Patch Notes #31 - weekly gaming digest
Welcome to the 31st edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.
This edition will cover the week from 07 July to 13 July.
What caught my attention this week
The whole situation around Final Fantasy IX, but also the IP as a whole. Very interesting to see the discourse on social media.
Been talking with some friends recently about FF, and I wish that the IP had a more defined identity, like in the 90s. For instance, FF16 is a good adventure/fantasy game, but not a good FF game - and that’s an issue.
Conclusion: Dragon Quest > Final Fantasy anyway :)
TLDR
In the wake of Xbox layoffs, founder of Dishonored and Prey dev Arkane slams Game Pass: 'Why is no-one talking about the elephant in the room?”
European game publisher group responds to Stop Killing Games, claims 'these proposals would curtail developer choice'
Internet sleuths think Super Smash Bros., Donkey Kong 64, and more are headed to Nintendo Switch Online.
Which is the best version of Final Fantasy IX in 2025? Switch, PC, PS5, Xbox, mobile and more compared.
Square Enix celebrates Final Fantasy 9's 25th anniversary, so where's the rumoured remake?
Stop Killing Games' proposals for game preservation "prohibitively expensive", major publishers insist
Romero Games is not closed: 'we are doing everything in our power to ensure that it does not come to that'.
Mafia: The Old Country | 9 Minutes of Gameplay.
Tokyo Game Show 2025 exhibitors list and main visual announced.
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 review – you win some, lose some.
XCOM dev’s highly rated Marvel’s Midnight Suns is ‘free’ to claim for a limited time.
Capcom cancels a presentation on Monster Hunter Wilds performance at CEDEC 2025 amid ongoing developer harassment.
Wargroove 2 coming to iOS, Android on July 30.
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree - official Shinju Village overview trailer.
PlayStation Plus Extra/Premium games for July 2025 include Cyberpunk 2077.
Rare announces unprecedented Sea of Thieves Community Direct broadcast, week after Microsoft layoffs.
Stalker 2 is coming to PS5 later this year with PS5 Pro enhancements.
Doom SNES limited run collection and rumble controller look sick as hell.
Nintendo is ending the Nintendo Switch Game Voucher service.
USA in Video Games | May 2025 Report.
Bitsummit, Japan’s leading indie game event, has opened up a special website with a list of guests and stage events for this year.
SAG-AFTRA approves 2025 video game agreement, officially concluding its strike.
Astro Bot is still receiving free updates, with new bots and levels added today.
A big bananas interview with the developers of Donkey Kong Bananza.
Koei Tecmo has released a free Wild Hearts S demo on the eShop for Nintendo Switch 2 (Update).
IO acknowledges Hitman performance issues on Switch 2, promises fixes are coming.
Sea of Thieves is getting multi-ship private servers and paid custom servers "early" next year.
The FBI has seized a major Nintendo Switch piracy site.
Two limited edition Ghost of Yōtei PS5 bundles with designs "rooted in traditional Japanese art" announced.
Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian includes more series characters like Ryza and Logy.
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter character trailer – Kloe Rinz.
Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack announced for Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, Switch, PS4, and Steam this year.
Final Fantasy producer Yoshi-P says 'there's no clear-cut answer' to whether Final Fantasy will return to turn-based RPGs, because the direction of the next Final Fantasy will be up to the directors of the next Final Fantasy.
Subnautica 2 drama escalates: ousted developers launch legal action as Krafton accuses them of abandoning the project.
Biggest news of the week
In the wake of Xbox layoffs, the founder of Dishonored and Prey dev Arkane slams Game Pass: 'Why is no one talking about the elephant in the room?' IGN
Following major Xbox layoffs, Arkane founder Raphael Colantonio criticised Game Pass as potentially damaging to the gaming industry's long-term health. He warned that Microsoft's deep financial backing masks structural risks, especially concerning market dominance, declining game quality, and future pricing. His concerns sparked broader pushback from industry peers, highlighting fears that the subscription model may undermine game value and creative freedom..
European game publisher group responds to Stop Killing Games, claims 'these proposals would curtail developer choice'. PCGamer
The Stop Killing Games movement, which recently gained enough support to become a European Citizens' Initiative, is facing pushback from Video Games Europe, a major trade group representing EU game developers and publishers. In a formal statement, the group acknowledged the community’s concerns but defended the right of companies to shut down online services when they’re no longer commercially viable. They argued that mandating alternatives like private servers or offline modes would impose heavy costs, compromise data security, and limit creative freedom, especially for games built to be online-only. According to the group, such proposals would make game development “prohibitively expensive” and restrict developer autonomy.
