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Stellar Blade

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Stellar Blade
Item: Stellar Blade
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableApr 26, 2024

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSHIFT UP Corporation

Overview

Eve and her comrades land on the surface to reclaim the extinct Earth and cross paths with a survivor named Adam. Eve is then led by Adam to the last surviving city, Xion, where she meets the elder of the town Orcal and is told many stories. In order to serve her mission to save Earth, Eve develops close relationships with the key members of Xion and contributes to rebuilding the city. On a mission to save Earth from the NA:tive, Eve is also faced with helping out the citizens of Xion. Whether you will help the survivors or not, depends purely on your decision as the player. The game originally was announced as "Project Eve" in 2019. It was set to release for PS4/Xbox One consoles and PC, but a September 2022 State of Play revealed the game would instead launch only on PS5 and PC.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Stellar Blade offers an intriguing premise with potential depth, but critics widely agree it falters in execution. While some praise its engaging narrative and complex characters, many highlight dull writing, robotic dialogue, and a predictable plot that lacks emotional stakes. The consensus is clear: despite a solid foundation, the story feels generic and derivative, ultimately failing to captivate players or carve out its own identity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions surrounding the story of Stellar Blade reveal a mixed bag of sentiments, with several critics acknowledging its intriguing premise and potential for depth. Critics like Destructoid and GameMAG highlight the engaging narrative and rich lore, suggesting that the story is filled with thought-provoking themes and complex characters. KeenGamer also points out the exploration of identity and internal struggles, indicating that the characters, particularly Eve, have layers that could resonate with players. Moreover, some reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and TrueGaming, appreciate the narrative's ability to weave in mysteries and side quests that enhance the overall experience, creating a world that feels immersive and layered. However, the negatives are pronounced, with many critics expressing disappointment in the execution of the story. RPGamer and New Game Network describe the narrative as dull, with robotic characters and a lack of emotional stakes that detract from player engagement. Vandal and Gameblog.fr echo these sentiments, criticizing the poorly written dialogues and underdeveloped character arcs, which lead to a predictable and uninspired plot. The consensus among critics like IGN Benelux and Shacknews is that the story feels generic and fails to captivate, often relying on familiar tropes without offering fresh perspectives or emotional depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Stellar Blade has the foundation for a compelling narrative, it ultimately falls short in execution. Many reviewers, including Atomix and GamesRadar+, note that the story is predictable and lacks the necessary depth and character development to engage players fully. Despite some positive remarks about the intriguing premise and potential for complexity, the overwhelming sentiment is that the narrative is poorly realized, with many critics suggesting that it fails to carve out its own identity and often feels derivative of other titles, particularly NieR: Automata.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Stellar Blade impresses with its engaging combat, drawing comparisons to Sekiro and Devil May Cry for its depth and challenge. Critics praise its rewarding boss fights and exploration elements, catering to various skill levels. However, there are concerns about repetitiveness, stiff mechanics, and camera issues that can hinder the experience. Despite these flaws, the consensus is that Stellar Blade offers a compelling action-adventure journey worth checking out.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Stellar Blade has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging combat mechanics and Variety of gameplay elements. Many reviewers, including IGN and GGRecon, praised the combat system for its depth, fluidity, and challenge, drawing comparisons to renowned titles like Sekiro and Devil May Cry. Critics noted the satisfaction derived from mastering combos, parrying, and timing, with Atomix and TechRadar Gaming emphasizing the rewarding nature of boss battles and the diverse enemy encounters. The game also incorporates exploration and side quests, which RPGamer and Vandal found to add layers to the overall experience, making it enjoyable for players of varying skill levels. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that could detract from the experience. RPGamer and Merlin'in Kazanı mentioned the potential for repetitiveness due to limited combat options and inconsistent pacing, particularly in crowded battles. Some critics, like Destructoid and IGN Adria, highlighted frustrations with the combat mechanics, including stiffness during melee encounters and a lack of invincibility frames in dodging, which can lead to a frustrating experience in certain scenarios. Additionally, issues with camera angles and platforming were noted by Eurogamer Poland and Gameblog.fr, suggesting that while the combat is strong, other gameplay elements may not always meet the same standard. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Stellar Blade offers a compelling and rewarding gameplay experience, particularly in its combat system, which is considered the standout feature. While there are criticisms regarding repetitiveness and some mechanical inconsistencies, the majority of reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and ComicBook, agree that the game successfully combines various influences to create an engaging action-adventure experience. The positive sentiment surrounding the gameplay suggests that, despite its flaws, Stellar Blade is a title that many players will find enjoyable and worth exploring.