Patch Notes #32 - weekly gaming digest
Welcome to the 32nd edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.
This edition will cover the week from 14 July to 20 July.
What caught my attention this week
Ubisoft's new spun-off division is being led by Yves Guillemot's son, and he believes GenAI will "revolutionize" gaming. GameSpot
Ubisoft has launched a new subsidiary focused on expanding its flagship franchises—Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six - with Tencent investing over $1 billion for a minority stake. Co-led by Charlie Guillemot, son of Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, and veteran Christophe Derennes, the division aims to accelerate growth and deepen cultural impact. Charlie, addressing concerns about nepotism, emphasised his industry experience and Ubisoft’s current needs. He also championed generative AI and cloud tech as transformative forces for game development, despite ongoing industry concerns about job displacement. The new entity will operate independently but remain under Ubisoft’s broader governance.
TLDR
Nintendo is gauging player opinion on Switch 2’s Game Key Cards in Japan
Mario movie team returns for a Donkey Kong film, listing reveals.
Remedy's Sam Lake: "Find somebody who makes you better and gives you energy".
Mortal Kombat 2 movie poster pokes fun at Tom Cruise and Mission: Impossible.
Upcoming Dragon Quest remakes won't upgrade from Switch to Switch 2.
AI is reportedly replacing Microsoft's 200 laid-off King devs they helped build, while its 'absolute 's*show' HR department looks away and whistles.
Xbox Game Pass titles for July include Grounded 2, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, and more.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 dev says it’s removing a cheeky Guitar Hero reference and ‘investigating’ how it happened.
Avowed patch 1.5 is now available, bringing in new abilities, Japanese and Korean language support, and more.
Frosthaven launches in Early Access on July 31.
Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition is an excellent, subtle remaster and my new Steam Deck game of the summer.
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree - official Guardian trailer 2.
Cyberpunk 2077 version 2.3 update launches July 17 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC, later for Switch 2.
Sonic Racing CrossWorlds Switch 2 will have cross-progression and ‘the full game on cartridge’.
EA really wants you to know it listened to fan feedback in creating EA Sports FC 26 as gameplay reveals addresses critics.
Sam Lake and Laura Bailey join the cast of Surgent Studios’ Dead Take.
Who are the actors behind Link and Zelda in Nintendo's live-action The Legend of Zelda movie?.
$250 N64 reimagining Analogue 3D has been delayed again, blaming tariffs.
Nintendo confirms a public demo for its secretive Switch 2 exclusive Drag X Drive — but you'll need a Switch Online subscription to play
Donkey Kong Bananza is a technically ambitious Switch 2 showcase, despite some rough edges.
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers PC system requirements revealed during 505 Games' community showcase.
FromSoftware is reportedly in advanced development on an unannounced project alongside The Duskbloods.
Netflix greenlights the Assassin's Creed series: ‘It’s about power, violence, sex and greed’.
Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road has been delayed again and it is now releasing on November 13.
Genshin Impact version 5.8 update ‘Sunspray Summer Resort’ launches July 30.
Wuthering Waves Version 2.5 "Unfading Melody of Life" launches on July 24.
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter character trailer – Agate Crosner.
Ubisoft CEO responds to the Stop Killing Games petition, stating the publisher is 'working on' improving its approach to end-of-life support, but that 'nothing is eternal'.
Leaked image suggests the next Battlefield game will be called Battlefield 6 – and the reveal event is coming very soon.
Ousted Subnautica 2 devs' lawsuit demands full $250 million payout and creative control.
Pokémon Presents tease revealed as DJ Pikachu show.
Warframe’s next major narrative chapter The Old Peace launches this year, Android closed beta coming fall 2025.
"The age of gameplay mechanics has already passed," says Ico, Shadow of the Colossus director.
Ubisoft confirms it is working on a new Ghost Recon game, and it sure looks like it'll be a live service affair.
