Santa Monica Studio has unveiled a new update for its critically acclaimed title, God of War Ragnarok, releasing patch version 06.06 on January 15, 2026. This update introduces compatibility with Sony’s Power Saver mode for both the PS5 and PS5 Pro consoles, a feature aimed at reducing power consumption during gameplay. Though the update is limited in scope, it carries significant implications for players, the gaming industry’s sustainability efforts, and potential future hardware developments from Sony.
Since its launch in 2022, God of War Ragnarok has received continuous support from Santa Monica Studio, including the celebrated Valhalla DLC and an anniversary patch in 2025. Following a period of silence that led many fans to speculate about the studio’s future projects, the release of the 06.06 update signals that there remains an active commitment to the game. The update is described succinctly in official patch notes: “Adds compatibility for Power Saver mode on PS5 and PS5 Pro.” There are no new content additions or adjustments to gameplay mechanics in this update, emphasizing a focus on energy efficiency.
The Power Saver mode, introduced in a firmware update in September 2025, aims to address the increasing demand for eco-friendly gaming solutions. Activating this mode reduces the PS5’s power consumption, allowing environmentally-conscious gamers to lower their energy costs and minimize their ecological footprint. However, players should note that utilizing this feature may lead to a decrease in graphics fidelity or frame rates. For many, especially those engaged in extended gaming sessions, the advantages of reduced power usage can outweigh the performance trade-offs.
Enabling Power Saver mode is straightforward: players can navigate to Settings > System > Power Saving > Use Power Saver. Once activated, the PS5 will automatically adjust its power draw for compatible titles, including the newly updated God of War Ragnarok. It’s important to note that not all games support this mode without specific patches, which is why updates like the 06.06 patch are essential for expanding the list of compatible titles.
The timing of this update has sparked speculation regarding its connection to Sony’s future hardware plans. Industry insiders suggest that the push for Power Saver compatibility may be part of preparations for a new handheld device linked to the anticipated PS6 generation. This device is rumored to run both PS5 and PS4 games, and ensuring that major titles like God of War Ragnarok can operate efficiently on lower-power hardware may facilitate a smoother transition to the next generation of PlayStation consoles.
In a report by MP1st, it was mentioned that “it has been claimed by a hardware insider that the format holder is using Power Save Mode as something of a Trojan Horse to prepare for the rumored PS6 handheld.” This assertion highlights the strategic significance of the 06.06 update, suggesting that it is more than a simple enhancement but rather a part of a broader initiative within Sony.
For players, the immediate implications of the update are clear. As noted by LADbible, “Reducing your power consumption whilst gaming will hopefully reduce your energy bills somewhat.” In a climate of fluctuating energy prices, even marginal savings can be impactful over time. The inclusion of a feature like Power Saver mode in a blockbuster title underscores a shift in industry priorities toward sustainable gaming practices.
In related news, excitement around the God of War franchise has been reignited with the announcement that Ryan Hurst will portray Kratos in Prime Video’s upcoming live-action adaptation. Hurst, who previously played Thor in God of War Ragnarok, is set to begin filming in Vancouver in March 2026, with a premiere anticipated in 2027. The adaptation aims to follow the original God of War story and has generated positive reactions from fans, including hopes that the series will honor the beloved source material.
As speculation continues about Santa Monica Studio’s next project, fans eagerly await news of what the team is developing. With four years since the initial launch of God of War Ragnarok, the studio remains tight-lipped about future endeavors, having only provided updates for significant releases and patches.
In conclusion, the latest update for God of War Ragnarok reflects a growing emphasis on sustainable gaming. As more titles adopt compatibility with Power Saver mode, Sony appears to be laying the groundwork for future hardware advancements while addressing the industry’s environmental impact. This alignment of technological innovation and eco-conscious gaming practices indicates that the gaming landscape is evolving, and players have a role to play in this transformation.
