Patch Notes #14 - weekly gaming digest
Welcome to the 14th edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.
This edition will cover the week from March 10th to March 16th.
What caught my attention this week
BlizzCon is returning to the Anaheim Convention Center on September 12-13, 2026!
LETS FUCKING GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Biggest news of the week
Nintendo Switch 2 specs confirm wi-fi 6, suggest Amiibo Compatibilities. GameSpot
Early details about the Nintendo Switch 2, from FCC filings, confirm Wi-Fi 6 support, an upgrade from Wi-Fi 5. It has two USB-C ports for charging and NFC in the right Joy-Con, indicating Amiibo compatibility. Japanese patents suggest the new Joy-Cons will offer mouse-like features. A full reveal is set for a Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa hinted at ambitions to go "beyond video games," though specifics are unclear. These insights have raised anticipation for more console features.
Okami sequel doesn’t mean Clovers Studio will only focus on sequels in the future, Kamiya says. VG Chronicles
Hideki Kamiya, head of Clovers Studio, clarified that while the studio is working on an Okami sequel, it doesn't mean they'll focus solely on sequels in the future. Clovers Studio aims to work on projects they find interesting, whether they are sequels, spiritual successors, or entirely new IPs. Kamiya emphasized that the key factor is whether the project excites them, not necessarily if it's based on an existing series.
Epic Death Stranding 2 trailer reveals release date, new gameplay, and some serious Metal Gear vibes. IGN
Hideo Kojima unveiled a new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach at SXSW 2025, confirming the game's release date as June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5, with early access available on June 24 for premium editions. The trailer highlights cinematic moments, gameplay, and Neil, a Snake-like character played by Luca Marinelli, evoking strong Metal Gear vibes. It also features the Magellan Man, a tar-like creature reminiscent of Metal Gear Rex, enhancing the connection to Kojima's previous work. Standard, Digital Deluxe, and Collector's Editions are priced at $69.99, $79.99, and $229.99, respectively, with pre-orders starting on March 17.
Yes, you'll need a Microsoft account to play Forza Horizon 5 on PS5. EuroGamer
To play Forza Horizon 5 on PS5, players must link their Microsoft account with their PlayStation Network (PSN) account. This connection is permanent for the game and allows unlinking and relinking only to the same Microsoft account. A PlayStation Plus subscription is required for online multiplayer, but offline solo play is available without it.
The game will launch on PS5 on April 25, 2025, with additional platform content. However, preservation advocates are concerned that this requirement may hinder long-term accessibility.
Mark Cerny: FSR 4 for PS5 Pro is the "next evolution of PSSR". EuroGamer
Mark Cerny, Sony’s PlayStation architect, confirmed that AMD and Sony co-developed FSR 4, a machine learning (ML)-based upscaler, in "Project Amethyst." Built on AMD’s new RDNA 4 architecture, FSR 4 significantly improves upscaling quality and performance, rivaling Nvidia's DLSS. Sony plans to adopt a similar upscale for the PS5 Pro by 2026, enhancing its PSSR technology. The PS5 Pro’s ML hardware will support FSR 4 without significant redesigns, despite differences between RDNA 4 and the PS5 Pro.
Project Amethyst is a long-term collaboration to enhance game graphics through advanced ML architectures and future hardware designs. It showcases Sony’s vision of integrating cutting-edge technologies into its consoles, such as ray tracing and path tracing, promoting interoperability and boosting game development for PlayStation and PC platforms. The project’s benefits are expected to influence other ML-powered devices and innovations.
Split Fiction sales top one million in two days. Gematsu
Split Fiction, the latest cooperative action-adventure game from Hazelight, has surpassed one million units sold in just two days after its launch on March 6, 2025. The game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC.
In Split Fiction, players control Mio and Zoe, two writers trapped in their own stories. They must work together to escape, mastering various abilities and overcoming challenges across sci-fi and fantasy worlds. The game features split-screen cooperative gameplay, diverse mechanics, and a focus on the power of friendship.
