PlayStation is collaborating with Bandai Namco to breathe new life into Japan Studio’s classic titles, reviving some of Sony’s most cherished yet dormant franchises. The latest venture in this revitalization effort is Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots, which was initially revealed as a Nintendo Switch exclusive but has now been confirmed for PS5 as well.
This recent announcement follows the remastered release of Freedom Wars earlier this year, along with the highly anticipated Patapon 1+2 Replay, both of which are being launched through licensing agreements with Bandai Namco.
Reviving Japan Studio Classics: A Strategic Partnership
Patapon 1+2 Replay: Enhanced Gameplay Awaits
Set to release on July 11 for PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch, Patapon 1+2 Replay marks the return of the beloved rhythm RPG with several key enhancements. While the previous remaster for PS4 had its limitations, this new version promises to improve the overall gameplay experience.
Players can look forward to features focused on quality of life, including adjustable difficulty settings that refine timing mechanics. These updates enhance accessibility while still preserving the essence that made the original games so popular.
Confirmed: Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots Heads to PS5
Initially announced for the Switch during the recent Nintendo Direct 2025 presentation, Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots generated uncertainty regarding its availability on PlayStation. However, a newly released trailer has confirmed that the game will indeed launch for PS5, ensuring that this beloved franchise remains a staple of PlayStation’s extensive catalog.
Developed on the foundation of Everybody’s Golf: World Invitational from the PS Vita era, this new installment introduces a chibi-style character redesign, a creative choice that may not resonate with all long-time fans. It’s also worth noting that original developer Clap-Hanz is not involved in this project, raising questions about how closely the new version aligns with the franchise’s traditional roots.
Expanding Collaborations: Sony and Bandai Namco
The decision to license Japan Studio’s classics to Bandai Namco appears to be a strategic move by Sony, aimed at reviving beloved titles such as Freedom Wars, Patapon, and Everybody’s Golf. This approach indicates a commitment to exploring innovative ways to ensure the longevity of these franchises.
While it remains to be seen whether the future will bring further remasters, ports, or even complete revivals, the current trend strongly suggests that fans can expect more classic PlayStation titles to make a return in the coming years.