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Stellar Blade impresses with stunning graphics, detailed environments, and vibrant visuals, earning praise from critics for its character models and immersive landscapes. However, some reviewers criticize the unnatural and overly sexualized designs of female characters and inconsistent environmental quality. Despite these flaws, the consensus is that the game delivers a visually striking experience, blending realism with artistic flair, solidifying its graphics as a major strength.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Stellar Blade is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its impressive character models, detailed environments, and vibrant visual effects. Reviewers from outlets like IGN, Gamereactor UK, and CGMagazine highlighted the game's stunning visuals, noting the high-quality character designs and immersive environments that effectively convey the game's post-apocalyptic setting. Critics such as TechRadar Gaming and Destructoid emphasized the beautifully realized landscapes and the cinematic quality of the graphics, which contribute to an engaging gameplay experience. The game’s ability to offer multiple graphics modes, as noted by Merlin'in Kazanı and GameSpew, allows players to choose between performance and visual fidelity, enhancing the overall appeal. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the visual design that detract from the experience. Some reviewers, including Eurogamer Poland and VideoGamer, pointed out that character models, particularly those of female characters, can appear unnatural and overly sexualized, which may not serve a thematic purpose. Additionally, critics like Games.cz and Forbes mentioned that while the graphics are decent, the environmental design varies in quality, with some areas feeling uninteresting or lacking in detail. The artistic choices, particularly the reuse of assets and limited biome diversity, were also mentioned by VG247 and Digital Chumps as potential drawbacks that could impact immersion. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Stellar Blade delivers a visually striking experience that resonates well with players. Many reviewers, including IGN Brasil and Player 2, found the graphics to be among the best in recent titles, showcasing impressive attention to detail and artistic direction. The game successfully blends realism with stylistic exaggeration, as highlighted by Gamersky and LaPS4, making it visually appealing. While some minor issues exist, the majority of critics agree that the graphics and visual design of Stellar Blade are a significant strength, contributing positively to the game's overall impact and enjoyment.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Stellar Blade's sound design and music receive praise for their emotional depth and genre-blending, with many critics calling the soundtrack exceptional. However, some find it distracting or repetitive, and voice acting issues detract from the narrative. Overall, it’s an ambitious auditory experience with notable strengths and weaknesses, recognized for enhancing gameplay but not universally appealing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Stellar Blade have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many highlighting the exceptional quality of the soundtrack. Critics such as IGN, TechRadar Gaming, and Variety praise the music for its emotional depth and ability to enhance the gameplay experience. The soundtrack, composed by Keiichi Okabe and Monaca, is noted for its dynamic range, blending genres like K-pop, orchestral, and electronic elements that create a captivating atmosphere. For instance, TechRadar Gaming describes it as one of the best of the console generation, while Push Square commends its seamless transitions between different musical styles. Additionally, several reviews point out the immersive sound design, with impactful audio effects that complement the action and storytelling, as mentioned by Impulsegamer and Destructoid. However, not all feedback is positive, as some critics express dissatisfaction with various aspects of the sound design and music. IGN Adria finds the music irritating and distracting, leading to a decision to turn it off, while Eurogamer Poland criticizes the repetitive nature of some pop songs, which detracts from the overall atmosphere. Others, like Everyeye.it and GINX TV, mention issues with the voice acting, describing it as monotonous or lacking depth, which can hinder the emotional connection to the narrative. Furthermore, some critics, such as Atomix, feel that the soundtrack could have taken more creative risks, noting a tendency to follow familiar paths rather than explore original ideas. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Stellar Blade features a strong and engaging soundtrack that enhances the gaming experience, there are notable inconsistencies and areas for improvement. Many reviewers, including those from IGN Japan and Gamersky, appreciate the blend of emotional and energetic tracks that contribute to the game's atmosphere. However, criticisms regarding repetitiveness and voice acting suggest that the sound design may not resonate with all players. Ultimately, Stellar Blade presents a complex auditory experience that, despite its flaws, is recognized for its ambition and quality in the realm of video game music.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in "Stellar Blade" has received a mixed reception; while some critics praise its execution and language support, others highlight significant flaws. English and Italian dubs are criticized for lacking emotional depth and poor dialogue editing, leading to inconsistent quality across localizations. Overall, while it enhances the game for some, many reviewers find it ultimately mediocre and forgettable, failing to elevate the storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

