Successful video games possess a clear understanding of their own strengths and limitations. This self-awareness, whether in storytelling or gameplay mechanics, ensures that they avoid an identity crisis. It also minimizes the risk of feeling cluttered or aimless. However, a singular focus can sometimes restrict a game, rendering it merely a one-trick pony.
The Korean studio Shift Up’s debut title, Stellar Blade, exemplifies this concentrated approach. As an action-adventure game, it emphasizes fast-paced combat while intentionally downplaying complexity in other areas. This straightforward design encourages players to immerse themselves in the action without being sidetracked by substantial diversions.
For those seeking a more multifaceted gaming experience — including engaging side quests, compelling narratives, and well-developed characters — Stellar Blade may fall short. However, players looking for a 20-hour, adrenaline-fueled journey through a monster-filled environment with vibrant combat, formidable bosses, and impressive visuals will find the game fulfilling.
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The game does feature some imaginative elements, such as its grotesque yet intriguing monster designs, which evoke a creepy ambiance reminiscent of Bloodborne rather than the sleek remnants of Earth depicted in Stellar Blade. The soundtrack complements the intense combat, enhancing moments of quiet between encounters. The pacing effectively balances action-packed sequences with serene pauses, allowing players to catch their breath.
One notable aspect is the character design of Eve, the game’s protagonist, a space soldier tasked with saving humanity in a post-apocalyptic Earth overrun by monstrous creatures. Eve embodies the aesthetic of an E-girl, complete with anime-like features and form-fitting outfits. Though her design draws from familiar anime tropes, it stands out within the gaming landscape. Historically, female characters in video games have been criticized for overly sexualized depictions, exemplified by figures like Lara Croft in Tomb Raider. While some games have created iconic female leads, many still perpetuate stereotypes.
Eve’s character design features overt sexualization, yet her personality lacks depth.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
While iconic female characters have emerged in gaming, such as Bayonetta and Lara Croft, who embody both personality and strength, Eve’s characterization does not match her provocative design. Lacking confidence and depth, Eve appears more like an object of desire than a fully realized character, failing to resonate with the player. Her portrayal feels reminiscent of a superficial notion of femininity rather than an empowered figure, which diminishes her impact in the narrative.
Eve’s lack of substantial character development results in an uninspired protagonist.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
Stellar Blade does not strive for narrative complexity; its story serves the game’s mechanics rather than adding richness. The plot revolves around Earth’s downfall after humans lose a war against the Naytibas, ravenous monsters. Humanity, now exiled in space, dispatches a squad of angelic warriors to reclaim their world from these beasts. Eve navigates through this conflict, quickly losing her mentor early on and aligning herself with Adam, a scavenger who survived the chaos.
Eve embarks on a predictable journey, gathering strength to confront the Elder Naytiba, the monster leader, while aided by Adam and resident engineer Lily. Although there are moments of intrigue and twists, the overall narrative remains superficial.
Eve’s adventure unfolds in a desolate urban environment.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
The characters in Stellar Blade adhere to simplistic archetypes with little depth, and the voice acting appears uninspired. Much of the dialogue relies on exposition, ensuring that the player remains detached from the motivations and histories of the characters. Interactions among allies are robotic, lacking emotional nuance, which diminishes the stakes of the game. Despite the effort to evoke a sexy atmosphere, Stellar Blade ultimately lacks allure, reduced to exaggerated physical depictions without genuine connection.
Eve is portrayed as a powerful warrior capable of immense strength, yet her personality is lacking, often feeling unsure of herself. Her characterization does not reflect the strength and confidence expected from such a character; instead, she appears designed for the male gaze, rendering her more of a superficial fantasy than a fully fleshed-out heroine.
Eve’s customization options fail to compensate for her lack of character depth.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
The core of Stellar Blade lies within its combat mechanics, which Shift Up successfully developed. Comparisons to Nier: Automata are apparent, particularly in combat intensity. Although Stellar Blade may lack the depth of its inspiration, the combat remains vibrant, showcasing flashy moves and powerful abilities.
The combat system consists of standard and heavy attacks, enhanced by an array of combos. Players must learn enemy behaviors, parry or dodge attacks, and counterattack effectively. Performing skilled dodges fills the Beta gauge, unleashing powerful abilities that can change the tide of battle. As players progress, they unlock Burst skills that deal substantial area damage.
Combat and boss battles stand out as highlights in Stellar Blade.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
Alongside melee attacks, Eve has access to various ranged options. Players start with grenades and can upgrade their drones to act as firearms with diverse ammunition types. While not replacing melee combat, these ranged attacks add valuable versatility to gameplay.
Stealth mechanics feature as well, allowing players to sneak up and execute unsuspecting enemies, replenishing their Beta gauge. However, stealth interactions can feel cumbersome, occasionally leading to mistakes that compromise the player’s position.
Platforming and exploration elements, unfortunately, reveal inconsistencies, with movement feeling stiff and unresponsive during crucial sequences. The game’s platforming design can be lacking, resulting in frustration for players during sections requiring precision jumps.
Platforming mechanics detract from the overall experience of Stellar Blade.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
The game’s strength lies in its combat system, which, while occasionally repetitive, offers satisfying weight and flow. Engagement with fluid actions and an effective skill tree keep the gameplay possible and exciting. Boss encounters showcase unique designs and require strategic thinking, allowing for rewarding and thrilling challenges against formidable foes.
Boss fights offer exhilarating challenges in Stellar Blade.
Photo Credit: Shift Up
Moments of reprieve between intense battles, where players can rest and replenish supplies, create a satisfying rhythm in gameplay. These camps serve functional and aesthetic purposes, presenting a nostalgic retreat amid devastation.
Camps provide players a momentary escape from chaos during gameplay.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
Visually, Stellar Blade excels, presenting a polished post-apocalyptic world despite some thematic familiarity. The detailed environments and impressive vistas enhance immersion, complementing the linear gameplay that showcases vibrant aesthetics.
Although not an open-world title, the game offers exploration opportunities after the first act, introducing side quests that feel lackluster compared to the primary narrative. Stellar Blade, exclusive to PS5, maintains consistent performance, though it might benefit from a future PC release, as its graphical quality lends itself well to that platform.
Stellar Blade offers visually immersive environments.
Photo Credit: Shift Up/ Screenshot – Manas Mitul
In the competitive landscape of action-adventure games focused on combat, Stellar Blade faces challenges when compared to titans like Devil May Cry and Bayonetta. By prioritizing combat over narrative and character development, it attempts to stand alongside genre leaders that deliver well-rounded experiences. Ultimately, the game is enjoyable for its combat mechanics and visual appeal, yet it struggles due to shortcomings in other areas.
Pros
- Engaging and dynamic combat
- High-quality visual presentation
- Strong musical score
- Memorable boss encounters
- Relaxing camp mechanics
Cons
- Uninspiring story and character design
- Overly sexualized lead character
- Lack of meaningful side content
- Repetitive combat engagements
Rating (out of 10): 7
Stellar Blade was released on April 26, exclusively for PS5
Pricing begins at ₹4,999 for the Standard Edition on the PlayStation Store.
