Initially a PlayStation exclusive, Stellar Blade is officially coming to PC in 2025! This article details the upcoming release and explores potential implications for PC players.
Stellar Blade's 2025 PC Launch: A Closer Look
Potential PSN Requirement Raises Concerns
Following hints earlier this year, developer SHIFT UP has confirmed Stellar Blade's PC arrival in 2025. This decision is driven by the rising popularity of PC gaming and the success of similar titles. The announcement followed an investor inquiry regarding platform expansion, with SHIFT UP citing the strong PC gaming market as a key factor.
While a specific release date remains unannounced, SHIFT UP's strategy focuses on sustaining the game's popularity until the PC launch. This includes the November 20th release of a highly anticipated NieR: Automata collaboration DLC and the much-requested Photo Mode, alongside ongoing marketing efforts.
This PC release follows a trend of PlayStation exclusives making their way to PC, but it also highlights a growing concern. As a Sony-published title and with SHIFT UP's status as a second-party Sony developer, a PSN account link for Steam may be required. This would unfortunately exclude players in regions lacking PSN access.
Sony's stated reason for this, as explained by CFO Hiroki Totoki, is to ensure the "safe" enjoyment of its live-service games. However, this justification has been questioned, especially regarding its application to single-player titles.
The necessity of a PSN account for Stellar Blade's PC version remains unclear. Given SHIFT UP's ownership of the IP, it's possible a PSN link might not be mandatory. However, such a requirement could significantly impact PC sales, potentially hindering SHIFT UP's goal of surpassing console sales.
For a deeper dive into Stellar Blade's initial release, be sure to check out our game review!