28%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Stellar Blade" has received a mixed but somewhat favorable reception from various critics. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and TrueGaming, praised the voice acting for being well-executed and enhancing the overall experience of the game. Critics like LaPS4 highlighted the commendable support for over 20 languages, including full dubbing in both European and Latin American Spanish, which adds to the game's accessibility. Additionally, some critics noted that the English and Korean versions performed particularly well, with Noisy Pixel mentioning that the main trio of characters delivered strong emotive performances, contributing positively to the narrative. However, there are significant criticisms regarding the voice acting quality. Several reviewers, including Everyeye.it and GINX TV, found the Italian localization lacking depth and emotional engagement, while others like Push Square and Movies Games and Tech described the English dub as dry and emotionless, hindering the story's emotional impact. Gameblog.fr pointed out issues with poor editing that made the dialogue feel unnatural, and Vandal criticized the voice acting for being lackluster, attributing this to a poor script. Overall, a recurring theme among critics is the inconsistency in quality across different languages and localizations, with some performances feeling mismatched with the on-screen emotions, as noted by Voxel. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while there are commendable aspects of the voice acting in "Stellar Blade," particularly in certain languages, the execution is marred by notable inconsistencies and a lack of emotional depth in many performances. Critics like God is a Geek and Gamereactor UK acknowledged the competent nature of the voice work, yet many others highlighted its mediocrity, with RPG Fan describing it as largely forgettable. Ultimately, while some players may find the voice acting serviceable, the mixed reviews indicate that it does not reach the heights necessary to significantly enhance the game's storytelling experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Stellar Blade on PS5 impresses with smooth performance, sharp visuals, and effective DualSense integration, but suffers from control responsiveness issues, camera problems, and occasional frame rate drops. Critics praise its overall stability while noting minor bugs that need addressing. It's a strong showcase of PS5 capabilities, but optimization is still needed for a flawless experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Stellar Blade on the PlayStation 5 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and Everyeye.it, highlighted the game's smooth performance and stability, noting that it runs effectively across various graphical modes. Critics like Dexerto and Digital Chumps praised the game for its minimal frame drops and sharp visuals, indicating a well-optimized experience. The implementation of the DualSense controller's haptic feedback was also positively received, with GamingTrend and GGRecon emphasizing its immersive qualities. Overall, the PS5 version is noted for quick loading times and a well-structured performance that showcases the console's capabilities. However, several critics pointed out notable issues that detracted from the overall experience. Daily Star and Gameblog.fr raised concerns about control responsiveness, particularly in movement and dodging mechanics, which could lead to frustrating gameplay moments. Eurogamer Poland and GRYOnline.pl mentioned camera problems and frame rate drops during specific scenarios, indicating potential stability concerns. Additionally, some critics, like Merlin'in Kazanı, reported input lag in certain graphics modes and frame rate drops in crowded areas, which could hinder fast-paced combat. The presence of minor bugs and glitches, as noted by Noisy Pixel and others, also suggests that while the game performs well overall, there are still areas that require improvement. The overall consensus among critics reflects a balance of praise and criticism for Stellar Blade's technical performance on the PS5. While many reviewers, including IGN Brasil and Push Square, acknowledged the game's generally solid performance and stable frame rates, they also pointed out that minor issues, such as control responsiveness and occasional frame drops, exist. Critics like Shacknews and SpazioGames noted that despite these shortcomings, the game still delivers a visually impressive experience. Ultimately, while Stellar Blade showcases strong technical capabilities on the PS5, the mixed feedback regarding controls and minor performance hiccups indicates that there is room for further optimization and refinement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Stellar Blade has a mixed but generally positive take on replay value, with multiple endings and side quests boosting engagement. Critics praise its exploration and character customization, but concerns loom over repetitive gameplay, a predictable story, and the absence of a New Game Plus mode. While it offers some depth, many believe these limitations may deter players from multiple playthroughs, leaving its long-term appeal in question.