Biggest news of the week
Nintendo is gauging player opinion on Switch 2’s Game Key Cards in Japan. VG Chronicles
Nintendo is seeking public feedback on Switch 2’s Game Key Cards in Japan amid growing criticism. Unlike traditional cartridges, these cards merely provide a digital activation key, requiring players to download game data separately. While they can be resold and used across devices, their lack of physical game data has sparked backlash from game preservationists and developers. In response, Nintendo distributed a detailed survey to assess user awareness and preferences between Game Key Cards and full digital downloads, gauging how these choices impact purchasing behaviour.
Mario movie team returns for a Donkey Kong film, listing reveals. GameSpot
Nintendo and Universal have officially filed a copyright for an “untitled Donkey Kong motion picture,” confirming long-standing rumours of a solo film for the iconic character. This marks a major shift from their past legal battles over Donkey Kong’s resemblance to King Kong, and follows the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which grossed over $1.3 billion globally. Seth Rogen, who voiced Donkey Kong in the 2023 Mario film, is expected to reprise his role, though no casting has been confirmed. The timing of the filing coincides with the upcoming release of Donkey Kong Bananza on July 17 for Nintendo Switch 2, suggesting a coordinated push to reestablish Donkey Kong as a leading franchise figure.
Remedy's Sam Lake: "Find somebody who makes you better and gives you energy". GamesIndustry
Sam Lake, creative director at Remedy, emphasised the importance of strong creative partnerships, collaboration, and open communication in game development during his talk at Develop:Brighton. He shared insights from his career, particularly around Alan Wake 2, highlighting how working with trusted collaborators and experimenting with different artistic mediums—like live-action, music, and Finnish culture—enhances storytelling. Despite past setbacks, he sees every experience as valuable to the creative journey and is most proud of what the team achieved with Alan Wake 2.
Metaphor: ReFantazio has sold over 2 million copies worldwide. Wario64 Twitter
Mortal Kombat 2 movie poster pokes fun at Tom Cruise and Mission: Impossible. GameSpot
The Mortal Kombat 2 movie is ramping up its promotional campaign with a cheeky new poster featuring Johnny Cage in a fictional film titled Uncaged Fury, parodying Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible. Played by Karl Urban, Cage is portrayed as a martial arts-savvy action star who blends Hollywood bravado with brutal combat. The sequel, set to release on October 24, 2025, reunites much of the original cast and centres on Earthrealm’s final stand against Shao Kahn’s Outworld forces. Meanwhile, the franchise’s gaming side is shifting gears: support for Mortal Kombat 1 is winding down, and fans can look forward to the Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection, a remastered bundle of ten classic titles with modern upgrades like rollback netcode.
Upcoming Dragon Quest remakes won't upgrade from Switch to Switch 2. GameSpot
Square Enix has confirmed that Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake will not support any upgrade path between the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 versions, meaning players must purchase the game separately for each console. Additionally, save data will not transfer between versions, further frustrating fans who expected cross-generation compatibility. The Switch 2 release will utilise Game Key Cards, which contain no game data and serve only as digital activation keys, unlike the traditional cartridges used for the original Switch version. While Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles offers an upgrade path, Dragon Quest I & II will not, prompting criticism over Square Enix’s handling of the transition between platforms.
AI is reportedly replacing Microsoft's 200 laid-off King devs they helped build, while its 'absolute 's*show' HR department looks away and whistles. PCGamer
Microsoft has reportedly replaced around 200 laid-off employees at King—developer of Candy Crush—with AI tools that those same staff helped build. The cuts, part of a broader wave of 9,000 layoffs across Microsoft’s gaming division, hit teams in level design, UX, and narrative writing. Sources claim the AI systems were originally developed to streamline game production, but are now being used to replace entire departments. Morale at King is reportedly “in the gutter,” with staff alleging that HR has failed to support employees and that those who voiced concerns have been disproportionately targeted. Despite King’s profitability, the move has sparked backlash over corporate priorities and the ethical use of AI in creative industries.
