Patch Notes #41 - weekly gaming digest
Welcome to the 41st edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.
This edition will cover the week from September 15 to September 21.
What caught my attention this week
Silksong has sold more than 3.2 million copies on Steam in less than 2 weeks, industry analyst firm estimates. PCGamer
Hollow Knight: Silksong has sold over 3.2 million copies on Steam in less than two weeks, with an estimated 1.5 million additional downloads via Xbox Game Pass. The game quickly achieved one of the highest all-time peak player counts on Steam, drawing over 500,000 concurrent players within its first four hours. Its success is primarily fueled by franchise loyalty, with 79% of players having played the original Hollow Knight, whose Steam sales exceed 11.4 million copies.
Compared to other Metroidvanias released this year, Silksong’s performance is striking, outselling the next-best title, Sega’s Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, by over 69 times. Despite the hype and strong early numbers, analysts note that this level of success may not be a helpful benchmark for other game launches.
TLDR
The Borderlands 4 PC performance fiasco, explained
GTA 6 to have "largest game launch in history," Rockstar says
Sony lays out plans for AI use in gaming going forward
Digital sales on PlayStation make up a huge portion of Sony's gaming revenue, new report says
Borderlands 4 boss calls people "4K stubborn," disputes reports of performance issues
Insomniac’s Wolverine is reportedly coming next year, followed by a Venom spin-off
Clovers interview: Kamiya and Koyama talk Okami 2, industry layoffs, and a potential future with Capcom
Battlefield 6’s tech lead says optimizing for Xbox Series S ‘made the whole game more stable’
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 tops 4.4 million copies sold | News-in-brief
Hollow Knight: Silksong player melts its hardest bosses with an endless fountain of tools: 'I think I unlocked easy mode'
Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter teaser trailer
Hades 2 exiting early access on September 25, 2025
Valve no longer permits games with "mature themes" to release in early access
Palworld will leave early access in 2026 with a ‘massive update’ planned for version 1.0
Sega resurrects its old ‘blast processing’ Genesis TV ad to fire shots at Mario Kart World
Kamiya says Xbox’s canceled Scalebound ‘could’ve been different’ with a Japanese publisher
Kamiya says ‘perplexing’ fan response to Bayonetta 3 impacted how he is approaching his Okami sequel
Blue Protocol: Star Resonance launches on October 9
Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of Awaji expansion is now available
Sony fires Ghost of Yotei artist after posts joking about Charlie Kirk killing
Sonic Racing keeps throwing messy potshots at Mario Kart World
Darrell Gallagher leaves Xbox following The Initiative’s closure
As PlayStation physical game sales drop, it's no wonder Sony is pushing digital-only consoles
WWE 2K25’s Attitude Era DLC pack arrives today, along with an extra paid expansion adding Goldberg and Nikki Bella
‘It’s been too long, Sam Fisher’: Netflix reveals the full season 1 trailer for Splinter Cell: Deathwatch
The first official Silent Hill F review is in, and it’s positive
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake is reportedly adding extra content and RPG mechanics, aiming for a March release
Sega’s next Yakuza game reportedly leaked on Like a Dragon website
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers deluxe edition expansion and free cosmetics for all players are now available
Kaiju No. 8 the game launches on October 1 for PC Steam
Star Trek Online Unleashed update launches on September 23, 2025
Koei Tecmo Tokyo Game Show 2025 booth will feature Nioh 3 and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Founders of Subnautica 2 studio Unknown Worlds accuse parent company Krafton of "changing story mid-litigation"
Yakuza Kiwami 3 mention spotted on series official website
Dragon Quest Smash/Grow launches in 2026, closed beta test set for October 14 to 21
Marvel Cosmic Invasion adds Black Panther, Cosmic Ghost Rider
New Elder Scrolls Online co-lead says studio 'really doesn't use' generative AI
Gearbox shares some funny Borderlands 4 opening weekend stats
We finally have our first look at Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, as early gameplay footage reportedly leaks
‘That claim is startling’: Tencent fires back at Sony’s lawsuit accusing it of ‘cloning’ Horizon with Light of Motiram
Disco Elysium spin-off studio renames game and pivots away from isometric gameplay
Sonic Racing Crossworlds review: a great alternative to Mario Kart’s new open-world focus
Two cult favourite Bandai Namco GBA games are coming to Switch Online next week
New screenshots for Dragon Quest VII Reimagined detail characters, visuals, combat, vocations, DLC, and more
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree is brilliant on Steam Deck, but what about Switch and Switch 2?