Internet sleuths think Super Smash Bros., Donkey Kong 64, and more are headed to Nintendo Switch Online. GameSpot
A group of sharp-eyed Nintendo fans believe they’ve uncovered a hidden surprise in a recent Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) video: the potential arrival of five classic Nintendo 64 games. By enhancing blurry cover art shown briefly in the footage, the sleuths—led by VTuber Imakuni—suggest that Donkey Kong 64, Forsaken 64, Glover, Rayman 2: The Great Escape, and Super Smash Bros. may soon join the NSO N64 library. While Nintendo hasn’t confirmed these additions, the speculation has gained traction online, especially since the NSO N64 lineup has only seen two updates in 2025 so far. With the launch of Nintendo Switch 2 and its GameCube offerings, fans are hopeful that more retro gems are on the way.
Which is the best version of Final Fantasy IX in 2025? Switch, PC, PS5, Xbox, mobile and more compared. RPG Site
Final Fantasy IX’s 25th anniversary highlights the many versions now available across platforms, but not all offer the same quality. The remastered version adds useful features like autosave and cheats, but has visual and performance issues on some systems, especially the Nintendo Switch. Overall, the best way to play in 2025 is the Steam version with the Moguri Mod, which offers the most complete and visually enhanced experience. Console players are best off with the PS4/PS5 version, while mobile (iOS) performs better than expected.
Square Enix celebrates Final Fantasy 9's 25th anniversary, so where's the rumoured remake?. EuroGamer
Square Enix’s celebration of Final Fantasy IX’s 25th anniversary has reignited speculation about a long-rumoured remake, though no official announcement has been made. The company released a nostalgic tribute video, new merchandise, and a prequel picture book. Still, fans were left disappointed by the absence of concrete news about a remake, especially since FFIX.
Stop Killing Games' proposals for game preservation "prohibitively expensive", major publishers insist. EuroGamer
The Stop Killing Games movement, which advocates for preserving access to purchased games even after online services are discontinued, has surpassed 1 million signatures in its EU petition—enough to trigger a parliamentary debate potentially. In response, Video Games Europe, a major industry lobbying group representing companies like Ubisoft, Microsoft, and Nintendo, pushed back, arguing that the movement’s proposals would make game development “prohibitively expensive”. They claim that mandating offline alternatives or private servers for online-only games would compromise data security, increase legal liability, and limit creative freedom. Meanwhile, movement founder Ross Scott criticised the industry's stance as weak and reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for consumer rights and game preservation.
Romero Games is not closed: 'we are doing everything in our power to ensure that it does not come to that'. PCGamer
Romero Games has clarified that it is not shutting down, despite the recent cancellation of its in-development first-person shooter and speculation following widespread layoffs at Microsoft. While the studio did lose funding for its project—part of a broader wave of project cancellations—it emphasized that it’s actively seeking new publishing partners to continue development. Although some layoffs at the studio have occurred, Romero Games is fighting to survive and complete its game.
Mafia: The Old Country | 9 Minutes of Gameplay.
Tokyo Game Show 2025 exhibitors list and main visual announced. Gematsu
The Tokyo Game Show 2025, scheduled for September 25 to 28 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan, is shaping up to be the biggest in the event’s history. As of July 8, it boasts a record-breaking 772 exhibitors across 4,083 booths—surpassing last year’s 3,252 booths—with participants from 46 countries and regions. Major companies like Sony Interactive Entertainment, SEGA, Square Enix, Koei Tecmo, and many others will be present. The event's main visual, themed “Unlimited, Neverending Playgrounds,” was created by Zashiki Warashi, who expressed gratitude and excitement for the opportunity. The exhibition spans multiple zones including gaming hardware, indie games, AR/VR, eSports, business solutions, merchandise, and more—highlighting both industry giants and rising indie developers from around the world.
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 review- you win some, lose some. GameSpot
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 is a technically strong and nostalgic remake that continues the franchise’s legacy with smooth gameplay and beautifully redesigned levels. Still, it stumbles due to questionable design decisions-especially how THPS 4’s unique open-world mission structure has been reworked to match the older, time-limited format. While the skating mechanics remain superb, changes to Career mode, goal design, and level structure strip away some of the original games’ character, disappointing longtime fans. Nonetheless, the game redeems itself with excellent new maps, a killer soundtrack, solid multiplayer features, and an inventive new “HAWK” mode that adds fresh excitement. Despite some mismatches and lost charm, THPS 3+4 still delivers a satisfying skateboarding experience.
