Stellar Blade Coming to PC in 2025

Stellar Blade Confirmed for PC Release in 2025: Potential PSN Requirement Raises Concerns

Initially a PlayStation exclusive, the action game Stellar Blade is making its way to PC in 2025! This announcement follows earlier speculation and confirms the developer SHIFT UP's plans for platform expansion.

SHIFT UP Officially Confirms PC Release

Following investor inquiries regarding platform expansion, SHIFT UP confirmed a 2025 PC release for Stellar Blade. The developer cited the growing PC gaming market and the success of titles like Black Myth: Wukong as key factors driving this decision. While a precise release date is yet to be announced, SHIFT UP plans to maintain the game's popularity through initiatives like the upcoming NieR: Automata collaboration DLC (releasing November 20th), the addition of a Photo Mode (also November 20th), and continued marketing efforts.

PSN Linking Concerns

Stellar Blade's PC release joins a trend of PlayStation exclusives migrating to PC. However, this trend has introduced a potential hurdle. Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, and with SHIFT UP operating as a Sony second-party developer, a PSN account link for PC players is highly likely. This would unfortunately exclude players in regions lacking PSN access.

Sony's rationale, as expressed by CFO Hiroki Totoki, centers on ensuring the secure enjoyment of live-service games. While this might be understandable for online titles, its application to single-player games like the Horizon series remains questionable.

Uncertainty Remains Regarding PSN Requirement

The necessity of a PSN account for PC players remains unclear. Given SHIFT UP's ownership of the IP, 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 more on Stellar Blade, check out our game review!