Stellar Blade PC Release Date Confirmed For 2025

Stellar Blade is Coming to PC in 2025: A Closer Look at the Release and Potential PSN Requirement

Following its PlayStation exclusive launch in April, Stellar Blade is officially making its way to PC in 2025! This article delves into the confirmed release date window and explores the potential implications of a possible PSN account requirement.

PC Release Confirmed for 2025

Rumors of a PC port began circulating in June after hints from SHIFT UP's CFO. Now, the developer has officially confirmed the PC release, citing the burgeoning PC gaming market and the success of titles like Black Myth: Wukong as key factors driving their decision. While a precise release date remains unannounced, SHIFT UP aims to sustain the game's popularity until the PC launch. This strategy includes the upcoming November 20th release of collaborative DLC with NieR: Automata and the much-requested Photo Mode, alongside ongoing marketing initiatives.

Potential PSN Requirement Raises Concerns

Stellar Blade's journey to PC follows a growing trend of PlayStation exclusives making the leap. However, this trend has introduced a potential issue. Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, and with SHIFT UP operating as a second-party developer for Sony since 2023, a PSN account link for Steam users is a strong possibility. This could unfortunately exclude players in regions lacking PSN access.

Sony's stated rationale, as expressed by CFO Hiroki Totoki, centers on ensuring the "safe" enjoyment of their live-service games. While this might be justifiable for games with online components, its application to single-player titles like the Horizon series raises questions.

The necessity of a PSN account for Stellar Blade's PC version remains uncertain. Since SHIFT UP retains IP ownership, a PSN requirement isn't guaranteed. However, such a requirement could significantly impact PC sales, potentially hindering SHIFT UP's goal of surpassing console sales.

Stay tuned for further updates regarding the PC release and the PSN account requirement. In the meantime, read our Stellar Blade review for a comprehensive look at the game!