XCOM dev’s highly rated Marvel’s Midnight Suns is ‘free’ to claim for a limited time. VG Chronicles
Marvel’s Midnight Suns, the tactical superhero RPG from XCOM developer Firaxis, is currently free to claim and keep via Amazon Prime Gaming as part of Prime Day 2025 celebrations. Unlike subscription-based services, Prime Gaming offers permanent ownership through redeemable codes. Despite strong critical reception, the game struggled commercially, leading to early discounts and contributing to studio changes, including the departure of longtime director Jake Solomon. This limited-time offer gives players a chance to experience the game’s strategic combat and supernatural Marvel storyline without cost.
Capcom cancels a presentation on Monster Hunter Wilds’ performance at CEDEC 2025 amid ongoing developer harassment. PCGamer
Capcom has cancelled a planned CEDEC 2025 presentation on Monster Hunter Wilds’ performance optimisation amid ongoing harassment of its developers. The talk was set to explore technical efforts behind the game’s stability, including GPU, CPU, and memory management. Although no official reason was given, the cancellation follows a wave of negative reviews focused on performance issues and a recent Capcom statement warning it may pursue legal action in cases of severe customer harassment.
PERSONAL NOTE: Can’t fans be fucking normal, please?
Wargroove 2 coming to iOS, Android on July 30. Gematsu
Wargroove 2: Pocket Edition is marching onto iOS and Android on July 30 for $7.99, bringing its retro turn-based strategy gameplay to mobile with complete touchscreen optimisation. Originally launched on PC and consoles, this mobile version includes the whole 20-hour campaign with three interwoven storylines, over 20 Commanders, six factions, and both local and online multiplayer with cross-play support. Players can also dive into a roguelike conquest mode, unleash powerful Groove abilities, and create custom maps and campaigns using robust editing tools—all on the go.
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree - official Shinju Village overview trailer. IGN
The latest trailer for Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree spotlights Shinju Village, the game’s vibrant hub where players can rest, upgrade, and prepare between dungeon runs. Developed by Brownies Inc., this action anime roguelike lets players step into the role of Towa, leading a team of guardians to battle the dark forces of Magatsu. The village features lively NPCs, a blacksmith for forging weapons, culinary buffs from local chefs, and evolving storylines shaped by player choices. The game launches September 19 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
PlayStation Plus Extra/Premium games for July 2025 include Cyberpunk 2077. GameSpot
Sony’s PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium tiers are offering a strong lineup for July 2025, headlined by Cyberpunk 2077, now available to play as part of the service’s 15th anniversary celebration. The sci-fi RPG, once plagued by a rocky launch, has evolved into one of CD Projekt Red’s most acclaimed titles. Subscribers can also enjoy a 30% discount on the expansion Phantom Liberty until July 23. Other notable additions include the co-op survival game Abiotic Factor (launching July 22), the emotional action-RPG Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden, and family-friendly Bluey: The Video Game. Classic vehicular combat titles Twisted Metal 3 and 4 are also joining the Premium catalogue on July 15.
Rare announces unprecedented Sea of Thieves Community Direct broadcast, week after Microsoft layoffs. IGN
Rare is set to host its first-ever Sea of Thieves Community Direct livestream on July 10, aiming to reassure fans and outline the game’s future amid recent upheaval. The announcement follows Microsoft’s sweeping layoffs, which impacted around 9,100 employees—including key Rare staff—and led to the cancellation of the long-in-development title Everwild. Despite these setbacks, Rare remains committed to Sea of Thieves, now in its 17th season, and will use the broadcast to detail upcoming seasonal content, Insider Programme changes, and a long-requested feature. The event signals Rare’s intent to maintain transparency and momentum for its flagship pirate adventure.
Stalker 2 is coming to PS5 later this year with PS5 Pro enhancements. VG Chronicles
GSC Game World has confirmed that Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl will arrive on PlayStation 5 in late 2025, marking the end of its Xbox console exclusivity. The PS5 version will feature DualSense support, including haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, along with undisclosed enhancements for PS5 Pro. Initially launched in November 2024 for Xbox Series X/S and PC, the game faced significant performance issues, prompting numerous patches to address thousands of bugs. Despite its technical flaws, Stalker 2 was praised for its compelling setting and side stories, and the upcoming PS5 release offers a chance for a more polished experience.
Doom SNES limited run collection and rumble controller look sick as hell. GameSpot
Limited Run Games is celebrating Doom’s 30th anniversary on SNES with a collector’s edition that’s as bloody as it is nostalgic. Launching for preorder on July 11, the $175 collector’s edition includes a blood-splattered cartridge, embossed foil box, poster, and instruction booklet - but not the controller. A separate $35 SNES rumble controller, the first of its kind, will also be available, adding vibration support to the enhanced cartridge. Both editions feature 14 new levels, nightmare mode, circle strafing, and performance upgrades. Pre-orders run through August 10, with delivery expected in February 2026.
