A game patch is a software update released by developers to fix bugs, improve performance, or add new features to a video game. These updates can address issues that players encounter, such as glitches or crashes, ensuring a smoother gaming experience. Patches can also introduce new content, like levels or characters, enhancing the overall gameplay. Game patches are typically downloaded automatically when a player launches a game, but they can also be manually installed. Developers often release patches in response to player feedback, making them an essential part of maintaining and improving games over time. Popular gaming platforms like Steam and PlayStation facilitate these updates.