Treyarch co-founder sentenced to federal prison after flying drone into firefighting aircraft in January
Epic Games to allow Fortnite developers to sell in-game items
Cyberpunk 2 looks like it will include online multiplayer, according to job listing
Battlefield 6 resolution and frame rate targets for PS5, Xbox Series X|S revealed
Hollow Knight: Silksong devs admit it has "moments of steep difficulty" but also a "higher level of freedom" to avoid getting stonewalled
Chrono Trigger piano soundscape arrangement album announced for November release in Japan
Tokyo Game Show 2025 - list of expected RPG-related streams
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero DLC ‘Daima character pack 2’ launches September 24
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade showcases streamlined progression and more in new screenshots for Switch 2 and Xbox
Helldivers 2 ranks at no.4 on revenue charts for August 2025 following Xbox launch | Newzoo charts
Sonic Racing: Crossworlds’ final DLC racer is another classic video game character
Biggest news of the week
The Borderlands 4 PC performance fiasco, explained. Kotaku
Borderlands 4 launched to strong sales and positive reviews, but its PC performance has sparked heavy debate. Many players report that the game struggles even on high-end hardware unless Nvidia’s DLSS and frame generation are enabled, raising concerns that developers are relying too much on these tools instead of proper optimization. Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford defended the game, saying it was designed to “take advantage” of DLSS, but this upset PC gamers who expect top performance without upscaling. Despite patches and optimization guides, complaints continue, with outlets like Digital Foundry also criticizing its performance compared to other Unreal Engine 5 games. Pitchford has promised more updates, though many players remain frustrated that powerful PCs can’t run the game smoothly without extra tech support.
GTA 6 to have "largest game launch in history," Rockstar says. GameSpot
(Note: water is wet)
GTA 6 is set to launch on May 26, 2026, and Rockstar has described it as potentially the “largest game launch in history.” A now-edited job ad revealed Rockstar is preparing its online services to handle millions of players, signalling expectations of record-breaking demand. Analysts predict the game could sell up to 40 million units in its first year, though concerns remain about server stability at launch. It’s unclear if GTA 6 will include an online mode immediately, as Rockstar previously staggered online launches for GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption II. The game is confirmed for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, set in Vice City, and follows protagonists Jason and Lucia.
Sony lays out plans for AI use in gaming going forward. GameSpot
Sony outlined its approach to AI in gaming, saying it should support creativity rather than replace it. The company’s Enterprise LLM has been adopted by over 50,000 employees across 210 teams, with more than 300 AI projects tested and 50 integrated into regular workflows. Sony is also setting ethical guidelines, focusing on privacy, legality, and protecting creators’ work, while applying AI to areas like audio restoration and PS5 upscaling. Industry figures like Masahiro Sakurai believe AI is necessary to speed up game development, though actors and unions remain concerned about exploitation and job loss. Microsoft has likewise acknowledged that AI’s rise will inevitably result in some displaced jobs.
Digital sales on PlayStation make up a huge portion of Sony’s gaming revenue, new report says. GameSpot
Sony’s 2025 corporate report shows that digital software and add-on content drove 49% of PlayStation’s revenue in 2024, with DLC alone making up 29%. Hardware accounted for 24%, while network services contributed 14%. Although listed at just 3%, physical sales were actually much higher—about 24% of all PlayStation game sales, or 73 million copies—because Sony only counts first-party revenue in that category. The report also highlights rising engagement, with players spending 51 billion hours in 2024 and average lifetime console spend reaching $846, well above the PS4. Sony further outlined plans to expand AI use for copyright enforcement and upscaling, while also pushing PlayStation IP into film and TV, including Naughty Dog’s Intergalatic: The Heretic Prophet.
Borderlands 4 boss calls people "4K stubborn," disputes reports of performance issues. GameSpot
Borderlands 4 has received mixed reactions, with many players reporting bugs and poor frame rates despite positive critical reviews. Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford pushed back on these complaints, arguing that many stem from players trying to run the game at 4K on older hardware, calling them “4K stubborn.” He suggested 1440p as a better option for most users and emphasized that Borderlands 4 is a “premium game made for premium gamers.” While Gearbox released troubleshooting guides and optimization tips, outlets like PC Gamer and Digital Foundry also reported inconsistent performance even on high-end systems, highlighting ongoing concerns about the game’s PC optimization.
Insomniac’s Wolverine is reportedly coming next year, followed by a Venom spin-off. VG Chronicles
Insomniac’s Wolverine, first announced in 2021, is reportedly set for a 2026 release as a standalone title in the Spider-Man universe. Interest in the game grew after leaks from the Insomniac hack revealed builds and documents. A Venom spin-off is also planned to follow, supported by Spider-Man 2’s playable Venom segment and fan demand. Insomniac’s last major release, Spider-Man 2, was highly praised but will not receive additional story content after its cancelled DLC.
Clovers interview: Kamiya and Koyama talk Okami 2, industry layoffs, and a potential future with Capcom. VG Chronicles
Hideki Kamiya and Kento Koyama discussed the growth of their new studio, CLOVERS, which is developing Okami 2 in partnership with Capcom. The studio, funded with their own capital, has expanded steadily in Osaka and Tokyo, hiring mostly experienced staff with aligned creative mindsets, and collaborating with M-Two and Machine Head Works to strengthen development. Kamiya highlighted the emotional impact and industry recognition from The Game Awards announcement, emphasizing Capcom’s support without financial involvement. Both stressed the importance of protecting their team amid industry layoffs, valuing a Japanese development culture that trusts and nurtures creative innovation. Looking ahead, CLOVERS aims to scale up, potentially working on future Okami titles, new IPs with other publishers, or self-publishing, while maintaining a focus on creativity and high-quality game design.