Nintendo is ending the Nintendo Switch Game Voucher service. VG Chronicles
Nintendo has announced it will discontinue the Switch Game Voucher service on January 30, 2026, ending a popular way for players to save on digital titles. The vouchers, which allowed users to redeem two games for $99.98—often saving around $20 - will remain valid for 12 months after purchase, meaning vouchers bought on the final day will still be usable until January 30, 2027. While Nintendo hasn’t confirmed a replacement program for Switch 2 titles, it will continue adding eligible games to the voucher catalogue throughout 20262. The move comes amid rising game prices and shifting digital strategies.
USA in Video Games | May 2025 Report. Shinobi602 Twitter
The USA in Video Games report for May 2025 shows a modest 1% year-over-year increase in total spending, with Elden Ring: Nightreign leading sales, followed by Doom: The Dark Ages and Forza Horizon 5. The PS5 was the top-selling console, up 3% YoY, while Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch saw steep declines of 30% and 44%, respectively. Subscription services hit a record $600 million, and the Midnight Black DualSense controller was the best-selling accessory. Notably, Star Wars: Battlefront II surged to #5 on PC, reflecting renewed interest in legacy titles.
Bitsummit, Japan’s leading indie game event, has opened up a special website with a list of guests and stage events for this year. Genki Twitter
BitSummit 2025 - Japan’s premier indie game festival—is gearing up for its biggest show yet, running July 19–20 in Kyoto with a star-studded lineup and over 120 indie titles from around the world. The event’s theme, Summer of Yokai, celebrates supernatural folklore while spotlighting bold creativity in game development.
Astro Bot is still receiving free updates, with new bots and levels added today. EuroGamer
Team Asobi continues to expand Astro Bot with a free update that adds five new levels to the Vicious Void Galaxy, pushing the total count to over 90. These challenging stages—Twin-Frog Trouble, Suck It Up, Handhold Havoc, High Inflation, and one yet-to-be-revealed—also introduce new secret bots to rescue, including Atsu from Ghost of Yōtei. Completing all levels may unlock a special reward. Additionally, a refreshed version of the limited edition Astro Bot DualSense controller is set to launch later this year, celebrating the game’s ongoing success since its September 2024 release.
Our big bananas interview with the developers of Donkey Kong Bananza. IGN
In a recent interview with IGN, developers Kenta Motokura and Kazuya Takahashi shared deep insights into the development of Donkey Kong Bananza, the upcoming 3D adventure game launching on Nintendo Switch 2. The game, developed by the same team behind Super Mario Odyssey, centres around Donkey Kong's strength and unique abilities paired with innovative voxel-based destruction gameplay. The team drew inspiration from Donkey Kong's history, incorporating familiar elements like barrel cannons and mine carts, while also introducing new mechanics such as Banandium-based transformations and a companion system featuring a 13-year-old Pauline. Designed to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers, Bananza features skill progression, co-op gameplay, and flexible difficulty options, marking a bold new direction for the franchise.
Koei Tecmo has released a free Wild Hearts S demo on the eShop for Nintendo Switch 2 (Update). RPG Site
Koei Tecmo has released a free demo for Wild Hearts S on the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop across Japan, Australia, Europe, and North America. The 24GB demo lets players experience the game’s prologue through to the city of Minato, either solo or in four-player online or local co-op. Players will battle nature-infused beasts like Ragetail, Sapscourge, and Kingtusk using customizable weapons and Karakuri constructs. Progress from the demo will carry over to the full game, which launches globally on July 25. Pre-orders are available now, with the full game weighing in at around 34GB.
IO acknowledges Hitman performance issues on Switch 2, promises fixes are coming. GameSpot
IO Interactive has acknowledged the performance issues affecting Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition on Nintendo Switch 2, which launched with unstable frame rates and technical hiccups. The studio’s franchise director, Jonathan Lacaille, confirmed that fixes are in the works and are expected to roll out this summer. These challenges have prompted IO to apply lessons learned to their upcoming title 007: First Light, also in development for Switch 2. Despite the rocky start, Lacaille emphasised that the Switch 2 is powerful enough to support native versions of their games, distancing it from the cloud-based approach used on the original Switch.
Sea of Thieves is getting multi-ship private servers and paid custom servers "early" next year. EuroGamer
Rare has announced that Sea of Thieves will introduce multi-ship private servers and paid custom servers in early 2026. These custom servers—called Custom Seas—will allow players to tweak gameplay elements like disabling storms, spawning loot, and adjusting crew sizes, all through a premium subscription. The update aims to empower the community with creative control while expanding the game’s sandbox potential. Additionally, the Safer Seas mode will be enhanced to support fleets of friends, though it's unclear if this will be part of the paid tier.
