Patch Notes #18 - weekly gaming digest
Welcome to the 18th edition of Patch Notes, let’s get this bad boy going.
This edition will cover the week from 07 April to April 13.
What caught my attention this week
Trump tariffs shenanigans. Massive impacts on stocks, preorders, and mostly on normal people who just want to play games.
Biggest news of the week
Assassin's Creed Shadows patch adds quality-of-life updates and PS5 Pro upgrades this week. GameSpot
The latest patch for Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers quality-of-life improvements, bug fixes, and platform-specific upgrades. Key features include an auto-follow option for horseback travel, a refined tagging and dismantling system for items, and better skill tree flexibility with resettable Mastery nodes. Players enjoy faster horse speeds in cities and a shortcut for the investigation board.
For PS5 Pro users, the update adds support for PSSR upscaling, improving graphical fidelity and ray tracing in performance mode, requiring manual activation. Additionally, Ubisoft has fixed various mission-blocking bugs, enhanced combat responsiveness and AI behavior, balanced boss fights, and resolved numerous visual, audio, and UI glitches. Improvements to stealth mechanics, hideout stability, and gear visuals make this patch a thorough upgrade for players.
Sorry Canada, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have also been delayed to align with conditions “to be determined in the US”. VG247
Nintendo has delayed pre-orders for the Switch 2 in Canada, following a similar delay in the U.S. Originally set for April 9, Canadian pre-orders are postponed to align with U.S. timing, according to Nintendo Canada. The launch date of June 5, 2025, remains unchanged.
The delay relates to U.S. tariffs on manufacturing countries like China and Vietnam. While the exact reason for Canada's delay isn’t clear, it may be to synchronise North American markets and prevent cross-border pre-order workarounds to avoid higher U.S. prices.
Hades 2 is coming to Switch 1 & 2 as a timed console exclusive. EuroGamer
Hades 2 will launch as a timed exclusive on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, confirmed by Supergiant Games. It's in early access on PC without a full release date yet.
The sequel focuses on Melinoë, Zagreus's sister, who seeks to defeat Chronos, aided by Olympian gods. Version 1.0 will launch simultaneously on PC and both Switch models. Early access will continue through 2025, with high anticipation due to positive early reception.
Nintendo explains why Switch 2 game chat frame rate looked like that. GameSpot
Nintendo stated that the choppy frame rate in the Switch 2’s GameChat feature results from intentional design choices to minimise resource use. This lightweight design prevents interference with gameplay, crucial as future titles demand more graphics. The company also aims for a consistent experience for all users, regardless of network conditions.
Meanwhile, the Switch 2 launches on June 5, 2025, but preorders in the U.S. and Canada are delayed due to new tariffs from President Trump. Nintendo is evaluating the potential impact on pricing. Despite delays and some unimpressive features, early impressions indicate the Switch 2 is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, with a strong lineup of titles.
Nintendo's Switch 2 Edition ports of OG Switch games cost £65 in UK. EuroGamer
Retailers uK retailers list upgraded Switch 2 editions of original Nintendo Switch games at £64.99–£67. Notable titles include Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and Super Mario Party Jamboree, featuring new elements like “Zelda Notes” for improved gameplay and a remixed Kirby campaign, Star-Crossed World. Owners of the original games can buy an upgrade pack rather than repurchase. The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch in the UK on June 5, 2025, costing £395.99 for the base console and £429.99 for a Mario Kart bundle.
Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble - Red (The Angry Bird) reveal trailer. Wario64 Twitter
Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble is adding Red, the Angry Bird, as a playable character via paid DLC, revealed in a new trailer by SEGA. Red joins the chaotic monkey-rolling action with his signature attitude, bringing a crossover flair to the game. This marks another fun character addition as part of the game’s extended content plan.
Astro Bot is this year's big winner at the BAFTA games awards. EuroGamer
Astro Bot was the big winner at the 2025 BAFTA Games Awards, taking home five major accolades including Best Game, as well as awards for Animation, Audio Achievement, Family, and Game Design. The PlayStation 5 platformer from Team Asobi stood out among stiff competition like Helldivers 2, Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Balatro.