The Xbox-branded handheld is planned for later this year. Report. GameSpot
A report indicates an official Xbox-branded handheld, codenamed Kennan, might launch by year's end. Microsoft is collaborating with a PC gaming company like ASUS or Lenovo to develop this device, which is likely running on Windows with access to the Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass. It is expected to feature an Xbox guide button and branding. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer noted that a full Xbox handheld is a few years away, coinciding with plans for the next Xbox in 2027. This year, the handheld may act as a trial for Microsoft. Potential partners include Razer or MSI, though details remain unconfirmed.
Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet | some new'ish details. Shinobi602 Twitter
Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is set 2000 years in an alternate future that diverged in the 1980s. Naughty Dog spent years developing the timeline and the game's new religion, which becomes prominent in this altered timeline. The game takes place on the planet Sempiria, where all communication has stopped, and the main character, Jordan, must uncover what happened to escape.
The Ori series has sold over 15 million copies after devs were told it would be a “Dead Genre”. Screenrant
The Ori series, including Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps, has sold 15 million copies. Developer Moon Studios spent four years on the first title, released in 2015. The series predates major Metroidvania games like Hollow Knight and Dead Cells, aiding the genre's resurgence. Designer Thomas Mahler celebrated this milestone on his X account, highlighting that the genre was deemed "dead" when they began. Notably, the 15 million sales exclude Xbox Game Pass users, suggesting a larger player base.
Ori developer Moon Studios goes ‘fully independent’, and will finish “No Rest for the Wicked” without take-two. VG Chronicles
Moon Studios, the developer behind Ori, has announced that it is fully independent after securing the publishing rights for its game No Rest for the Wicked from Take-Two.
The game, initially released in Steam Early Access in April 2024, will receive a major update called The Breach on April 30, which will expand the campaign with new areas, armors, factions, enemies, and weapons, and double the size of the game world.
Following The Breach update, Moon Studios plans to add co-op gameplay for up to four players and new music composed by Gareth Coker. The studio expressed excitement about continuing to develop No Rest for the Wicked without restrictions and fulfilling its vision.
Chrono Trigger turns 30 today, and Square Enix finally reveals it's working on "projects beyond the world of the game" to celebrate. VG247
Chrono Trigger celebrates its 30th anniversary today, and Square Enix has announced that it is working on "projects beyond the world of the game" to mark the occasion. While details are scarce, these projects will be launched over the next year.
To kick off the celebrations, a live stream dedicated to Chrono Trigger's music will be held on March 13 at 7 PM PST. Square Enix also paid tribute to the original creators, Yuji Horii, Akira Toriyama, and Hironobu Sakaguchi, acknowledging their contributions to this timeless masterpiece.
Netflix gaming and generative AI chief has left the company. GameSpot
Mike Verdu, Netflix's VP of Gaming and Generative AI, has left the company. Hired in 2021 to spearhead Netflix's gaming initiatives, Verdu transitioned to focus on AI in November 2024. His departure follows significant layoffs in Netflix's gaming division.
Under Verdu's leadership, Netflix launched new and ported mobile games, developed internal game studios, and tested cloud streaming. Recently, Netflix hired Alain Tascan as president of gaming and scaled back some gaming plans, including closing its AAA development team and laying off employees at Night School Studios.
Devil May Cry | Official Trailer. Wario64 Twitter
Devil May Cry premieres on April 3, only on Netflix. From Capcom, led by Adi Shankar and animated by Studio Mir, it is a Netflix animated series based on the hit video game franchise.
Project [C4] announced the next game from studio ZA/UM (Disco Elysium) . Shinobi602 Twitter
Studio ZA/UM, known for Disco Elysium, has announced their next game, Project [C4]. This espionage RPG will feature significant psychological elements, where players take on the role of an 'Operant' working for a global superpower. Missions will involve clandestine attempts to uncover secrets and gain influence, with the risk of death or exposure. Gameplay will include tense dice rolls and weighty dialogue choices, emphasizing the "stench of failure" and honouring player choice.
