By john 
In early gaming history, games were static products. Once released, bugs and balance issues often remained forever. Online gaming changed this cawan4d model entirely, introducing the concept of continuous updates and patches.
In the late 1990s, developers began distributing small updates over the internet. These patches fixed bugs, improved stability, and adjusted gameplay. Players gradually accepted updates as part of the gaming experience, even if download times were long.
The patch culture expanded significantly with MMORPGs. Games like World of Warcraft relied on regular updates to introduce new content, rebalance classes, and fix exploits. This approach kept players engaged and ensured long-term viability.
By the 2010s, patching became central to competitive integrity. Online shooters and MOBAs required frequent balance adjustments to maintain fairness. Patch notes became cultural artifacts, discussed extensively within gaming communities.
Today, games operate as evolving services rather than finished products. The history of patch culture shows how online connectivity transformed development philosophies and player expectations.