Shift Up’s upcoming game Stellar Blade was selected as one of Wccftech’s most anticipated action titles for 2024. With only a couple months and a half left before the launch date, the developers have revealed more details about this game in an interview with IGN Japan.
Game Director Kim Hyung-tae explained that Stellar Blade will feature a mix of linear environments and open zones.
The beginning of the game has a linear structure, but it still allows for a wide range of exploration. Once you enter the city of Zion, it becomes a semi-open world where you can freely explore. After that, you’ll go to another linear area, so we’re mixing linear scenes with open world. We believe that users will enjoy a seamless and smooth experience without any interruptions.
While action combat will be the focus, there will also be quests and even secondary activities like fishing.
Kim Hyung-tae: Stellar Blade is basically an action game, but there are survivors living in Zion, and you’ll interact with them. There are many residents with problems, and the player will help restore the city to normal by solving them. You can interact with NPCs in town and accept and complete various quests from them. One of our major goals is to rebuild and develop Zion. However, the main focus of the game is the action.
Technical director Lee Dong-gi: There are various quests, such as finding people, rescuing people, activating certain devices, and battling specific enemies. It also includes elements that allow you to experience daily life in Zion, such as fishing and collecting items.
Regarding combat, the developers said fans can expect a full-fledged combo system, though parrying and dodging at the right time will also be very important. Also, Stellar Blade isn’t restricted to melee weapons, as there are ranged weapons, too.
The game is currently targeting an April 26 launch for PlayStation 5, as announced in the most recent State of Play stream. A PC version is also expected to launch at some point.