Players will be able to use psychoactive substances to erase, change, or alter violent events in the real world. The game focuses on spy games, allegiances, and betrayal rather than the glamorous world of James Bond movies. It draws inspiration from works like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Old Boy. You can check out the teaser here.
Nintendo Switch 2 set for gaming’s biggest ever launch even at $400-plus. Bloomberg
Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 is expected to have the biggest launch in gaming history. It will cost $400 or more, potentially reaching $499 due to upgraded hardware and possible US tariffs. Analysts predict rapid sales, estimated at 20 million units sold in the first year. The console will feature a strong software lineup, including new Mario Kart, 3D Mario, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Metroid Prime 4, and third-party support.
Despite the higher price, the Switch 2 is anticipated to benefit from a vast library of compatible games and a diversified manufacturing footprint to mitigate tariff impacts. Nintendo will reveal more details in an online presentation on April 2.
A new PlayStation game coming from Gears of War: Judgment studio. GameSpot
Polish developer People Can Fly has signed a deal with Sony Interactive Entertainment to develop a game based on a Sony-owned IP, codenamed Project Delta. The specific IP remains undisclosed, but People Can Fly boasts experience with major companies like Microsoft, Epic Games, and Square Enix. They are also working on Project Echo with Krafton and Gears of War: E-Day with The Coalition. Founded in 2002, People Can Fly is known for Painkiller, Gears of War: Judgment, and Fortnite: Save the World. They regained independence in 2015 after being part of Epic Games.
Final Fantasy Pixel Rmaster hits 5 million sales, Final Fantasy franchise now up to 200 million sold. IGN
The Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series has surpassed 5 million copies sold worldwide, contributing to the 200 million total sales of the entire Final Fantasy franchise. This milestone comes after the Pixel Remaster series sold an additional 2 million copies in September 2023. The bundle includes the first six games with updated 2D graphics, a rearranged soundtrack, and new features like a bestiary and illustration gallery.
This success follows Square Enix's disappointment with the commercial performance of Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, although the latter's PC launch has shown promising results.
Star Wars: KOTOR remake (and more) still in active development, reiterates Saber CCO Tim Willits Shinobi602 Twitter
"We're working on numerous games across many different genres. Everything that we've talked about is still in development. We will share information on upcoming games when we have something cool to share."
Copilot for Gaming has been introduced, and an early preview will be released on mobile for Xbox Insiders soon. Wario64 Twitter
Microsoft has introduced Copilot for Gaming, an AI-driven sidekick designed to help players get to their favourite games faster, improve their skills, and connect better with friends and communities12. Xbox Insiders will soon get an early preview of this feature on mobile.
Additionally, the Xbox Play Anywhere library now supports over 1,000 titles, allowing players to enjoy games on Xbox and Windows 10/11 PCs at no extra cost34. This flexibility leads to 20% more gameplay time as players can play on the go.
PowerWash Simulator 2 out late 2025, first trailer and screenshots released. IGN
FuturLab announces PowerWash Simulator 2, releasing in late 2025 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The sequel includes new tools, improvements, and a fresh campaign in locations like Sponge Valley, Power Falls, and LubriCity. Players can customize a home base and enjoy split-screen and online co-op for the first time.
The original PowerWash Simulator was a major success, with over 17 million players and popular DLCs. FuturLab is self-publishing this sequel, enhancing the cleaning experience with additional features and content.
God of War 20th anniversary merch & God of War Ragnarok Dark Odyssey Collection in-game update announced. Wario64 Twitter
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of God of War, Sony has announced new merchandise and an in-game update for God of War Ragnarok. The Dark Odyssey Collection update, releasing on March 20, includes new armor, appearances, and attachments inspired by classic themes12.
The anniversary merchandise features:
God of War: 20th Anniversary Retrospective book set3
Fangamer Jörmungandr Plush4
Laced Vinyl Collection3
Insert Coin 20th Anniversary T-Shirt Collection
Fuga: Melodies of Steel 3 gets a battle systems trailer, Mega Soul Cannon and Secret Events revealed. RPG Site
CyberConnect2 has released a new trailer for Fuga: Melodies of Steel 3, showcasing the game's battle systems, including the powerful Mega Soul Cannon. The game features the Omega Terminal for unlocking new abilities, bonuses for clearing chapters 1-11, eight endings, and 19 secret events. Players can expect a mix of combat, exploration, and character bonding.
