Stellar Blade Review
Release date: April 26, 2024
Developer: SHIFT UP Corporation
Platform: PlayStation 5
Mode: Single-player video game
Genres: Action-adventure game, Role-playing video game
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
“Review Copy Provided By PlayStation”
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Maybe its because I’m older and don’t care for or utilize clickbait to get eyes and attention on my work, but it seems like the game I’ve been playing and my opinion on it and the discourse around it is starkly different. The things gamers praised the NieR series, especially Automata for, are present and of a higher degree than in that title and yet these same gamers and media outlets have issues with the main character of Stellar Blade being a curvaceous and beautiful woman…..that actually based on an actual Korean model…
Hypocrisy in gaming and media will never end…
Ok… Let’s get to this review as I had the privilege of diving into the game Stellar Blade, courtesy of Sony and Shift Up Studios. As I navigated the richly detailed world of the game through the perspective of EVE, the protagonist, I accumulated numerous observations and insights. In this extended review, I will delve deeper into the various facets of the game that caught my attention.
Initially, my journey with Stellar Blade began with some skepticism, sparked by the game's demo. The storyline initially struck me as typical of the sci-fi genre, echoing themes and narratives familiar to seasoned players of such games. I remained hopeful, however, for a twist that would set this game apart. As I progressed, my initial doubts were thoroughly dispelled, reminiscent of a moment when Shaquille O'Neal publicly acknowledged a misjudgment, leading me to mentally echo his words to Shift Up Studios: “I owe you an apology. I wasn’t really familiar with your game.”
For those yet to be introduced to Stellar Blade, the game unfolds with EVE, an elite soldier from the 7th Airborne Squad, tasked with a monumental mission on Earth. She is deployed to eradicate the Naytibas, a malevolent force that has wreaked havoc across the planet. As EVE, players navigate a world of solitude and danger, tasked with the hefty goal of planetary liberation.
Beyond its surface, Stellar Blade is not merely another run-of-the-mill sci-fi adventure. It was marketed by Shift Up Studios as a story-driven action adventure, and it fulfills this promise impeccably. The game starts off at a measured pace, gradually layering complexity and intrigue. One of the most compelling aspects of Stellar Blade is the unpredictability of its storyline. As the narrative unfolds, players find themselves peeling back layers of a progressively intricate plot, often caught in the dilemma of choosing allegiances among well-crafted characters.
The narrative arc of Stellar Blade is satisfyingly rich, akin to the unfolding of a top-tier sci-fi film or television series. What starts as a straightforward mission evolves into a complex tale brimming with twists and surprises that keep the player engrossed. EVE's journey from a lone warrior to a seasoned savior of Earth is both thrilling and narratively rewarding.
Character development is a strong suit of Stellar Blade. The game introduces a cast of characters who initially might seem stereotypical but soon reveal deep, personal backstories and complex motivations. As the game progresses, these characters grow, their personal arcs intertwining with the main storyline to create a multifaceted narrative tapestry. EVE herself undergoes significant transformation, her initial naivety giving way to a mature, valiant demeanor as she faces challenges and makes critical decisions that affect the course of the story.
Moreover, the game's "multi-ending" feature adds layers of depth and replayability, empowering players to shape the outcome of their journey. This aspect of the game enhances its engagement value, making each decision in the game carry significant weight.
The voice acting in Stellar Blade deserves special mention. Opting to experience the game in its original South Korean voice acting added an authentic emotional depth to the characters, although the option for English voice acting is available for those who prefer it. The voice performances bring the characters' emotions and struggles to life, adding a rich layer to the storytelling.
Combat in Stellar Blade is strategically demanding and immensely satisfying. Centered around mechanics of parrying and dodging, the combat system is intricate, featuring five unique skill trees that allow for a wide range of styles and tactics. This system encourages skillful play rather than mere button mashing, with a rewarding depth that unfolds as players master various combos and techniques. The combat is further enriched by a variety of skills and abilities that can be tailored to suit different play styles, making each encounter feel dynamic and impactful.
While the game excels in narrative and combat, its mission design does show some areas for improvement, adhering too closely at times to traditional fetch quests. However, this is balanced by engaging puzzles and beautifully designed environments that maintain a sense of discovery and wonder.
The environmental design in Stellar Blade is meticulously detailed, each location from the silent streets of Eidos7 to the desolate wastelands crafted with care and attention to detail. The game's visual presentation is stunning, brought to life by the powerful Unreal Engine 4, which renders each scene with breathtaking clarity and realism.
Stellar Blade is a commendable fusion of innovative storytelling and exhilarating combat, making it a standout title in the action RPG genre. Despite some minor drawbacks in mission structure, the game delivers a compelling sci-fi saga enriched with deep character arcs, strategic combat, and a visually stunning world. It is a testament to Shift Up Studios' creativity and skill, solidifying Stellar Blade as my top pick for the Best Action Game of 2024.