Other notable winners include Helldivers 2 (Multiplayer and Music), Thank Goodness You’re Here (Best British Game), and Balatro (Debut Game). Meanwhile, Still Wakes the Deep won Best New IP, Technical Achievement, and two performance awards. Composer Yoko Shimomura was honored with the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship for her outstanding contributions to video game music.
Switch 2 carts still taste bad, designed purposefully to be spat out. GameSpot
Nintendo has confirmed that Switch 2 game cartridges still taste intentionally bad, continuing the safety measure introduced with the original Switch. The bitter coating is designed to prevent accidental ingestion, especially by children. A Nintendo representative explained, "We don't want anybody to be at risk of any unwanted consumption. We have made it so that if it enters your mouth, you'll spit it out."
Switch 2 Exclusive Mario Kart world justifies its $80 price tag, Nintendo insists in first comments addressing cost controversy. IGN
Nintendo defends the $80 price of Mario Kart World for the Switch 2, amid fan backlash. Bill Trinen explained that pricing reflects the game's content and value, claiming it is a “vast” experience. A console bundle includes the game for $499.99, offering a $30 discount, subject to tariff-related pricing changes.
Trinen also discussed the $80 pricing for other Switch 2 Edition games like Tears of the Kingdom, emphasising that pricing is based on enhancements and value. Current owners can get $10 upgrades, while Switch Online + Expansion Pack members receive upgrades at no extra cost. Nintendo's position is clear: The new features and expanded gameplay justify the higher prices.
Mario Kart: Double Dash’s revolutionary two-driver mechanic almost didn’t happen.VG Chronicles
A translated interview reveals that Mario Kart: Double Dash’s two-driver mechanic was nearly scrapped. Nintendo developed a single-driver version alongside the two-driver concept as a backup. Developers strived to innovate without losing Mario Kart's uniqueness, eventually opting for the two-driver system after extensive debate.
The original concept included side-by-side seating with sidecars, but gameplay constraints led to the iconic front-and-back layout with a swap feature for visibility. Although Double Dash hasn’t been re-released since its 2003 GameCube debut, the addition of GameCube titles to the Nintendo Switch 2 raises speculation of its return on the new console.
The Best Version Of Zelda: Wind Waker could still come to Switch 2. GameSpot
Nintendo confirmed that The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker will be available on the GameCube lineup for Nintendo Switch Online when Switch 2 launches. This doesn't exclude the enhanced Wii U version from potentially being ported to the new console. Nintendo SVP Nate Bihldorff stated, “all options are on the table,” suggesting both versions could coexist, akin to how titles like Wild Guns and Blaster Master have been treated.
The Wii U version boasts quality-of-life improvements, including better visuals and gameplay tweaks, making it the definitive edition. The GameCube version is expected to have technical enhancements such as resolution boosts, faster load times, and possibly online features. Although earlier rumors for ports to the original Switch didn't materialise, there's renewed hope that both Wind Waker and Twilight Princess will finally come to Switch 2.
PlayStation Portal update adds more features to cloud streaming. GameSpot
The PlayStation Portal now features a streaming server queue system, allowing users to line up when servers are full. A screen displays estimated wait times, and the game session starts automatically once a spot opens. Additionally, users can now sort PS Plus Catalog games by recently added, name, or release date for easier browsing.
Since its 2023 launch, the PS Portal has seen steady improvements, including expanded Remote Play capabilities and support for cloud streaming. Sony is also rumored to be developing a new portable PS5 device to rival the Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck.
Xbox announces June showcase event, reveals game getting this year's big spotlight. EuroGamer
Xbox has officially announced its 2025 Games Showcase, set for Sunday, June 8 at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm UK time, with a major spotlight on The Outer Worlds 2. Immediately following the main event, Microsoft will host a dedicated Outer Worlds 2 Direct, offering a deep dive into Obsidian’s sci-fi RPG sequel—previously a slot used for major titles like Starfield and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
This makes Microsoft the first of the big three console makers to lock in its June plans, during what used to be E3 week. The announcement comes just ahead of Summer Game Fest on June 6, and the highly anticipated Switch 2 launch on June 5, with more showcases expected soon from other publishers like EA, Ubisoft, and potentially PlayStation.
