Stellar Blade is Coming to PC in 2025: A Look at the Release and Potential PSN Requirement
Initially launched as a PlayStation exclusive in April, Stellar Blade is making its way to PC in 2025! This article delves into the confirmed release date and discusses a potential controversial requirement for PC players.
Will a PSN Account Be Needed to Play Stellar Blade on PC?
Rumors of a PC port surfaced in June following a comment by SHIFT UP's CFO. Now, the developer has officially confirmed the PC release for 2025. This decision is driven by the rising popularity of PC gaming and the success of titles like Black Myth: Wukong.
SHIFT UP's strategy to maintain the game's popularity until the PC launch includes a collaborative DLC with NieR: Automata and a much-requested Photo Mode, both set to release November 20th. Further marketing activities are also planned.
A Growing Trend with Potential Drawbacks
Stellar Blade's PC release follows a trend of PlayStation exclusives migrating to the platform, a move that has broadened the reach of titles like God of War Ragnarök and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. However, this trend has introduced a concerning practice.
Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, and with SHIFT UP operating as a second-party developer for Sony since 2023, Stellar Blade may require linking Steam accounts to PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts. This would unfortunately exclude players in over 170 countries lacking PSN access.
Sony's Rationale and Uncertain Future
Sony justifies this requirement by citing the need to ensure the "safe" enjoyment of its live-service games. While this may be understandable for games like Helldivers 2, the application to single-player titles like the Horizon series raises questions.
The necessity of a PSN account for Stellar Blade on PC remains unclear. Since SHIFT UP retains ownership of the IP, this requirement might not be enforced. However, such a requirement could significantly impact PC sales, potentially hindering SHIFT UP's goal of exceeding console sales.
For a comprehensive look at Stellar Blade's initial release, check out our review!
