Summary
Stellar Bladeis an upcoming action-adventure title by Shift Up and Sony Interactive Entertainment, and it has already made plenty of waves ahead of its release on account of its standout visuals and character models. Looks aren’t the only thing the game has going for it, however, as some players have already reportedly logged somewhere around 50 hours inStellar Blade’s otherwise hour-long demoalone, arguably proving the appeal of its engaging gameplay. As it turns out,Stellar Bladeis packed with an array of satisfying gameplay features that are likely to please fans of a variety of genres.
There is already plenty to love aboutStellar Blade, based on the features that have been confirmed ahead of its release. Shift Up’s action-adventure title has been clearly influenced by other popular franchises, such asHorizon Zero DawnandStar Wars Jedi, and the product of these inspirations may very well pay off in the long run.
Stellar Blade Will Feature Challenging Soulslike Gameplay
At the center ofStellar Blade’s gameplay loop is some unpredictably challenging combat. Much of the discourse surroundingStellar Bladesince its announcement has largely been full of facetious jokes about the game’s character models, which makes its satisfyingly demanding combat all the more ironic. Rather than being all about its visuals, as it once seemed to be more concerned with,Stellar Bladetakes a serious Soulslike approach to its combatby encouraging players to rely more on the precise timing of their attacks than simply running and gunning.
Stellar Blade’s enemieseach have unique combat mechanics of their own that will require plenty of trial and error from players. Furthermore, much like theDark SoulsandStar Wars Jediseries, anytime players rest at a campsite inStellar Blade, any enemies that were previously defeated respawn with full health in their original locations. This makes for some rather demanding gameplay that might throw its more casual players for a loop.
Stellar Blade Features a Semi-Open World Filled With Side Quests and Collectibles
Semi-open worlds are becoming more popular in modern gaming, as fullyopen-world gamescontinue to prove that bigger isn’t always better. Thankfully,Stellar Bladeis taking on the semi-open world model by allowing players to explore beyond a linear path but still limiting it to prevent it from becoming too much.
…Stellar Bladetakes a serious Soulslike approach to its combat by encouraging players to rely more on the precise timing of their attacks than simply running and gunning.
Players will be able to exploreStellar Blade’s semi-open world in search of plenty of collectibles, including upgrade materials and new gear. Additionally, there will also be plenty of side quests available for players to complete that will likely help flesh outStellar Blade’s cyberpunk worldand provide valuable rewards.
Stellar Blade Will Include Plenty of Cosmetic Customization Options to Choose From
One of the most anticipated features ofStellar Bladeis its costumes. Shift Up has confirmed that there will be 30 costumes for players to unlock inStellar Blade, each providing EVE and her team with unique appearances suitable for a variety of occasions. Many ofStellar Blade’s outfitshave already been shown off in the game’s trailers and gameplay footage, but there will still be plenty more in addition to those for players to unlock as they make their way through the game.
Stellar Bladeis already off to a great start, especially considering the unexpected popularity of its demo. There is likely a great deal of smaller features that players will experience when the full game is released, but its challenging Soulslike combat, its gorgeous semi-open world, and its wide variety of appearance customization options are among what has been confirmed so far and are likely its most notable features.