Vampire Survivors was forced to abandon PlayStation cross-save due to undisclosed legal complications.VG Chronicles
Vampire Survivors developer Poncle has announced that cross-save functionality will no longer be coming to PlayStation 4 and 5, due to an undisclosed legal issue involving user data sharing. The feature, initially planned for all platforms in the upcoming version 1.13 update, would have allowed players to sync progress across devices using a Poncle account.
While the team is still aiming to resolve the issue with PlayStation, they admit the chances of cross-save coming to Sony consoles are "very slim." Meanwhile, cross-save will roll out as planned on PC, Xbox, Android, and iOS, with Switch and potentially Apple Arcade to follow. The news comes shortly after Vampire Survivors won the Evolving Game award at the 2025 BAFTA Games Awards.
Switch 2 GameCube controller appears to be compatible with GameCube Classics only, according to Nintendo small print. IGN
The Switch 2's GameCube controller will launch with limited compatibility, working only with GameCube titles on Nintendo Switch Online. A UK trailer confirmed it won't support other Switch 2 games, but past Nintendo controllers have had flexible use. The GameCube Controller adapter connects to the Switch 2 dock via USB for retro gaming. This controller launches alongside GameCube games on Nintendo Switch Online, including The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Super Mario Sunshine, and F-Zero GX, with plans to expand the game offerings over time.
Diablo 4’s roadmap reveals a new expansion coming in 2026. Esports.gg
Blizzard has unveiled Diablo 4's 2025 roadmap, outlining seasonal updates and future content. It includes three seasons, with Season 8 launching on April 29, featuring Belial's return, new bosses, items, and mechanics. Season 9 explores Sins of the Horadrim, while Season 10 introduces Infernal Chaos, both featuring exciting IP collaborations. The standout announcement is the 2026 expansion, expected to bring Leaderboards and possibly new content, though specifics are limited.
The roadmap also hints at new IP collaborations for Seasons 8 and 10, fueling speculation on potential cosmetic returns or fresh content. Players eagerly await the next major update, particularly the 2026 expansion and its implications for the game. Fans hope for more details on collaborations and the expansion throughout 2025.
PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Classics Catalog lineup for April 2025 announced. Gematsu
Sony has announced the April 2025 lineup for PlayStation Plus subscribers, featuring new games for Extra and Premium members. Key additions include Hogwarts Legacy, Blue Prince, Battlefield 1, and EA Sports PGA Tour in the Game Catalog, along with Alone in the Dark 2 and War of the Monsters in the Classics Catalog. These titles will be available starting April 15, with some early access starting April 10.
Valve quietly removes explicit game featuring extreme sexual violence from Steam in UK. EuroGamer
Valve has removed the controversial game No Mercy from Steam in the UK, Australia, and Canada after criticism over its explicit content, which includes themes of sexual violence, incest, and non-consensual acts. The game, described as a "choice-driven adult visual novel," faced backlash from officials and organizations, including the UK technology secretary and Women in Games, for promoting harmful messages about violence against women.
In response to the controversy, the game's developer, Zerat Games, announced it would pull No Mercy from Steam entirely, defending its right to exist as a game while urging more openness to unconventional fetishes. Valve has not provided a clear explanation for allowing the game on the platform initially or its removal afterward.
A Nintendo spokesperson confirms that physical Switch 2 Edition Games have the original Switch game and the upgrade pack on the same game card (no download code, no download required, exclusively Switch 2 game cards). VOOKS
Nintendo confirmed that physical editions of Switch 2 games will include both the original Switch game and an upgrade pack on the same game card. This eliminates the need for a download code or any additional downloads, ensuring a smooth experience for players who purchase the physical editions. These Switch 2 game cards are exclusive to the Switch 2 and are designed to offer all the content directly from the cartridge.