Xbox Game Pass titles for July include Grounded 2, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, and more. VG Chronicles
Microsoft has unveiled the second wave of Xbox Game Pass titles for July 2025, featuring a mix of new releases and returning favourites. Highlights include Grounded 2, launching via Game Preview on July 29, and Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, a dark soulslike RPG arriving day-one on July 24. Other additions include RoboCop: Rogue City, My Friendly Neighborhood, Back to the Dawn, Abiotic Factor, and Wheel World, all staggered throughout the month. High On Life is already available, while Farming Simulator 25 will round out the lineup on August 1. Meanwhile, Gigantic, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, and Turnip Boy Robs a Bank will be removed from the service on July 31.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 dev says it’s removing a cheeky Guitar Hero reference and ‘investigating’ how it happened. VG Chronicles
Iron Galaxy, the developer behind Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, has announced plans to remove a cheeky Easter egg referencing Guitar Hero and former series developer NeverSoft. The reference, found in the new Waterpark level, features a fictional “Banjo Hero” game box modelled after Guitar Hero World Tour—placed conspicuously inside a trash bin. While Iron Galaxy says it’s investigating how the asset made it into the game, fans have pushed back against its removal, calling it a harmless gag and a fitting nod to the franchise’s history. Despite the backlash, the studio confirmed the asset will be removed in an upcoming update.
Avowed patch 1.5 is now available, bringing in new abilities, Japanese and Korean language support, and more. RPG Site
Obsidian has released a major Patch 1.5 for Avowed, adding new Fighter and Ranger abilities, Japanese and Korean language support, more unique items, and Steam Deck Verified status. The update includes UI/UX improvements, custom map markers, balance changes, accessibility options, and bug fixes across quests, combat, performance, and localisation. A new roadmap reveals one final major update is coming, featuring photo mode, New Game+, and a new weapon type.
Frosthaven launches in Early Access on July 31. RPG Site
Frosthaven, the dark fantasy tactical RPG based on the acclaimed board game, will launch in Early Access on July 31, 2025 for PC via Steam and Epic Games Store at $39.99. Developed by Snapshot Games and published by Arc Games, the Early Access version will feature roughly one-third of the planned content, including single-player and online co-op modes, eight playable characters, 40+ tactical quests, and 100+ choice-driven events. Players can also build and upgrade their own Outpost to unlock new gameplay features. The game will be showcased at Gen Con 2025, where attendees can try an exclusive demo and meet the development team2. Major updates are expected every three months, with full release planned after about a year of community-driven development.
Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition is an excellent, subtle remaster and my new Steam Deck game of the summer. PCGamer
Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition has emerged as a standout remaster, especially for Steam Deck users seeking a portable CRPG experience. While the original 2006 release struggled with aging mechanics and UI limitations, Aspyr’s subtle enhancements—like improved resolution scaling, smoother camera controls, and full mod/save compatibility—make this version far more accessible. The game retains its deep D&D 3.5 ruleset and classic party-based combat, but now runs consistently at 60fps on Steam Deck with controller support that mimics Knights of the Old Republic. Though some UI quirks and battery drain persist, the remaster preserves the charm and complexity of the original while modernising its performance and playability. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it’s a compelling way to revisit—or discover—one of Obsidian’s most ambitious RPGs.
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree - official Guardian trailer 2. IGN
The latest trailer for Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree introduces two fierce new characters: Origami and Shigin, who join the fight against the Magaori threat. Origami, once a village elder, is driven by a mysterious curse, while Shigin is a swift swordsman fueled by hatred for the enemy. The trailer showcases their unique combat styles and dynamic gameplay in this upcoming roguelite action title. Launching on September 19, 2025, the game will be available on PC, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch.
