Updated on April 24, 4:47 p.m. (GMT+8): Improved relevancy.
Stellar Blade thrusts players into a post-apocalyptic world where humanity’s fate rests on the shoulders of EVE, a survivor tasked with battling an alien threat and ensuring the planet’s survival.
We had a sneak peak and played the two-hour demo — and in this early Stellar Blade preview, we give you a glimpse into Shift Up’s newest action-adventure game, and why you should seriously consider adding it to your game library.
ONE Esports’ Stellar Blade preview
From the outset, Stellar Blade draws comparisons to titles like Nier: Automata, as it has a comparatively intense combat system and rich storytelling.
But as you delve deeper into the game, it establishes its own unique identity, blending familiar elements with innovative gameplay mechanics.
During our initial gameplay sessions, we examined and immersed ourselves in every facet of the game, gathering valuable insights to include in this Stellar Blade preview.
An intriguing plot
One of the standout features of Stellar Blade is its plot.
Players assume the role of EVE, a member of the 7th Airborne Squad, on a mission to liberate Earth from a menacing alien race.
The storyline unfolds dynamically, keeping players invested in the fate of humanity and the mysteries surrounding the alien invasion.
Experience a genuinely fun, Interactive environment
The game’s environment is another highlight, offering an interactive world ripe for exploration.
From hidden secrets to dynamic landscapes, navigating the game world never feels mundane.
Players will find themselves constantly discovering new areas and uncovering hidden treasures, adding depth to the overall gaming experience.
Stunning visuals
Shift Up’s action-adventure game delivers on all fronts with spectacular graphics and cinematic cutscenes. Its visuals deserve to be one of the talking points of this Stellar Blade preview.
From the opening sequence to epic boss battles, the game’s visuals puts players in a visually stunning and immersive world.
Wide range of monsters to battle
The diverse array of monsters, known as Naytiba, adds a layer of challenge and excitement to gameplay.
Each enemy type presents unique strengths and weaknesses, requiring strategic thinking and adaptability from players.
The variety of foes ensures that combat encounters remain engaging and unpredictable throughout the game.
Dynamic combat system
Speaking of combat, game’s combat system being a standout feature is something that needs to be given emphasis in this Stellar Blade preview.
It offers a wide range of attacks, from a variety of melee strikes to powerful Beta Skills, allowing players to customize their playstyle and tackle challenges in their own way.
The game’s defense mechanics, including blocking, parrying, and dodging, add depth to combat encounters, rewarding skillful play and tactical decision-making.
Badass character design
Finally, this Stellar Blade preview wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the game’s character design that definitely deserves praise.
EVE, inspired by Korean model Shin Jie-eun, stands out as a strong, feminine protagonist with a distinct visual identity.
The attention to detail in character design extends to EVE’s allies and adversaries, showcasing the talent and creativity of the development team at Shift Up.
This PlayStation 5 exclusive is scheduled for release on April 26, 2024. A free demo released on March 29, 2024.
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