Former PlayStation Japan Studio Producer of Bloodborne and Soul Sacrifice, Teruyuki Toriyama, establishes a new studio in Tokyo called "Sirus Studio". Gematsu
Teruyuki Toriyama, former producer of Bloodborne and Soul Sacrifice at PlayStation Japan Studio, has launched a new game development studio in Tokyo called Sirus Studio. The studio aims to create games that "light up the hearts of players," signaling a focus on impactful, emotional gaming experiences. This marks an exciting new chapter for Toriyama, who is known for his role in developing iconic titles.
Super Mario RPG Remake OST arrived!. Genki Twitter
This “Sound Box” version includes the 1996 original soundtrack and the new rearranged soundtrack from the Switch Remake. It also comes with a special commentary book from the game’s legendary composer, Yoko Shimomura!
Why isn't the Nintendo Switch 2 welcome tour free? Former Ninty CEO Reggie Fils-Aimé isn't saying anything besides cheekily reminding us what happened with Wii Sports. VG247
The Nintendo Switch 2's Welcome Tour isn't bundled with the console for free, which has sparked some controversy. Former Nintendo of America CEO, Reggie Fils-Aimé, addressed the issue, referencing past debates over bundling games like Wii Sports with consoles. He shared clips of his efforts to convince Nintendo to offer games for free, noting the positive impact of such decisions. While Nintendo has cited "variable pricing" and the "care" put into the Welcome Tour as reasons for its cost, the debate over its pricing continues.
Ubisoft says players suing over the crew shutdown shouldn’t have expected to own the game forever. VG Chronicles
Ubisoft has defended its decision to shut down The Crew in 2024, arguing that players should not have expected indefinite ownership of an online-only game. Due to server and licensing issues, the game was delisted in December 2023 and made unplayable in April 2024. Two players sued Ubisoft for misleading consumers, claiming that the game was essentially a limited license, not something permanently owned. Ubisoft seeks to dismiss the lawsuit, stating that players were never promised indefinite access.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 character trailer – Monoco
The third character trailer for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 introduces Monoco, a bloodthirsty yet friendly Gestral. He loves combat and joins the expedition for the thrill of battle. Monoco can absorb skills from Nevrons, transforming into them during fights. Although he appears rough, he can speak the human language and is surprisingly scholarly. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 launches on April 24 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC and will also be available on Game Pass.
Marathon | Ultimate overview, gameplay, and hands-on impressions. Shinobi602 Twitter
Marathon is Bungie’s upcoming team-based extraction shooter set on Tau Ceti IV, where players scavenge for loot, battle AI and other players, and fight to escape with their spoils. It features fast, fluid combat, deep customization, and high-stakes gameplay with permanent gear loss on death.
Launching September 23 on PS5, Xbox, and PC as a premium title, Marathon combines PvPvE action, seasonal updates, and rich progression systems. While some concerns exist about map variety and accessibility, early impressions highlight it as a polished, intense, and emotionally gripping experience.
Gameplay Trailer ▶️
Gameplay Overview ▶️
GamesRadar ➡️ https://gamesradar.com/games/fps/marathon-hands-on-preview/
Spyro And Crash Bandicoot Reboot Studio, Toys For Bob, Wants To Bring Back Banjo-Kazooie Next. GameSpot
Toys for Bob, the studio behind successful reboots of Spyro and Crash, is interested in reviving the beloved Banjo-Kazooie franchise. Co-studio head Paul Yan hinted at this during a recent interview, noting the studio's collaboration with Xbox and suggesting Banjo has been' hibernating long enough." While unconfirmed, the team's enthusiasm and experience make a Banjo-Kazooie reboot more likely. After separating from Activision in 2023, Toys for Bob has maintained a close relationship with Xbox and is developing a new project, speculated to be Spyro 4. Yan indicated development is progressing well and the team is excited about its scope. Previously, the studio had to support Call of Duty, delaying a planned Crash Bandicoot 5. Their independence now allows them to return to creative projects, including potential revivals of classic platformers.
Mafia: The Old Country launches August 8. Gematsu
Mafia: The Old Country is set to release on August 8, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam, according to an inadvertently revealed announcement by publisher 2K and developer Hangar 13. The release date appeared in non-English versions of a Steam blog post promoting the game's upcoming panel at PAX East 2025.