Cyberpunk 2077 version 2.3 update launches July 17 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC, later for Switch 2. Gematsu
Launching July 17 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S—with Switch 2 support coming later—Cyberpunk 2077’s free update 2.3 introduces hands-free navigation via AutoDrive and the Delamain taxi service. Players can unlock new vehicles, including one from the Kickdown comic, by completing quests. Photo Mode gains deeper customisation with weather control, expanded NPC poses, and advanced framing options. Tech-wise, the update adds support for VRR, FSR 4, Intel XeSS 2.0, and enhanced HDR. The update coincides with the release of the Ultimate Edition on Mac (16GB+ Apple silicon), although legacy console versions remain excluded.
Sonic Racing CrossWorlds Switch 2 will have cross-progression and ‘the full game on cartridge’. VG Chronicles
Sega has confirmed that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will launch digitally for Switch 2 this holiday season, followed by a physical release in early 2026 featuring the full base game on cartridge—a notable departure from the controversial game-key card trend. Players who own the original Switch version can upgrade to Switch 2 for $10, with all content and progress carrying over. The game debuts on September 25 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series, Xbox One, PC, and Switch, and includes over 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and more than 100 customisation parts. A new trailer highlights deep personalisation and gadget mechanics, positioning CrossWorlds as a serious rival to Mario Kart World.
EA really wants you to know it listened to fan feedback in creating EA Sports FC 26 as gameplay reveals address critics. EuroGamer
EA Sports FC 26 launches September 26 across all major platforms, with early access starting September 19 for Ultimate Edition buyers and EA Play members. The reveal trailer highlights EA’s renewed focus on community input, showcasing refined gameplay fundamentals like improved dribbling, smarter goalkeeper AI, and explosive player movement. Two new presets—Competitive and Authentic—let players tailor their experience for Ultimate Team or Career Mode. Manager Career introduces a dynamic Manager Live hub, while Clubs and Player Career gain Archetypes for deeper customisation. With over 20,000 athletes, 750 teams, and 120 stadiums, FC 26 aims to win back fans after FC 25’s lukewarm reception.
Sam Lake and Laura Bailey join the cast of Surgent Studios’ Dead Take. VG Chronicles
Launching July 31 for PC, Dead Take is a first-person psychological horror set in a Hollywood Hills mansion, starring Neil Newbon as Chase Lowry, an actor searching for his missing friend after a glamorous party unravels into something far more sinister. With a cast that includes Jane Perry, Alanah Pearce, Laura Bailey, Sam Lake, and others, the game explores themes of ambition, self-deception, and the darker consequences of fame. Creative director Abubakar Salim says the cast was chosen for their personal experience with pressure and performance, “a chance to bleed it out.”
Who are the actors behind Link and Zelda in Nintendo's live-action The Legend of Zelda movie? IGN
Nintendo has cast British actors Benjamin Evan Ainsworth and Bo Bragason as Link and Zelda in its upcoming Legend of Zelda live-action movie. Ainsworth, age 16, brings experience from roles in Pinocchio and The Haunting of Bly Manor, while Bragason has earned praise for her performances in Renegade Nell and The Jetty. Unlike Nintendo’s previous casting of high-profile actors like Chris Pratt for Mario, this film opts for rising talent to match the youthful essence of its characters. Early images tease their costumes, though full story and setting details remain under wraps.
The $250 N64 reimagining, Analogue 3D, has been delayed again, citing tariffs. VG Chronicles
Analogue's FPGA-powered reimagining of the Nintendo 64, the Analogue 3D, has been delayed yet again, with a new shipping date of late August 2025. Initially scheduled for Q1, then July, the $250 console faces logistical setbacks due to new US import tariffs affecting shipments from Asia. Despite delays, customers with existing preorders don’t need to take action and can cancel for a full refund at any time. Promising true 4K playback of physical N64 cartridges, CEO Christopher Taber claims Analogue 3D will outperform emulation, delivering CRT-era accuracy through meticulous in-house engineering.