Battlefield 6’s tech lead says optimizing for Xbox Series S ‘made the whole game more stable’. VG Chronicles
Battlefield 6’s technical lead, Christian Buhl, explained that optimizing the game for the memory-limited Xbox Series S improved overall stability and performance. The team faced crashes on Series S during development but resolved memory issues through extensive testing and optimization. As a result, the game now runs smoothly at 60fps on the console. EA has revealed maps, modes, and player challenges for the full release on October 10, with early previews praising satisfying gunplay and dynamic destruction.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 tops 4.4 million copies sold | News-In-Brief. GamesIndustry
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has surpassed 4.4 million copies sold since its April debut, exceeding the previously reported 3.3 million figure. Helldivers 2’s Xbox launch drove it to No.4 on Newzoo’s revenue chart for August 2025 and No.13 in overall player engagement, aided by a Halo collaboration. Battlefield 6 debuted at No.3 on engagement charts despite only eight days of early access and beta, attracting over 520,000 Steam players, while Battlefield 2042 saw a spike in activity from content updates and discounts. Other notable entries include Mafia: The Old Country at No.6 in revenue, and Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater entering the Top 20. Newzoo’s August charts show Fortnite, Madden NFL 26, and Counter-Strike 2 & Go leading revenue, with Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Battlefield 6 topping monthly active user rankings.
Hollow Knight: Silksong player melts its hardest bosses with an endless fountain of tools: 'I think I unlocked easy mode'. PCGamer
In Hollow Knight: Silksong, YouTuber Syrobe demonstrated a late-game build that allows endless use of powerful tools, effectively making combat feel like “easy mode.” The key is the Architect Crest, which repairs tools mid-combat, letting players spam abilities without resting. Syrobe combines this with tools like Tacks, Silkshot, Voltvessels, Pollip Pouch, and Quick Sling to deal massive damage, particularly against bosses. With this setup, enemies and bosses can be defeated almost instantly, highlighting the build’s overwhelming power. The full setup requires progressing into Act 2 and completing specific quests and challenges to acquire all components.
Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter teaser trailer. Gematsu
The Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter remake, launching September 19 on PS5, Switch 2, Switch, and PC, contains a teaser trailer for the unannounced sequel, likely titled Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter. Early players discovered the teaser, signaling the upcoming remake of The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky SC.
Hades 2 exiting early access on September 25, 2025. GamesIndustry
Hades 2 will exit early access on September 25, 2025, as a timed console exclusive for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. A physical edition launching on November 20 will retail for $50, while the digital version on Switch and PC costs $30 and includes a free upgrade pack. The game supports cross-saves between Switch, Switch 2, Steam, and Epic Games Store, with early access players able to transfer their PC save data. Developed over four and a half years, Hades 2 is Supergiant Games’ first-ever sequel and the studio’s largest game to date. A release on PlayStation and Xbox is expected around August 2026, following the original game’s timeline.
Valve no longer permits games with "mature themes" to release in early access. GamesIndustry
Valve has reportedly stopped allowing games with "mature themes" to release in Early Access. Developer Heavy Hearts was rejected last month and told to wait until it could launch fully. The company hasn’t clarified what qualifies as “mature themes,” but this follows broader content moderation trends on platforms like Steam and itch.io. Heavy Hearts remains available on itch.io but is de-indexed from search, making promotion difficult. Valve has not yet commented publicly.
Palworld will leave Early Access in 2026 with a ‘massive update’ planned for version 1.0. VG Chronicles
Palworld will leave Early Access in 2026 with a major version 1.0 update. Content updates will be “a little quiet” for the rest of 2025 as Pocketpair focuses on fixing “quirks and jank.” The game has already received five major updates, including raids, Sakurajima island, Feybreak, crossplay, and a Terraria collaboration. The Winter update will be smaller, but Palworld 1.0 will include a massive amount of content. Since its Early Access release, Palworld has attracted over 32 million players, and Pocketpair has made changes due to an ongoing lawsuit from Nintendo.
Sega resurrects its old ‘blast processing’ Genesis TV ad to fire shots at Mario Kart World. VG Chronicles
Sega has released a new ad for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds that references its 1990s “blast processing” rivalry with Nintendo. The ad shows a blurred version of Mario Kart World and highlights Sonic Racing as a faster, more traditional karting game. It also critiques Mario Kart World’s open-world focus, contrasting it with CrossWorlds’ straightforward selection of cups and separate circuits. The ad ends with the slogan “welcome to the next level” and a racer shouting “Sega,” echoing the original campaign. VGC suggests that CrossWorlds could appeal to players looking for a no-nonsense alternative to Nintendo’s new approach.
Kamiya says Xbox’s canceled Scalebound ‘could’ve been different’ with a Japanese publisher. VG Chronicles
Hideki Kamiya said Xbox’s canceled Scalebound could have gone differently with a Japanese publisher due to cultural differences in game development. He explained that Japanese publishers are more open to new gameplay ideas, while Western publishers favor tried-and-tested concepts. Scalebound involved controlling both a human and a dragon, and because there was no clear reference for this gameplay, some had doubts. Kamiya said a Japanese publisher might have given more freedom to experiment, though it doesn’t mean the game would definitely have been completed or released. He added that the failure of Scalebound was ultimately the responsibility of PlatinumGames, including himself.
