon, time-traveling storylines, and a blend of real-world and Digital World exploration2. Time Stranger launches globally on October 3, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with Japan receiving it a day earlier.

Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree – official guardian trailer | Bandai Namco Showcase 2025. IGN

Bandai Namco has unveiled a new gameplay trailer for Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree, a vibrant roguelite action game developed by Brownies Inc. Launching on September 19, 2025, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and Switch, the game features eight distinct heroes, each with unique abilities that players can harness to shape the fate of their world. The trailer, showcased during the Bandai Namco Summer Showcase 2025, highlights dynamic combat, character variety, and a mystical setting rooted in nature and ancient power.

[Update] Romero Games employee says 'whole studio' subject to layoffs after Microsoft pulls funding for new shooter from Doom co-creator John Romero. IGN

Romero Games, the studio founded by Doom co-creator John Romero and Brenda Romero, has reportedly laid off its entire staff after Microsoft pulled funding for its in-development first-person shooter. The decision, described as a “strategic” move by the publisher, came as a shock to the team, which had consistently met milestones and received internal praise. The unannounced project, built in Unreal Engine 5, was intended to be a major new IP. The layoffs are part of Microsoft’s broader restructuring, which has already led to the cancellation of Perfect Dark, Everwild, and other projects.

Xbox boss Phil Spencer isn't retiring, despite rumors otherwise. GameSpot

Despite swirling rumors, Xbox boss Phil Spencer is not retiring, according to Microsoft. The speculation—sparked by a leaker claiming Spencer would step down after the next-gen Xbox launch—was firmly denied by Xbox communications head Kari Perez, who stated, “Phil is not retiring anytime soon”. The rumors emerged amid massive layoffs at Microsoft, which saw around 9,000 employees let go, including staff from Xbox studios and the cancellation of projects like Perfect Dark and Everwild. Spencer defended the cuts as part of a strategy to focus on high-potential opportunities and ensure long-term success for Microsoft’s gaming division.

Aniplex, JOYCITY, and Capcom announce Resident Evil: Survival Unit for iOS, Android. Gematsu

Aniplex, JOYCITY, and Capcom have announced Resident Evil: Survival Unit, a real-time strategy mobile game reimagining the iconic horror franchise for iOS and Android. The game will launch across major global regions, with more details set to be revealed during an online showcase on July 10.

Xbox producer criticised for suggesting laid-off devs should use AI for ‘career planning and emotional clarity’. VG Chronicles

Matt Turnbull, an Xbox Game Studios producer, drew sharp criticism after suggesting laid-off developers use AI tools like ChatGPT or Copilot for “career planning and emotional clarity.” His LinkedIn post—now deleted—emerged amid widespread backlash over Microsoft’s recent layoffs, which affected thousands and led to multiple project cancellations. Though Turnbull emphasized that AI shouldn’t replace personal experiences, his suggestion was seen as tone-deaf, particularly given the layoffs were partly attributed to Microsoft’s AI investments. Industry professionals called out the post as insensitive, questioning the timing and the implication that former staff needed help crafting résumés or navigating emotions via automated tools.

Nintendo finally reveals the developer behind Switch 2 launch title Welcome Tour, which many said should have been included for free. IGN

Nintendo has officially confirmed that Nintendo Cube—formerly known as NDCube and best known for its work on the Mario Party series—is the developer behind Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour. The game, a mini-game compilation and interactive console tutorial, was widely expected to be a free pack-in title but instead launched as a separate purchase, drawing criticism from fans. While Nintendo Cube has a mixed track record with party games like Wii Party and Everybody 1-2 Switch, it remains the core studio behind the Mario Party franchise since 2012. Despite its charming concept, Welcome Tour was panned for requiring multiple accessories and offering a shallow experience, with critics calling it more of a tech demo than a compelling game.

Another new Resident Evil game has been announced. EuroGamer

Capcom has unveiled Resident Evil: Survival Unit, a new mobile real-time strategy game co-developed with Aniplex and Joycity. Designed to reimagine the franchise’s survival horror roots for iOS and Android, the game promises to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. While gameplay details remain under wraps, a showcase is scheduled for July 10 at 11 PM UK time, where more will be revealed. Teaser artwork hints at a pre-Resident Evil 4 setting, featuring a stormy road and a billboard for the infamous Umbrella Corporation—suggesting the game may take place before Umbrella’s downfall in 2003.

Surprise Elden Ring Nightreign patch brings a couple of solid bug fixes, and one very useful QOL tweak. VG247

The latest Elden Ring: Nightreign patch (1.01.4) delivers a batch of key bug fixes and a small but impactful quality-of-life change, adding weapon type labels to the Armament Information menu to help players quickly identify gear. The update also resolves matchmaking glitches, achievement unlock issues, and disappearing gesture bugs—like the “It’s Raining!” emote not registering properly. While subtle, these changes improve stability and clarity ahead of tomorrow’s expected debut of Gnoster the Sentient Pest as the next Everdark Sovereign—an enhanced Nightlord boss aimed at seasoned players who have already conquered its standard version.

Pokémon: The First Movie is free to watch on YouTube.

CD Projekt Red and Studio Trigger announce Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 anime! Press Release

Destiny: Rising launches August 28. Gematsu

Destiny: Rising, a free-to-play mobile sci-fi RPG shooter developed by NetEase Games and officially licensed by Bungie, is set to launch globally on August 28 for iOS and Android. Set in an alternate Destiny timeline after the Dark Age, the game introduces a new generation of Lightbearers fighting to restore humanity’s future. Players can expect a mix of first- and third-person combat, a diverse cast of characters with unique abilities, and a variety of PvE and PvP modes—including six-player strikes and campaign missions. With exotic weapons, customizable loadouts, and controller support, Destiny: Rising aims to deliver a full-fledged Destiny experience tailored for mobile platforms.