Stellar Blade

Great video games have a clear sense of self. They know their strengths and weaknesses—whether it's their storytelling prowess or their mechanical finesse—which keeps them from suffering from an identity crisis or becoming disorganized. However, an overemphasis on a single aspect can sometimes lead to a game feeling like it's stuck in a rut, lacking variety and depth.

Stellar Blade, the debut title from Korean studio Shift Up, embodies this focus sharply. As an action-adventure game, it zeroes in on combat with impressive flair, deliberately minimizing complexity in other areas to deliver a streamlined, action-packed experience with minimal distractions.

If you're looking for a well-rounded game with meaningful side quests, a compelling narrative, and well-developed characters, Stellar Blade might fall short. However, if you're in the mood for a 20-hour sprint through monster-filled levels with thrilling action, challenging boss fights, and vibrant visuals, it delivers exactly what it promises.

The game isn’t devoid of creativity: its grotesque monster designs, while somewhat derivative, add a chilling edge to the nightmarish world. The excellent soundtrack enhances both the intense combat and the quieter moments between fights. Stellar Blade also maintains a well-paced rhythm, balancing action-packed sequences with moments of respite effectively.

The protagonist, Eve, stands out due to her distinctive design—a blend of anime-inspired aesthetics with provocative elements. While her design is eye-catching, it starkly contrasts with her flat, unremarkable personality. Unlike iconic female characters like Lara Croft or Bayonetta, who have complex personalities and strong presences, Eve’s character feels like a superficial representation lacking depth and charisma. The disconnection between her provocative appearance and her uninspired demeanor makes her seem like a mere fantasy object rather than a fully realized character.

The game’s narrative centers on a post-apocalyptic Earth where humanity fights against monstrous creatures called Naytibas. Eve, a space soldier, is sent to reclaim Earth and defeat these enemies. Despite some intriguing plot twists and moments of revelation, the story remains mostly serviceable. Characters are archetypical and lack depth, and the voice acting is often flat. The writing, mostly expository, fails to engage or evoke strong emotions, rendering the high-stakes conflict feel insignificant.

Stellar Blade’s combat system, however, stands out. It’s flashy, engaging, and reminiscent of PlatinumGames' Nier: Automata. While it may lack the versatility of its inspiration, it offers dynamic, chainable combos and special abilities with impressive animations and impactful damage. The combat is satisfying, with a good mix of melee and ranged options, and stealth elements that, though occasionally clunky, add variety.

Platforming and exploration segments suffer from some mechanical issues, with imprecise controls and stiff animations that disrupt the game’s overall fluidity. Despite these flaws, the combat remains a highlight, providing enjoyable and energetic encounters.

The game’s visual design is polished, presenting a post-apocalyptic world with a high level of detail. Although it draws on familiar concepts, the visuals are striking and immersive. The linear design of the game supports its graphical fidelity, with each level offering a distinct aesthetic. The open area introduced later in the game feels less impressive compared to the more visually captivating linear sections.

Stellar Blade enters a competitive genre dominated by action-heavy titles like Devil May Cry, Bayonetta, and Nier. While it shines in combat and presentation, it falls short in narrative depth, character development, and additional content. The game’s provocative character design might attract attention, but it doesn’t compensate for the overall lack of substance.

Pros:

- Fun, fluid combat

- Polished visual presentation

- Excellent music

- Engaging boss fights

- Enjoyable camps for respite

Cons:

- Weak story and characters

- Overly sexualized character design

- Lack of meaningful side content

- Repetitive encounters