Kamiya says ‘perplexing’ fan response to Bayonetta 3 impacted how he is approaching his Okami sequel. VG Chronicles
Hideki Kamiya said the fan response to the Bayonetta sequels influenced how he is approaching Okami 2. He explained that as each Bayonetta game was released, fans’ expectations of the series grew stronger, creating a gap between what PlatinumGames wanted and what fans expected. Kamiya described the reaction to Bayonetta 3 as “perplexing” and said it made him think more deeply about how to direct a sequel. He emphasized that developing Okami 2 is a different challenge from creating an original game but is “extremely fun.” Kamiya also noted that he left PlatinumGames in 2023 and expressed disappointment that he won’t be able to complete his full vision for the Bayonetta saga.
Blue Protocol: Star Resonance launches on October 9. RPG Site
Blue Protocol: Star Resonance will officially launch in North America, South America, and Europe on October 9, 2025, for iOS, Android, and PC (Epic Games Store, Steam). The game supports cross-platform play with synchronized progression and offers an anime-inspired MMORPG experience set in the world of Regnus. The recent closed beta attracted over 29,000 players, and feedback from the test is being used to improve the game ahead of launch. Players with a Crunchyroll Membership will receive exclusive in-game rewards, including avatar frames and mount skins. The game features anime-styled visuals, a dynamic combat system, open-world exploration, deep character customization, and multiplayer social experiences.
Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of Awaji expansion is now available. RPG Site
The Assassin's Creed Shadows: Claws of Awaji expansion is now available worldwide on consoles and PC. Originally a pre-order bonus, it is also offered as a $25 standalone DLC and included in Ubisoft+. Developed by Ubisoft Bordeaux, the expansion adds over 10 hours of new content, introducing a new region, story, enemies, and bosses, continuing the adventures of Naoe and Yasuke. Players gain new skills, weapons, armor, and gear, including the Bo Staff, which can carry over to the main game. The expansion follows post-launch support updates, including New Game+, Nightmare difficulty, and quality-of-life improvements.
Sony fires Ghost of Yotei artist after posts joking about Charlie Kirk killing. Game Developer
Senior artist Drew Harrison was fired from Sony subsidiary Sucker Punch Productions after posting jokes on Bluesky about the killing of Charlie Kirk. Harrison, who worked at the studio for 10 years, received online harassment and pressure from social media users. Her posts compared Kirk’s killer to another individual, sparking controversy. It is unknown if she was given a chance to clarify or remove her posts before the termination. Employment lawyers noted that companies often prioritize employee safety in such situations.
Sonic Racing keeps throwing messy potshots at Mario Kart World. Polygon
Sega’s marketing for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is taking direct shots at Mario Kart World, reviving its old “Sega does what Nintendon’t” rivalry. The latest ad uses pixelated Mario Kart footage to claim Nintendo’s racer doesn’t fully use its open-world design. It highlights CrossWorlds’ features like full vehicle customization, cross-platform multiplayer, and the option to freely roam. The commercial also mirrors a classic Sega Genesis ad that once mocked Nintendo’s Super Mario Kart. CrossWorlds launches on September 25 across multiple platforms, though Switch players can’t access early play through pre-orders.
Darrell Gallagher leaves Xbox following The Initiative’s closure. GamesIndustry
Darrell Gallagher, former head of The Initiative, has left Xbox after the studio’s closure earlier this year. In a LinkedIn post, he praised the team’s efforts on the canceled Perfect Dark reboot and expressed gratitude to Xbox, partners, and the community. Gallagher founded The Initiative in 2018 under Xbox Game Studios after leaving Activision Blizzard, with Perfect Dark announced in 2020 alongside Crystal Dynamics. Microsoft shut down the studio in July 2025 during mass layoffs, which also canceled Rare’s Everwild and a ZeniMax project. Reports suggest Take-Two was in talks to fund Perfect Dark, but negotiations collapsed over ownership disputes.
As PlayStation physical game sales drop, it's no wonder Sony is pushing digital-only consoles. EuroGamer
Sony’s latest corporate report shows physical PlayStation game sales dropped to just 3% of total revenue in 2024, down from 6% in 2020. Out of ¥4,670bn ($31.77bn) in gaming sales, roughly $953m came from physical software, while digital sales and add-on content dominated, with DLC alone accounting for 29%. Hardware contributed 24% of revenue, up from 19% in 2020, partly due to rising console prices. Sony highlighted successes like Helldivers 2, Destiny 2, Gran Turismo, and MLB The Show, while noting fewer first-party physical releases such as Astro Bot likely impacted disc sales. The trend mirrors Nintendo’s challenges, as growing game sizes push the industry further toward digital distribution.
WWE 2K25’s Attitude Era DLC pack arrives today, along with an extra paid expansion adding Goldberg and Nikki Bella. VG Chronicles
The Attitude Era Superstars Pack, the fourth DLC for WWE 2K25, is out now and adds Road Dogg Jesse James, Badd Ass Billy Gunn, Mark Henry, D’Lo Brown, and Victoria, along with MyFaction cards. It can be purchased separately or through the Season Pass. Alongside it, a paid Hall of Legends expansion has been released in The Island mode, unlocking Goldberg and Nikki Bella for 50,000 VC. Players without VC must purchase a 67,500 VC currency pack for $19.99 / £17.99 to access this content. This follows three earlier DLC packs, with a fifth and final pack, Saturday Night’s Main Event, set to launch in November.
