Stellar Blade (PS5) review: A sexy game that's actually fun to play

Note: This review was first published on 28 May 2024.

Stellar Blade is the latest in the long list of PlayStation 5 exclusives but what sets it apart from the God of Wars and Spider-Mans is that it’s one of the first (if not the only) made-in-Korea triple-A title that’s actually pretty fun to play on the console. First appearing as its working title, Project Eve in 2019, Stellar Blade is developed by South Korean studio Shift Up, and the game is their first triple-A title launch.

First appearing as its working title, Project Eve in 2019, Stellar Blade is developed by South Korean studio Shift Up and the game’s intense action sequences and the sexualized design of its main character Eve, have drawn comparisons to titles like Sega’s titular Bayonetta. However, its gameplay bears a closer resemblance to FromSoftware’s “soulslike” games like Sekiro and focuses more on well-timed combat – mastering the parrying system is crucial in mastering Stellar Blade.

That said, combat in Stellar Blade is satisfying and forgiving enough to keep frustration at bay as the game gives surprisingly generous windows for parrying. Success hinges on patience and learning enemy patterns, allowing players to execute well-timed blocks and devastating counterattacks. Each enemy presents a genuine challenge, with boss battles providing the game's standout moments.

These boss fights are a real spectacle by the way, as they combine challenging gameplay with cinematic quick-time events that conclude with jaw-dropping finales. What I like is how Shift Up manages to instill a huge sense of accomplishment into players at the end of each boss fight – I know I did. While Stellar Blade is akin to an action RPG, there isn’t much to do in the game apart from the obligatory explorations and side missions. Even the latter can be a drag at times, as it involves tedious backtracking and lacks the excitement of the main quests.

Speaking of the main storyline, which is filled with fun five-star actions, but only deserves three stars at best in terms of the quality of the narrative. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not expecting a plot of epic proportions the likes of Final Fantasy VII but I’m not sure if Shift Up wants players to take Stellar Blade’s story seriously or to revel in Eve’s gravity-defying bosoms (which is saying a lot!). The story, involving humanity's retreat to space after Earth is overrun by monsters called Naytiba, is delivered with a mix of seriousness and camp. Eve returns to Earth to fight these threats, often in impractical, revealing outfits (and there are many to unlock). The game's heavy use of fan service, including exaggerated jiggle physics, might put some off but could amuse others with its over-the-top nature.

But that said, the unlockable outfits have their own gameplay merits and benefits. Beyond appearances, you can customise Eve’s equipment to affect combat effectiveness, allowing for tailored builds to suit different play styles. This becomes crucial in tougher battles.

Even if the storyline does not quite impress me, I must admit that Stellar Blade’s visuals are stunning. Taking full advantage of the PlayStation 5’s prowess, the in-game environments are richly detailed, from the decaying urban landscapes to the lush, overgrown wilderness areas. This attention to detail also extends to the character models, which are intricately designed and animated. Eve is digital waifu in every sexy and beautiful senses, and I’m not ashamed to say that. The use of lighting and shadow further enhances the game's atmosphere, creating a world that feels both immersive and foreboding.

All in all, Stellar Blade is more than its flashy exterior. It delivers a robust and satisfying action experience that balances challenge with accessibility. For those willing to look past its more superficial elements, there's a deeply engaging combat game that stands proudly among PlayStation 5's exclusives. Stellar Blade proves that an Asian developer outside of Japan can step up to deliver a great triple-A gaming experience, and I think that’s absolutely fantastic for gaming development in our region.

Stellar Blade is available for PlayStation 5 now and is available for purchase at PlayStation Store.

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