Rockstar's latest Bully update could be hinting at something bigger for the franchise.

Rockstar Games has surprised fans by rolling out a massive update for Bully: Anniversary Edition on iOS and Android, addressing an extensive list of technical issues and while adding some new features to the classic game.

Remarkably thorough, the latest update contains fixes spanning nearly every aspect of the game's technical performance and gameplay mechanics. The patch addresses over 30 crash-related issues, significantly improving the game's stability across 64-bit mobile devices.

Screen Space Ambient Occlusion (SSAO) has been introduced for Android users, enhancing visual quality by adding depth and shadow details to the game's environments. Both iOS and Android versions now feature haptic feedback, providing more immersive tactile responses during gameplay.

Rockstar has also addressed numerous technical hurdles, including complex issues like:

  • Resolving memory allocation problems on 64-bit CPUs
  • Fixing texture compression extension detection on Adreno GPUs
  • Correcting shadow rendering inconsistencies
  • Reducing system load for audio and asset streaming

On top of that, Rockstar has resolved multiple mission-specific bugs that have long frustrated players. These include:

  • Fixing the "That Bitch" mission where Mandy's locker became unpickable
  • Resolving progression issues in the "Weed Killer" mission
  • Correcting AI behavior during combat sequences
  • Addressing crashes during various minigames
  • Fixing rendering problems in gym classes like dodgeball

Keen players will also note a few corrections to minute details like footstep sound effects, camera transitions, and even geography class flag placements. As expected, this huge update has ignited speculation among Bully fans. While Rockstar hasn't officially commented on their long-term plans, the extensive nature of the patch suggests more than just routine maintenance.

Last year, Rockstar insider Tez2 spotted the addition of a new development branch called "qabeta" to the Steam version of Bully: Scholarship Edition, hinting at potential future developments. The biggest and most sensible theory that has been floated is the update could be preparing the ground for a more comprehensive re-release or laying the groundwork for improvements to other platforms. It's possible that Rockstar plans to add Bully to the PC version of GTA+.

Whichever the case, Bully fans will be pleased with the update that makes the game run more smoothly, offering a much better experience for both returning players and new generations discovering the 19-year-old title.