‘It’s been too long, Sam Fisher’: Netflix reveals the full Season 1 trailer for Splinter Cell: Deathwatch. VG Chronicles
Netflix has unveiled the full trailer for its upcoming animated series Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, premiering on October 14. The show stars Liev Schreiber as Sam Fisher, with Derek Kolstad, creator of John Wick, serving as lead writer and executive producer. Produced by Ubisoft Film & Television, the cast also includes Janet Varney, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, and Joel Oulette. Meanwhile, Ubisoft is developing a remake of the original 2002 Splinter Cell using the Snowdrop engine, though past attempts at a live-action film adaptation have failed. An earlier radio drama, Splinter Cell: Firewall, aired in 2022.
The first official Silent Hill F review is in, and it’s positive. VG Chronicles
Famitsu has published the first review of Silent Hill F, giving it a positive score of 36/40, with each of its four reviewers rating it 9 out of 10. The review praised the game’s visuals, highlighting its rural 1960s Japanese setting and describing the graphics as both grotesque and breathtaking. Its story was commended for mysterious developments and multiple endings, with each playthrough lasting around 12–13 hours. Combat was also well-received, particularly the thrill of dodging counterattacks, though negatives included confusing controls, terrain issues, and the repetitive search for “offerings.” Developed by NeoBards Entertainment and written by Ryūkishi07, the game launches September 25 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake is reportedly adding extra content and RPG mechanics, aiming for a March release. VG Chronicles
The rumored Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake is reportedly in development, with Ubisoft Singapore leading the project and support from other studios. According to Jeux Vidéo Magazine, the game is aiming for a March 2026 release but may face delays. The remake will add around four hours of new content, including restored material involving Mary Read, while removing some of the original present-day sections. It’s said to introduce RPG-style mechanics for combat, loot, and equipment, expand smaller islands, and feature seamless sailing without loading times. Ubisoft has yet to officially confirm the remake’s existence.
Sega’s next Yakuza game reportedly leaked on Like A Dragon website. VG Chronicles
An apparent leak on Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s website briefly listed Yakuza Kiwami 3, suggesting Sega’s next Like A Dragon game. The listing, which also appeared in Google results, has since been removed. Its timing comes just a week before the studio’s annual Summit on September 24, where new Like A Dragon titles are expected to be revealed. The first two Yakuza Kiwami remakes were released in 2016 and 2017 and are set to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 later this year. The Summit may also share updates on Stranger Than Heaven, previously revealed as Project Century.
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Deluxe Edition Expansion and free cosmetics for all players are now available. RPG Site
Publisher 505 Games and developer Leenzee have announced the Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Deluxe Edition Expansion, though its planned September 17 release has been delayed. The expansion will be available for existing and future owners of the game, as well as those who purchase the Deluxe Upgrade Pack. It introduces two new costumes (Forged Iron and Radiant) and two new weapons (Hooked Blade Spear and Blazing Nightlotus), with more content promised in upcoming updates. All players, regardless of edition, will also receive two free headgear items: the Bo Sorcerer’s Crown and the Ming Army Helmet. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is available now on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Kaiju No. 8 The Game launches on October 1 for PC Steam. RPG Site
Akatsuki Games has announced that Kaiju No. 8 The Game, a turn-based RPG based on the manga and anime, will launch on PC (Steam) on October 1, following its mobile release. The free-to-play game features three story modes—Main Story, Memories, and Character Stories—offering original storylines, iconic moments, and character interactions. Players assemble squads of Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force officers to battle massive kaiju in turn-based combat, utilizing unique skills, Ultimates, and coordinated support. The game also includes character development systems, equipment crafting, and strategic squad-building elements. The mobile release has already surpassed three million downloads and topped App Store charts in several categories.
Star Trek Online Unleashed update launches on September 23, 2025. RPG Site
Star Trek Online will receive its next major free update, "Unleashed," on September 23, 2025 for PC, with console editions following on November 11, 2025. The update continues the main story with a new campaign episode, "Best Laid Plans," where players join Hugh and Seven of Nine to capture a leader of the multiversal Aetherians. Both characters are voiced by their original Star Trek actors, Jonathan del Arco and Jeri Ryan. Additionally, a new cooperative Task Force Operation called "Shattered Peace" lets players face waves of enemies in space combat at Khitomer HQ. Star Trek Online is available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
Koei Tecmo Tokyo Game Show 2025 booth will feature Nioh 3 and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. RPG Site
Koei Tecmo’s Tokyo Game Show 2025 booth will feature playable demos for Nioh 3, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and Ninja Gaiden 4. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment for Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for release this Winter, while Nioh 3 will launch in Early 2026 on PS5 and PC. The Nioh 3 demo includes Heian Era field exploration and a Boss Battle against Takeda Shingen, with a special T-shirt reward for winning players. The Hyrule Warriors demo allows players to try three characters: Zelda, King Rauru, and Mineru, with a clear file of the game’s key art given as a reward. Koei Tecmo has also outlined a detailed stream schedule for the event, including showcases for other series like Atelier, Dynasty Warriors, and the Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake.