Nintendo confirms a public demo for its secretive Switch 2 exclusive Drag X Drive - but you'll need a Switch Online subscription to play. IGN
Nintendo will host a two-day Drag x Drive: Global Jam demo event for its upcoming Switch 2-exclusive multiplayer sports game on August 9–10, accessible only to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Inspired by wheelchair basketball, the game features 3v3 neon-court matches with motion-based controls and lacks local multiplayer. Launching on August 14 at a budget price of $19.99, the limited demo offers early hands-on time but has sparked debate over restricting access to subscribers just weeks before release.
Donkey Kong Bananza is a technically ambitious Switch 2 showcase, despite some rough edges. EuroGamer
Donkey Kong Bananza is a bold and inventive 3D platformer that marks a triumphant return for the franchise, combining imaginative level design with technical ambition. Built for the new Nintendo Switch 2, the game introduces a unique destructibility system that allows players to reshape terrain in real-time, blending creative freedom with traditional Nintendo polish. While visually impressive—especially in materials, animations, and character rendering—it suffers from some rough edges, such as low-resolution shadows, inconsistent frame rates, and underwhelming upscaling technology. Despite these flaws, its fast-paced gameplay, clever mechanics, and rich audio make it one of Nintendo’s best 3D platformers in years and a strong showcase for the Switch 2’s potential.
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers PC system requirements revealed during 505 Games' community showcase. RPG Site
During 505 Games’ latest community showcase, the full PC system requirements for Wuchang: Fallen Feathers were unveiled, confirming support for DLSS and FSR across both minimum and recommended specs. Players will need at least an Intel Core i5-8400 or Ryzen 5 1600, 16GB RAM, and a GTX 1060 or RX 580 to run the game. Recommended specs include an Intel Core i7-9700 or Ryzen 5 5500, paired with an RTX 2070 or RX 5700 XT. The action RPG launches July 24 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, and will be available day one on Xbox Game Pass.
Mario Kart Tour will see new content for the first time in years, thanks to Mario Kart World. GameSpot
After nearly two years of content hiatus, Mario Kart Tour is revving back onto the update track with a new in-game campaign, thanks to the release of Mario Kart World on Switch 2. Starting July 23, players can unlock mechanic-themed Mario and Luigi outfits along with four new karts, all part of a limited-time event lasting until August 6. The campaign falls under the Sunshine Tour banner—initially launched in 2023—which Nintendo had previously committed to recycling after announcing no new updates for the mobile racer. The revival coincides with Mario Kart World’s strong launch, where 79% of Switch 2 buyers bundled the game, signalling its significant pull in the Nintendo ecosystem.
FromSoftware is reportedly in advanced development on an unannounced project alongside The Duskbloods. EuroGamer
FromSoftware appears to be deep into development on a mysterious multiplatform game codenamed FMC, separate from The Duskbloods, which is exclusive to Switch 2. According to reports from mp1st and VGC, the project may launch as early as next year. While details remain speculative, the codename pattern suggests possible ties to either the Dark Souls or Armored Core series—especially given FromSoftware’s history of using similar abbreviations (e.g., FNR for Armored Core 6).
Netflix greenlights the Assassin's Creed series: ‘It’s about power, violence, sex and greed’. VG Chronicles
Netflix has officially greenlit a live-action Assassin’s Creed series, nearly five years after its initial announcement. Emmy-nominated producers Roberto Patino (Westworld) and David Wiener (Halo) will helm the project, which is described as a high-octane thriller exploring the secret war between two factions—one seeking control, the other fighting for free will. The show will span pivotal historical events and delve into themes of identity, destiny, and human connection, with creators emphasising its focus on power, violence, sex, greed, and vengeance. This marks the first live-action series under Netflix’s partnership with Ubisoft, with more adaptations potentially on the horizon.
Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road has been delayed again and it is now releasing on November 13. RPG Site
Level-5 has officially delayed Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road to November 13, 2025, citing the unexpectedly large volume of content and the need for more time to complete voice recording, multi-language localisation, and other final development processes. The game was initially set to launch on August 21 across all major platforms, including PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Despite the setback, pre-orders are now live, and the studio has also revealed the ending theme and game editions. Level-5 apologised to fans for the delay and reiterated its commitment to delivering the highest possible quality.
Genshin Impact version 5.8 update ‘Sunspray Summer Resort’ launches July 30. Gematsu
Genshin Impact’s version 5.8 update, Sunspray Summer Resort, launches July 30 and introduces a vibrant new permanent map: Easybreeze Holiday Resort, located off Natlan’s western coast. This tropical zone brings a wave of seasonal mini-games, exploration mechanics, and story content, including the debut of Ineffa, a 5-star Electro polearm user from the mysterious Nod-Krai region. Players can glide over water, hover midair, and solve puzzles with help from Asha, the resort’s cheerful mascot. Beneath the sunny surface lies Mare Jivari, a dangerous area housing the immortal boss Bakunawa. Completing event challenges earns Sunspray Spirit, which can be exchanged for rewards like the exclusive claymore Flame-Forged Insight and Bennett’s new outfit, Adventures in Blazing Hue. The update also kicks off the Song of the Welkin Moon storyline, setting the stage for Nod-Krai’s full reveal.
Wuthering Waves Version 2.5 "Unfading Melody of Life" launches on July 24. RPG Site
Wuthering Waves version 2.5, titled Unfading Melody of Life, launches worldwide on July 24, bringing a wave of new content and system upgrades across all platforms—including full Steam Deck optimisation. The update introduces Phrolova, a new 5-star Havoc Resonator, alongside her signature weapon Lethean Elegy. Players will explore the Fabricatorium of the Deep, a mysterious underwater facility tied to the new main quests Dreamcatchers in the Secret Gardens and Rust, Sword and the Sun. Combat enhancements include new Echoes, a Phantom Echo boss, and the Dream of the Lost Sonata effect, which boosts Crit Rate and Echo Skill damage. Quality-of-life improvements like Echo auto-management, Sync Tuning, and expanded team presets aim to streamline gameplay. A suite of themed events—such as Phantasma Dreamland and Solaris Film Festival—rounds out the update, offering rewards and lore-rich experiences.
Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter character trailer – Agate Crosner. Gematsu
Falcom has unveiled the sixth character trailer for Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, spotlighting Agate Crosner, a senior Bracer known for his abrasive demeanour and formidable combat skills. Nicknamed the “Heavy Blade” for wielding an enormous sword, Agate often clashes with junior Bracers Estelle and Joshua due to his blunt attitude, yet remains deeply respected for his reliability and strength. The trailer hints at his solo investigation across the Liberl Kingdom, suggesting a personal mission tied to the game’s broader narrative. The remastered RPG launches worldwide on September 19 for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Ubisoft CEO responds to the Stop Killing Games petition, stating the publisher is 'working on' improving its approach to end-of-life support, but that 'nothing is eternal'. PCGamer
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot responded to the growing Stop Killing Games movement during a recent shareholders meeting, acknowledging the industry's challenges with preserving online games after support ends. He emphasised that while Ubisoft provides extensive support and transparency about game lifespans, maintaining services indefinitely is not feasible, stating, “nothing is eternal.” The controversy stems from Ubisoft’s shutdown of The Crew, which sparked the petition advocating for end-of-life plans that allow games to remain playable without ongoing support. Guillemot defended Ubisoft’s practices, noting that players are forewarned about potential discontinuations and that Ubisoft offered The Crew 2 at a steep discount as a transitional option.