The official launch date reveal was likely intended for the May 8 panel, where a new gameplay trailer will debut, and Hangar 13 is expected to provide insights into the franchise’s evolution. Pre-orders for the game are already available across platforms.
Bankrupt indie developer behind Rime and Gylt selling off game rights at open auction. EuroGamer
Tequila Works, studio behind Rime and Deadlight, is auctioning its game rights and assets after filing for bankruptcy in late 2024. The auction on Escrapalia features both released titles and unfinished prototypes, with Rime and Gylt priced around €15.5k and Deadlight at €2600. Unreleased projects include The Ancient Mariner, a narrative open-world adventure; Dungeon Tour, a co-op dungeon game inspired by Overcooked; and Brawler Crawler, a multiplayer combat game with procedurally-generated levels. Founded in 2009 in Madrid, Tequila Works cited tough market conditions for its insolvency. Their last release was Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story under Riot Forge.
Zenless Zone Zero is coming to Xbox Series X|S in June alongside the version 2.0 update. RPG Site
Zenless Zone Zero launches on Xbox Series X|S in June 2025, with its Version 2.0 update. It will feature 4K resolution, 60fps gameplay, HDR, ray tracing, and Quick Resume support. Additionally, there will be controller vibration optimizations, cross-progression, and Xbox Cloud Gaming access for Game Pass Ultimate members.
Version 2.0 will add a new story chapter in the Waifei Peninsula, merging urban life with Hollow exploration for a richer narrative. Launched in July 2024, Zenless Zone Zero is already on PlayStation 5, PC, iOS, and Android. The Xbox version enhances its reach and experience based on player feedback.
Lunar Remastered Collection gets two new gameplay videos ahead of launch. RPG Site
Ahead of its launch next week, the Lunar Remastered Collection has two new gameplay videos from GungHo Online Entertainment America. The first showcases footage from Lunar 1, featuring Alex and Luna exploring the Cave of Trials and battling the Truffle Troubler. The second highlights Lunar 2, with Hiro and friends confronting the Missing Link while searching for Maria in Zulan.
The collection releases on April 18, 2025, for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam), including classic and remastered modes, updated voice acting, and enhanced visuals for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Street Fighter 6 DLC character Elena launches June 5. Gematsu
Elena, the next DLC character for Street Fighter 6, will launch on June 5, 2025, alongside the release of the game’s Switch 2 version and the new Years 1–2 Fighters Edition, Capcom announced.
Elena, known for her nature-themed fighting style and rhythmic combat, can be purchased individually with Fighter Coins. Players who own the Year 2 Character Pass or Ultimate Pass will receive her automatically. Due to time zones, some players may see her release after server maintenance as early as June 4. Street Fighter 6 is available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series, and PC (Steam).
Phasmophobia turns to its community to make this Easter event the most terrifying yet. EuroGamer
Phasmophobia's first 2025 event, Cursed Hollow, launches April 17, introducing chilling challenges, rewards, and seasonal decorations. Players must find Jackalope totems across maps, with interactions that can aid or obstruct the team. New reward categories include Community rewards for team goals and Personal rewards for achieving Community objectives.
The event features gameplay modifiers and updates from player feedback. Cursed Hollow lasts three weeks, with developers at Kinetic Games valuing community input in game updates. This event is part of Phasmophobia's evolution, which will also include future map reworks, new equipment, and additional seasonal events.
Baldur's Gate 3's last-ever major update gets a long-awaited release date. EuroGamer
Baldur's Gate 3's final major update, Patch 8, will release on April 15, 2025, for PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 5. This update, in public stress testing since January, includes features like cross-play, photo mode, split-screen co-op for Xbox Series S, and new subclasses for all 12 classes.
Larian Studios announced this will be their last major update before new projects. To celebrate, the studio will host a Twitch stream on April 16 to showcase the new subclasses. The game is currently 20% off on Steam until April 21, priced at £39.99. After this, Larian will focus on a new project, leaving Baldur's Gate 3's future with Wizards of the Coast, who are considering a potential sequel.
Biggest releases this week