Founders of Subnautica 2 studio Unknown Worlds accuse parent company Krafton of "changing story mid-litigation". GamesIndustry
The founders and former leadership of Subnautica 2 developer Unknown Worlds have blocked Krafton’s request for a court-ordered protective order, accusing the publisher of changing its rationale for firing them during litigation. The legal dispute concerns a $250 million bonus payout tied to revenue targets for the 2025 Early Access release of Subnautica 2, which Unknown Worlds claims Krafton tried to avoid paying by delaying the game. Krafton argued the founders threatened to self-publish and mishandled company files, while the founders assert Krafton later shifted its reasoning to claim the terminations were due to file backups they were entitled to access. The court dismissed Krafton’s forensic inspection request and protective order motion, calling the request unnecessary. Both parties are now expected to meet and confer to continue resolving the case.
Yakuza Kiwami 3 mention spotted on series official website. Gematsu
The official Japanese website for the Yakuza / Like a Dragon series briefly listed a news category for the unannounced Yakuza Kiwami 3, which was quickly removed. Despite this, users captured the listing and it still appears in Google’s meta description. SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio are set to host RGG Summit 2025 on September 23, where the title may be officially revealed.
Dragon Quest Smash/Grow launches in 2026, closed beta test set for October 14 to 21. Gematsu
Dragon Quest Smash/Grow, a newly announced mobile game in the Dragon Quest series, will launch worldwide for iOS and Android in 2026. A closed beta test will run from October 14 to 21, with pre-registration available via the official website. From September 19 to 26, a giveaway will be held on the game’s official Twitter and Facebook pages with Dragon Quest-themed prizes.
MARVEL Cosmic Invasion adds Black Panther, Cosmic Ghost Rider. Gematsu
MARVEL Cosmic Invasion, an arcade-style beat ’em up from Dotemu and Tribute Games, adds Black Panther and Cosmic Ghost Rider as playable characters, joining a roster that includes Captain America, Wolverine, Spider-Man, and others. Players control teams of two, swapping between them mid-fight using the Cosmic Swap system, battling across Marvel locales against Annihilus and the Annihilation Wave. Featuring hand-drawn animations, full voice acting, accessibility options, and four-player co-op (local and online with cross-play), the game releases in 2025 on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series, Xbox One, Switch, and PC via Steam.
New Elder Scrolls Online co-lead says studio 'really doesn't use' generative AI. Game Developer
ZeniMax Online Studios co-lead Rich Lambert said the team "doesn't really use" generative AI, aside from minor tasks like meeting summaries and organizing his inbox, despite Microsoft’s AI mandate for its subsidiaries. Lambert and Nick Giacomini noted that AI adoption remains low at ZeniMax and other Xbox-owned studios, contrasting with reports of King using AI amid layoffs, though internal AI use there is reportedly minimal. Microsoft aims for near-100% daily AI usage across first-party teams, but some developers, including those at Compulsion Games, emphasize handcrafted game design over AI integration.
Gearbox shares some funny Borderlands 4 opening weekend stats. GameSpot
Gearbox Studios shared some amusing stats from Borderlands 4’s opening weekend, revealing player behavior and loot trends. Players looted 14,814,296 items from red chests, 1,811,970 from boomboxes, beer coolers, and grills, and 1,530,794 from outhouses, surpassing trashcan loot at 487,585 items. In terms of fatalities, 4,563,416 players died from grenades, 2,034,399 by barrels, and 349,734 from toxic goo. Vehicles totaled 16,220,852 destroyed, with 62,718,658 boss battles attempted, 55,403,323 bosses defeated, and 16,220,852 failed boss encounters. Borderlands 4 is available on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, with a Switch 2 release on October 3, while Gearbox addresses some PC performance issues and plans a PS5 Pro patch.
We finally have our first look at Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, as early gameplay footage reportedly leaks. TheGamer
Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, originally planned for 2025 but delayed to 2026, has its first early gameplay footage reportedly leaked online. The footage, claimed to come from a developer and based on a 2022–2023 build, mainly shows Black Panther in combat, highlighting a movement-heavy fighting style. Captain America is also said to be playable, though he does not appear in the leaked footage. The rough nature of the leak means it may not represent the final game. Official gameplay reveals from Skydance New Media are still expected, possibly at an upcoming PlayStation State of Play or The Game Awards.
‘That claim is startling’: Tencent fires back at Sony’s lawsuit accusing it of ‘cloning’ Horizon with Light of Motiram. VG Chronicles
Tencent has responded to Sony’s lawsuit claiming its upcoming game Light of Motiram is a “slavish clone” of the Horizon series. Tencent calls the claims “startling” and argues that Sony is attempting to monopolize common genre conventions rather than protect original intellectual property. The company points out that Horizon itself borrowed elements from earlier games like Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, and that many other games share similar post-apocalyptic settings, robotic creatures, and tribal groups. Tencent maintains that Sony’s lawsuit is not about preventing piracy or plagiarism but about claiming exclusive rights over familiar gameplay tropes. Light of Motiram, developed by Tencent’s Polaris Quest, features a young female protagonist in a post-apocalyptic world inhabited by mechanical animals.