Fuga: Melodies of Steel 3 will launch on May 29 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, and PC. The game promises a rich experience with multiple endings and special events that can be unlocked through various playthroughs.
Pokémon TCG Pocket overhauls trading following player backlash. EuroGamer
Pokémon TCG Pocket is revamping its trade feature after player feedback. The game will eliminate trade tokens in favor of Shinedust, an existing currency from booster packs, to enhance trading accessibility and enjoyment. The update will roll out by autumn 2025.
Moreover, the game, launched last October, has reached 100 million downloads. The recent booster pack, Triumphant Light, was added, alongside new gameplay from Pokémon Legends Z-A and the announcement of Pokémon Champions, a battle-focused mobile game, during the Pokémon Presents stream.
Ubisoft is reportedly considering a Tencent-backed future for Assassin’s Creed and more. VG Chronicles
Ubisoft is seeking investors for a new gaming group to manage major franchises like Assassin's Creed. Tencent may back this venture. Bids are due by month-end to stabilize operations after a tough period. The Guillemot family owns 14% of Ubisoft, while Tencent holds 9.99%. They discussed the possibility of taking Ubisoft private, allowing Tencent more influence in board decisions. The next major release, Assassin's Creed Shadows, is set for March 20.
Pokémon Go dev moves to reassure players after $3.5 billion sale to Monopoly Go! Company is confirmed. IGN
Niantic Inc. has sold its gaming business, including Pokémon Go and others, to Scopely for $3.85 billion. Scopely, backed by Saudi investment company Savvy Games, will support Niantic's long-term plans to ensure the games thrive. Pokémon Go chief Ed Wu reassured players of the game's continued positive evolution under Scopely. Niantic's game team will remain intact, and Scopely will enhance gameplay resources.
Furthermore, Niantic is spinning off its geospatial AI business into Niantic Spatial Inc., with Scopely investing $50 million and Niantic contributing $200 million, allowing faster operations scaling. This transition aims to ensure both gaming and AI businesses focus on growth and innovation.
Here's your lineup of PS Plus Premium and extra games for March. EuroGamer
Sony has revealed the latest titles joining its PlayStation Plus game catalogue for Premium and Extra subscribers in March. Highlights include:
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (PS4, PS5)
UFC 5 (PS5)
Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions (PS4)
Mobile Suit Gundam Battle Operation Code Fairy (PS4, PS5)
Bang-On Balls: Chronicles (PS4, PS5)
You Suck at Parking (PS4, PS5)
Syberia – The World Before (PS4, PS5)
Premium-exclusive additions feature several Armored Core titles and Arcade Paradise VR (PS VR2). Starting next year, Sony plans to focus more on PS5 titles in its monthly updates.
Nintendo’s San Francisco store will open in May with ‘exclusive products only available in this location’. VG Chronicles
Nintendo will open its second U.S. store in San Francisco on May 15, located in Union Square. This store will offer exclusive products such as accessories, apparel, home goods, and souvenirs. Nintendo's expanding IP business now includes films, theme parks, and more. The company is also opening Super Nintendo World at Universal Epic Universe in the summer of 2025 and recently opened the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto.
Respawn’s next Star Wars game is confirmed for reveal. VG Chronicles
Respawn and Bit Reactor will reveal their new Star Wars turn-based strategy game on April 19 during Star Wars Celebration in Tokyo. The game, produced by Respawn and developed by Bit Reactor—a studio of XCOM and Civilization veterans—was announced with other Respawn projects, including a shooter and the third instalment of Star Wars Jedi. EA Entertainment president Laura Miele stated Respawn will focus on its popular Jedi and Apex Legends series. Another Star Wars project, led by LucasArts veteran Peter Hirschmann, was cancelled in 2022. Details about the upcoming strategy game remain under wraps.
Biggest releases this week
