‘Stellar Blade’ Review: PlayStation Fans Are in For a Treat

Introducing the PlayStation 5’s latest exclusive: ‘Stellar Blade,’ a captivating action RPG that’s sure to keep gamers on the edge of their seats. Developed by Shift Up Corporation, this game takes inspiration from beloved titles of recent years, offering a fresh yet familiar experience.

At the heart of ‘Stellar Blade’ is EVE, a member of the 7th Airborne Division returning to Earth from a colony to confront the mysterious Naytibas and reclaim the planet for humanity. The game’s semi-open world structure draws comparisons to cult hits like ‘NieR: Automata,’ while incorporating gameplay elements reminiscent of Soulslike titles such as ‘Jedi: Fallen Order.’

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In ‘Stellar Blade,’ precision and adaptability are key, particularly on a normal difficulty where a defensive approach is often favoured, especially in challenging boss encounters. Unlike hack-and-slash games, mindlessly attacking won’t suffice; players must master parrying and dodging for successful engagements.

Perfectly timed parries and dodges can lead to devastating counterattacks, adding depth to the combat system.

Beyond melee combat, EVE can utilise firearms and deploy various gadgets to gain an edge in battle, enhancing the strategic aspect of gameplay. Each enemy encounter presents a unique challenge, requiring players to utilise all available tools to emerge victorious.

While combat shines brightly, the narrative falls slightly short of expectations. Although the overarching plot is intriguing, it lacks the emotional depth to fully engage players. However, ‘Stellar Blade’ compensates with an array of side quests that offer additional content and opportunities for exploration.

The game’s world-building draws parallels to ‘NieR: Automata,’ featuring desolate landscapes and atmospheric settings that immerse players in its universe. Exploration is rewarded with upgrades and collectables, while mini-games add variety to the experience.

Despite its strengths, ‘Stellar Blade’ isn’t without flaws. Character models exhibit noticeable artefacts and occasional visual inconsistencies detract from the overall experience. However, performance remains solid, with smooth gameplay and minimal technical issues.