Disco Elysium spin-off studio renames game and pivots away from isometric gameplay. VG Chronicles
Dark Math Games, a studio spun off from Disco Elysium developer ZA/UM, has renamed its spiritual follow-up from XXXNightshift to Tangerine Antarctic and shifted from isometric to third-person gameplay. The game is set at the World’s End ski village in British Antarctica, with most action taking place in the eponymous hotel, where players must solve mysterious murders. The 20-person team includes former Disco Elysium staff, and Tangerine Antarctic is described as a true detective RPG with unique companion dynamics. This move follows other ZA/UM alumni forming studios like Longdue Games and Red Info Ltd to develop spiritual successors. Meanwhile, ZA/UM itself is working on a new RPG, Elysium, featuring introspective, character-driven gameplay influenced by dice mechanics.
Sonic Racing CrossWorlds review: A great alternative to Mario Kart’s new open-world focus. VG Chronicles
Sonic Racing CrossWorlds delivers a traditional three-lap karting experience, offering 39 tracks, crossplay multiplayer, and heavy powersliding for a satisfying racing feel. Customisation through vehicles and Gadgets adds depth, while modes like Grand Prix, Time Trials, Race Park, and the Friendship system provide long-term engagement. Power-ups can feel underwhelming, and the game is more challenging for younger players. Monthly crossover content is planned to keep players engaged. Overall, it’s a polished alternative to Mario Kart World, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Two cult favourite Bandai Namco GBA games are coming to Switch Online next week. VG Chronicles
Next week, two cult-favorite Bandai Namco GBA games, Klonoa: Empire of Dreams and Mr Driller 2, will join the Switch Online GBA library on September 25, marking the first third-party games added to the app. Klonoa: Empire of Dreams is a side-scrolling platformer that fills the story gap between Klonoa and Klonoa 2, letting players use the Wind Ring to lift and throw enemies. Mr Driller 2 is a GBA port of the 2000 arcade game, where players dig underground by clearing colored blocks while managing their oxygen. With these additions, the Switch Online GBA library grows to 30 games in total. Access to GBA games requires the Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription.
New screenshots for Dragon Quest VII Reimagined detail characters, visuals, combat, vocations, DLC, and more. RPG Site
Dragon Quest VII Reimagined, a remake of the 2000 PlayStation game, will release on February 5, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, Switch, and PC. The game features hand-crafted 3D visuals for characters and environments, a reworked turn-based combat system with adjustable speed and auto-battle, and a vocation system allowing characters to master multiple roles with unique perks. Players travel between two worlds, collecting tablet fragments that unlock new locations, side stories, and challenging battles, while also enjoying mini-games like Lucky Panel. Three paid DLC packs will launch alongside the game, offering costumes, battle content, and useful items, and two special editions—Collector’s and Digital Deluxe—provide additional physical or digital bonuses. Early purchase, platform-exclusive, and Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake bonuses are available, including special costumes, items, and in-game enhancements.
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree is brilliant on Steam Deck, but what about Switch and Switch 2? RPG Site
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree is now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam). On Switch, the game is capped at 30fps with long load times and hitching, while Switch 2 improves stability and load times but retains the 30fps limit and shows input lag. The PC version is well-optimized, offering extensive graphics options, adjustable resolutions, and smooth performance on Steam Deck and ROG Ally, with recommended settings for both handheld and docked play. Load time tests show Switch 2 loads faster initially, but Steam Deck and ROG Ally provide quicker save and gameplay transitions. Overall, Steam Deck OLED delivers the best portable experience, followed by ROG Ally, while Switch 1 and Switch 2 via backward compatibility are less optimal.
Treyarch co-founder sentenced to federal prison after flying drone into firefighting aircraft in January. Kotaku
Treyarch co-founder Peter Tripp Akemann was sentenced to 14 days in federal prison and 30 days of home arrest after flying a drone into a firefighting aircraft in January, causing damage. He also faces $156,000 in fines and must complete 150 hours of community service. A leak suggests Yakuza 3 is receiving a remake, Yakuza Kiwami 3, though it has not been officially announced. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 may be coming to PS5 in November, likely with a limited physical release. Nvidia is investing $5 billion into Intel as part of a partnership to develop “Intel x86 RTX SOCs,” making Nvidia one of Intel’s largest shareholders.
Epic Games to allow Fortnite developers to sell in-game items. GamesIndustry
Starting December 2025, Fortnite creators can sell in-game digital items from their islands using Verse-based API and UEFN tools, earning roughly 74% of sales revenue until the end of 2026, which then drops to about 37% in 2027. Epic Games is updating the engagement payout formula to reward creators for acquiring new or returning players, focusing on island-specific retention and only counting paying users. A new Sponsored Row in Discover, launching November 24, 2025, allows creators to boost visibility, with revenue going into the engagement payout pool. Additional tools include campaign setup in the creator portal from November 17 and Fortnite Creator Communities, enabling creators to connect with players and share updates.
Cyberpunk 2 looks like it will include online multiplayer, according to job listing. GameSpot
A new job listing from CD Projekt Red suggests that Cyberpunk 2 may include online multiplayer, as it seeks a Lead Network Engineer to develop and optimize multiplayer systems, including matchmaking. CD Projekt Red previously considered multiplayer for Cyberpunk 2 and had earlier plans for a Cyberpunk 2077 multiplayer spin-off, which was canceled in 2022. The listing emphasizes designing and implementing network architecture and online systems, highlighting the studio’s focus on robust multiplayer features. While multiplayer seems planned, CD Projekt Red has not officially confirmed it, and development priorities, like The Witcher 4, could affect its implementation.
