Stellar Blade, initially a PlayStation exclusive, is officially coming to PC in 2025! This article details the announcement and explores potential implications for PC players.
PC Release Confirmed for 2025
Following hints earlier this year, developer SHIFT UP has confirmed a PC release for their sci-fi action title. The decision is driven by the growing PC gaming market and the success of other PC titles. While a precise release date remains unannounced, SHIFT UP plans continued marketing to maintain the game's popularity until the PC launch. This includes a November 20th release of collaborative DLC with NieR: Automata and the highly requested Photo Mode.
Potential PSN Requirement Raises Concerns
Stellar Blade's status as a Sony-published title, with SHIFT UP acting as a second-party developer, raises the possibility of requiring players to link their Steam accounts to their PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts. This requirement, implemented for other Sony titles, would exclude players in regions without PSN access. While Sony cites "safety" for live-service games, the application to single-player titles like Stellar Blade is questionable.
Uncertain Future: PSN Linkage or Open Access?
The necessity of a PSN account for PC players remains unclear. SHIFT UP's ownership of the IP suggests a potential for open access, but a PSN requirement could significantly impact PC sales, potentially hindering SHIFT UP's goal of exceeding console sales.
For more on Stellar Blade's initial release, check out our review!