Leaked image suggests the next Battlefield game will be called Battlefield 6 – and the reveal event is coming very soon. EuroGamer
EA is gearing up for a major reveal of Battlefield 6, with a three-day event kicking off on July 29 and culminating in a full public showcase on July 312. The title was seemingly confirmed by a leaked promotional case sent to content creators, featuring branding for classic modes like Conquest, Rush, and Breakthrough3. According to insider Rivalxfactor, the event will include developer interviews, hands-on gameplay sessions, and a likely announcement of an open beta4. The game is set in a modern-day setting and aims to return to traditional classes and focused map design, addressing criticisms of Battlefield 2042. While EA has yet to confirm all details officially, the reveal is expected to be a pivotal moment for the franchise, which is targeting a release before March 2026.
Ousted Subnautica 2 devs' lawsuit demands full $250 million payout and creative control. GameSpot
The legal battle between Unknown Worlds’ ousted founders and parent company Krafton has escalated, with a newly filed lawsuit demanding $250 million in payouts and the return of creative control over Subnautica 2. The complaint alleges Krafton deliberately sabotaged the game’s early-access launch by withholding pre-release support and firing the studio’s leadership without cause—actions that would prevent the studio from hitting performance targets tied to the earn-out bonus. Krafton denies the claims, arguing the game wasn’t ready and that its decisions were made to protect the franchise’s reputation. With leaked documents and mounting public scrutiny, the case could take years to resolve, leaving Subnautica 2’s future clouded by controversy.
Pokémon Presents tease revealed as DJ Pikachu show. VG Chronicles
The Pokémon Company has revealed that the mysterious teaser image of Pikachu at a DJ booth was promoting a special pre-show event titled “Everyone Gather! DJ Pikachu Live”, set to stream an hour before the upcoming Pokémon Presents broadcast on July 22. While the main event’s content remains under wraps, fans are anticipating updates on Pokémon Legends Z-A, which is slated for release later this year. With Pokémon’s 30th anniversary approaching in 2026, speculation is swirling around a potential reveal of the franchise’s 10th generation, though nothing has been confirmed. The DJ Pikachu pre-show adds a playful twist to the buildup, fueling theories about music-themed content or rhythm game spin-offs.
Warframe’s next major narrative chapter The Old Peace launches this year, Android closed beta coming fall 2025. RPG Site
Warframe’s next major update, The Old Peace, launches later this year, diving deep into a forgotten era of fragile diplomacy between the Orokin and Sentients. Revealed during TennoCon 2025, the cinematic quest introduces a remastered Operator, a new enemy faction, and a Sentient childhood friend named Adis. It’s paired with The Devil’s Triad, a side story featuring three new characters—including the devil-themed Warframe Uriel and two Protoframes for Harrow and Wisp. The update also brings the Tauron Focus expansion, a haunting original song, and sets the stage for 2026’s Tau chapter. Meanwhile, Warframe’s Android closed beta arrives this fall alongside a new mod tutorial quest, The Teacher, and Caliban Prime Access.
"The age of gameplay mechanics has already passed," says Ico, Shadow of the Colossus director. EuroGamer
Fumito Ueda, director of ICO and Shadow of the Colossus, believes the era of constantly inventing new gameplay mechanics is over. In a conversation with To a T creator Keita Takahashi, Ueda praised the game for focusing on story and aesthetics rather than novel mechanics. He argued that modern games should refine existing systems and prioritise atmosphere and emotional resonance. Ueda’s comments reflect a broader shift toward narrative-driven experiences, suggesting that innovation now lies in presentation and meaning rather than control schemes.
Ubisoft confirms it is working on a new Ghost Recon game, and it sure looks like it'll be a live service affair. PCGamer
Ubisoft has officially confirmed development of a new Ghost Recon title—the first since 2019’s Breakpoint. During a recent shareholder meeting, CEO Yves Guillemot cited Rainbow Six Siege as a model for success and emphasised Ubisoft’s strategy to expand its live service offerings. CFO Frederick Duguet later described the upcoming Ghost Recon as a “first-person-shooter-type game,” suggesting a major shift from the franchise’s traditional third-person format2. While details remain scarce, the project—reportedly codenamed Project Ovr—is expected to enter alpha testing later this year, with a full release targeted for late 2026
Biggest releases this week