The FBI has seized a major Nintendo Switch piracy site. VG Chronicles
The FBI has seized a Nintendo Switch piracy site known for hosting thousands of pirated game files, intensifying Nintendo’s long-running crackdown on piracy. A U.S. District Court in Georgia authorised the seizure and follows the site’s inclusion on the EU’s piracy watchlist earlier this year. Despite hardware revisions, the original Switch remains the most pirated mainstream console, with pirated games often surfacing online before official release. While the Switch 2 has seen fewer issues so far, Nintendo continues to pursue legal action against piracy groups and emulator developers, including a $2.4 million settlement with Yuzu’s creators and the shutdown of the Citra emulator.
Two limited edition Ghost of Yōtei PS5 bundles with designs "rooted in traditional Japanese art" announced. EuroGamer
Sony and Sucker Punch have unveiled two Ghost of Yōtei Limited Edition PS5 bundles, each inspired by traditional Japanese art and launching alongside the game on October 2, 2025. The Gold Edition features kintsugi-style gold detailing, symbolising protagonist Atsu’s journey of healing and resilience. The Black Edition, inspired by sumi-e ink painting, reflects the beauty of Ezo’s landscape and Atsu’s inner struggle. Both bundles include a matching DualSense controller with Atsu’s silhouette and thematic design elements. Console covers and standalone controllers will also be available for PS5 Slim and Pro owners.
Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian includes more series characters like Ryza and Logy. RPG Site
Koei Tecmo and Gust have expanded the character roster for Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian, confirming the return of five fan-favorite alchemists from previous entries. These include Ryza and Klaudia from the Atelier Ryza trilogy, Ayesha Altugle from Atelier Ayesha, Logy Ficsario from Atelier Escha & Logy, and Vayne Aurelius, the protagonist of Mana Khemia. Each character brings their unique background and skills into the new adventure, which launches globally on September 26 for PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with a PS4 version exclusive to Japan.
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter character trailer – Kloe Rinz. Gematsu
Falcom has released a new character trailer for Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, spotlighting Kloe Rinz, a compassionate student from Jenis Royal Academy in the Ruan region. Known for her gentle nature, Kloe spends her free time helping at a local orphanage, where the children and staff deeply trust her. She shares a close bond with her white falcon, Sieg, despite their inability to communicate verbally. Kloe meets protagonists Estelle and Joshua during a visit to a nearby village, setting the stage for her involvement in the story. The game launches worldwide on September 19 for PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack announced for Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, Switch, PS4, and Steam this year. RPG Site
Koei Tecmo has announced the Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack, a digital-only bundle releasing in 2025 for PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch 2, Switch, and Steam. This definitive edition includes all three titles from the “Secret” series—Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & the Secret Hideout, Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy, and Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key—alongside new story content and playable characters. While no upgrade path for existing owners has been confirmed, a livestream on August 4 will reveal more details. Physical editions will be available in Japan for PS4 and PS5 with English support.
Final Fantasy producer Yoshi-P says 'there's no clear-cut answer' to whether Final Fantasy will return to turn-based RPGs, because the direction of the next Final Fantasy will be up to the directors of the next Final Fantasy. PCGamer
Final Fantasy producer Naoki "Yoshi-P" Yoshida addressed the growing interest in turn-based JRPGs - sparked by the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 - by explaining that the future of Final Fantasy’s combat style isn’t easily defined. In an interview with Anime News Network, he emphasised that the choice between turn-based and action gameplay depends on the broader creative vision of each game’s development team, including its narrative, visuals, and overall design. Yoshida noted that he may not be involved in future entries like Final Fantasy XVII, and that the direction will ultimately be up to the next director, as Square Enix doesn’t want to constrain their creative freedom.
Subnautica 2 drama escalates: ousted developers launch legal action as Krafton accuses them of abandoning the project. EuroGamer
Subnautica 2 has plunged into deep controversy as Krafton, the publisher, replaced key leadership at developer Unknown Worlds—including founder Charlie Cleveland—and accused them of abandoning the project. Krafton claims the former executives refused to resume their roles, contributing to delays and a lacklustre early access build. In response, Cleveland announced a lawsuit, asserting the game is ready and denying Krafton's allegations, especially around a disputed $250 million bonus. He emphasised the team's dedication and vowed to continue profit-sharing. The game is now expected to enter early access in 2026.
Biggest releases this week