Battlefield 6 resolution and frame rate targets for PS5, Xbox Series X|S revealed. GameSpot
Battlefield 6 will feature Fidelity and Performance modes on PS5, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X, with Xbox Series S limited to a single maximum setting. Fidelity mode prioritizes resolution, reaching up to 1440p/60fps on Xbox Series X and PS5, and 2160p/60fps on PS5 Pro. Performance mode focuses on frame rate, targeting 80fps at lower resolutions, such as 1280p on Xbox Series X and PS5, and 1620p on PS5 Pro. The PC version can reach 4K/144fps or be uncapped for high-end rigs, and the game launches on October 10 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, with a battle royale mode also planned.
Hollow Knight: Silksong devs admit it has "moments of steep difficulty" but also a "higher level of freedom" to avoid getting stonewalled. EuroGamer
Team Cherry has addressed difficulty in Hollow Knight: Silksong, acknowledging that the game has "moments of steep difficulty" but offers players more freedom to explore and avoid getting stuck. Players can choose different paths, mitigate challenges through exploration or learning, and even circumvent tough encounters entirely. Hornet, being faster and more skillful than the original Knight, required enemies to be more intelligent and complex to match her abilities. The developers aimed to design the world and enemies so that players can progress without being stonewalled, while still preserving challenging platforming and boss encounters.
Chrono Trigger Piano Soundscape Arrangement album announced for November release in Japan. RPG Site
Square Enix will release the Chrono Trigger Piano Soundscape Arrangement album in Japan this November for 3,300 yen (plus tax). The album features 12 newly arranged piano tracks, focusing on the game’s character themes such as “Frog’s Theme” and “Robo’s Theme.” Other included pieces are “Wind Scene,” “Lavos’ Theme,” “Corridors of Time,” and “To Far Away Times.” The arrangements aim to offer a fresh interpretation while evoking nostalgic memories of the classic RPG.
Tokyo Game Show 2025 - List of expected RPG-related streams. RPG Site
Tokyo Game Show 2025 will run in late September with many RPG-related streams from major publishers. Sega will host the Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio Summit & Direct on September 24, potentially revealing several mystery games, while Capcom’s official program will feature Monster Hunter Wilds, Monster Hunter Stories 3, Onimusha: Way of the Sword, Pragmata, and Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection. Bandai Namco will spotlight Code Vein II, while Netmarble showcases The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin and Mongil. Koei Tecmo will present Nioh 3 and the Atelier series, Square Enix will cover Dragon Quest remakes, Octopath Traveler 0, Final Fantasy Tactics, and Final Fantasy XIV, and Konami will highlight new Suikoden projects. Additional showcases include Microsoft’s Xbox broadcast, Sony’s booth, 2K’s Borderlands 4 stream, and the PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct with world premieres.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO DLC ‘DAIMA Character Pack 2’ launches September 24. Gematsu
The “DAIMA Character Pack 2” DLC for Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO will launch on September 24, with early access starting September 21 at 3:00 p.m. PT / 6:00 p.m. ET. The pack adds six characters: Goku (Mini) Super Saiyan 4, Goku (Daima) Super Saiyan 4, Vegeta (Daima) Super Saiyan 3, Majin Duu, Third Eye Gomah, and Giant Gomah. A new update will be released alongside the DLC. Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO is currently available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC, and will arrive on Switch 2 and Switch on November 14.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade showcases streamlined progression and more in new screenshots for Switch 2 and Xbox. RPG Site
Square Enix has released new screenshots of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade for Switch 2 and Xbox ahead of its January 22, 2026 launch. These versions introduce a Streamlined Progression feature that allows players to focus on the story with options like always maxed HP/MP, 9999 damage, and maximum items (with some exceptions). Each setting can be toggled individually in the Options menu. The game is already available on PlayStation 5 and PC, with the Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S versions arriving early next year.
Helldivers 2 ranks at No.4 on revenue charts for August 2025 following Xbox launch. GamesIndustry
Helldivers 2 ranked No.4 on Newzoo’s August 2025 revenue charts following its Xbox launch and Halo collaboration, also placing No.13 on the overall engagement chart and No.11 on Xbox’s chart. Battlefield 6 debuted at No.3 on the engagement chart despite only eight days of early access and beta play, drawing over 520,000 Steam players, while Battlefield 2042 saw its highest monthly active users ever after content updates and discounts. Mafia: The Old Country entered at No.6 on revenue charts with most sales on PlayStation, and Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater reached the Top 20 despite a late-month launch. Fortnite, Madden NFL 26, and Counter-Strike 2 & Go led revenue, while Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Battlefield 6 topped engagement.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds’ final DLC racer is another classic video game character. VG Chronicles
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, launching on September 25, appears to have Mega Man as its sixth and final Season Pass DLC character, according to a flyer found in early physical copies. Sega had already confirmed DLC packs featuring Minecraft, SpongeBob, Pac-Man, Avatar Legends, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The flyer also hints that Sega’s Nights will be a free monthly crossover character, alongside previously announced additions like Hatsune Miku, Persona’s Joker, and Ichiban Kasuga. Reviews describe CrossWorlds as a strong, traditional alternative to Mario Kart, with fun mechanics but questions about long-term player engagement.
Biggest releases this week
