Patch
From Sega Retro
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A patch is a file that is used to modify other files, usually ROMs. The Sonic scene has seen several types of patches, including IPS and RXL, used for ROM hacks. Patches were used during a time when downloading full ROMs would be a lengthy task for slow Internet connections, but with the advent of high-speed Internet connections, patches have fallen into disuse as hackers have made fully modified ROMs available.