In today’s PlayStation State of Play we were treated to an extended look at upcoming action-adventure Stellar Blade. And by extended… I mean EXTENDED!
It was probably a few minutes too long if anything…
The PlayStation exclusive is looking really good, and it’s not too far away.
Stellar Blade’s release date is set for April 26th.
The Sci-fi fantasy follows Eve, a warrior from a far off space colony, who’s returned to defend a post-apocalyptic Earth from a mysterious enemy threat. She links up with Adam (a little on the nose) and Lily, working together to defend the last bastion of humanity on earth, Xion.
It all sounds a bit cheesy and ‘b-movie’, but that has its own sort of charm; I’m here for the melodrama!
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Stellar Blade looks stunning, with detailed semi-open world environments, realistic character models and plenty of particle effect flying around in combat. The citizens of Xion, with their numerous cybernetic implants, look particularly funky.
While the toned-down earthy colours of the world are fitting for the post-apocalyptic setting, the pops of neon electronics are a nice contrast, not to mention the various colourways Eve is rocking.
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Gameplay is a mix of exploration and combat, helping the people of Xion and taking the fight to the Naytibas. Battle is fast and flashy, giving big Bayonetta or Devil May Cry vibes, with an action-packed mix of ranged and close-quarters attacks.
Enemy designs are as cool as they are creepy, the Naytibas, reminiscent of the flood from the Halo franchise. There are also hostile survivors, rogue robots and mutated creatures to keep Eve on her toes
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As we saw in the trailer, Eve will have numerous outfit changes, with additional costumes, accessories and hairstyles to be discovered throughout the world. There seems to be no shortage of cosmetics to customise your Eve.
With up-gradable equipment, skill-trees and plenty of side-quests, it’s looking very much like my type of game.

Stellar Blade will be available for pre-order on the 7th of October with Standard and Digital Deluxe versions.
Pre-order and deluxe bonuses include new threads for Eve and crew — and something I’ve never heard/thought/dreamt of before… Ear Armour. So bizarre!
