Sony is making waves in the gaming industry by bringing some of its beloved PlayStation franchises to new platforms. In a surprising move, the company has partnered with Bandai Namco to release remastered and new versions of classic Sony titles on Nintendo Switch and PC. This strategic shift marks a significant change in Sony’s approach to its intellectual property and game distribution.
Patapon Marches onto New Platforms
The rhythmic action series Patapon is getting new life beyond PlayStation devices. Bandai Namco is publishing “Patapon 1+2 Replay”, a remastered collection coming to Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and PC on July 11, 2025.
This bundle includes updated versions of the first two Patapon games originally released for PSP in 2007 and 2008. Players command tribal warriors through side-scrolling levels using rhythmic button presses that correspond to drum beats. The remaster promises enhanced visuals and new accessibility options to make the unique gameplay more approachable for modern audiences.
Key Features:
- Includes full remasters of Patapon and Patapon 2
- Updated HD graphics while maintaining the original art style
- New tutorial system and difficulty options
- Support for button controls and touchscreen on Switch
Everybody’s Golf Tees Up a Multiplatform Release
The long-running Everybody’s Golf series (known as Hot Shots Golf in North America) is also expanding to new consoles. “Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots” will launch on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC later in 2025.
Developed by series veterans Clap Hanz, this new entry aims to maintain the accessible three-click swing mechanic while adding new modes and features. The game supports both local and online multiplayer for up to four players.
New Additions:
- Wacky Golf mode with outlandish course designs and rules
- Enhanced character customization options
- Cross-platform multiplayer (to be confirmed)
- Improved graphics taking advantage of current hardware
The Strategy Behind Sony’s Multiplatform Push
This move to bring first-party PlayStation titles to competing platforms represents a significant shift in Sony’s gaming strategy. Historically, Sony has kept its exclusive franchises tightly controlled on PlayStation hardware to drive console sales.
However, the gaming landscape has evolved:
- The success of Microsoft’s Game Pass and multiplatform strategy has increased pressure on Sony to adapt.
- There’s growing player demand for cross-platform play and game availability.
- Older franchises may have limited appeal on modern PlayStation consoles but can find new audiences elsewhere.
- Releasing on multiple platforms can significantly increase revenue potential for these titles.
By partnering with Bandai Namco, Sony can test the waters of multiplatform releases without fully committing its latest blockbuster franchises. This approach allows them to gauge interest and potentially expand the reach of dormant IP.
What This Means for Gamers
For PlayStation fans, this move might be met with mixed reactions. While some may see it as diluting the PlayStation brand, others will appreciate the preservation and revival of classic franchises.
Nintendo Switch and PC players gain access to series previously unavailable on their platforms. This could introduce these games to entirely new audiences and potentially drive interest in other PlayStation properties.
Looking Ahead: More Classics on the Horizon?
The partnership between Sony and Bandai Namco isn’t limited to just Patapon and Everybody’s Golf. Earlier in 2025, they released a remastered version of Freedom Wars, a previously PlayStation Vita exclusive action RPG, on multiple platforms.
With three Sony-owned titles slated for multiplatform release in a single year, speculation is high about what other PlayStation classics might make the jump. Potential candidates could include:
- Gravity Rush
- LocoRoco
- Ape Escape
- Wild Arms
While Sony is unlikely to release its newest, system-selling exclusives on competing platforms, this strategy opens up exciting possibilities for reviving older franchises and introducing them to new generations of players.
As the lines between gaming platforms continue to blur, Sony’s cautious steps into multiplatform releases demonstrate the company’s willingness to adapt. Whether this marks the beginning of a larger trend or remains limited to select titles, it’s clear that the gaming landscape is evolving. Players across all platforms stand to benefit from increased access to classic franchises and the potential for innovative cross-platform experiences.