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Stellar Blade present a mixed but generally positive outlook on certain aspects. Critics such as CGMagazine and RPG Site highlight the game’s multiple endings and the inclusion of side quests, which serve to enhance replayability. The exploration elements and collectibles mentioned by Gameblog.fr and Gamereactor UK further contribute to the game's depth, encouraging players to engage with the world more thoroughly. Additionally, the presence of skill trees and character upgrades, as noted by Impulsegamer and PlayStation Universe, allows players to experiment with different playstyles, making the game appealing for those who enjoy customizing their gameplay experience. On the flip side, several reviewers express concerns about the overall replay value, citing limitations that could deter players from revisiting the game. Atomix and ComicBook emphasize the repetitive nature of gameplay mechanics and the predictable story, which may lead to a lack of incentive for a second playthrough. Critics such as Everyeye.it and IGN Italia point out the absence of a New Game Plus mode at launch, which is a significant drawback that could diminish replayability. Furthermore, the repetitive enemy types and generic level design mentioned by VideoGamer and Voxel suggest that players might not find enough Variety to warrant multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Stellar Blade offers some replay value through its collectibles, side quests, and multiple endings, significant limitations exist that may hinder long-term engagement. Reviewers like Dexerto and TechRadar Gaming acknowledge the potential for replayability with the addition of features like a New Game Plus mode, which could enhance the experience for players. However, many critics, including those from Atomix and ComicBook, remain skeptical about the game's ability to maintain interest over time due to its repetitive elements and lack of depth in certain areas. Thus, while there are redeeming qualities, the game may not fully satisfy those seeking extensive replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Stellar Blade has garnered a Variety of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its combat mechanics, visuals, and sound design. Many reviewers, including New Game Network and IGN, praised the game's engaging combat system, which is often compared to titles like Sekiro and Nier, highlighting its depth and satisfying gameplay. The graphics have also received acclaim for their stunning quality, with critics like Dexerto and Push Square emphasizing the game's exceptional art direction and polished presentation. Additionally, the soundtrack has been noted as a standout feature, enhancing the overall gaming experience, as mentioned by Voxel and Shacknews. Many critics agree that the game provides a solid action experience, making it a worthwhile endeavor for fans of the genre. However, the game is not without its shortcomings, particularly in the areas of storytelling and character development. A significant number of reviewers, such as VideoGamer and RPGamer, pointed out that the narrative lacks depth and originality, often feeling clichéd and predictable. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Comicbook.com echoed these sentiments, noting that while the gameplay is enjoyable, the story and character arcs do not hold up to scrutiny, leading to a sense of style over substance. Additionally, some reviewers, including IGN Japan and Daily Star, mentioned issues with repetitive gameplay and minor design flaws that detract from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics is that Stellar Blade is a visually impressive and mechanically sound action game that excels in combat but struggles with its narrative elements. While some reviewers, such as God is a Geek and Multiplayer.it, found enough merit in the game to recommend it despite its flaws, others like Games.cz and Destructoid highlighted the need for improvement in storytelling and character engagement. Ultimately, Stellar Blade is seen as a promising title with potential for growth, appealing primarily to action game enthusiasts who prioritize gameplay over narrative depth. Critics agree that while it may not be a groundbreaking entry in the genre, it offers a solid experience that could pave the way for future installments.

TL;DR

Stellar Blade shines with engaging combat, stunning visuals, and an impressive soundtrack, drawing comparisons to Sekiro and Nier. However, it falters in storytelling and character development, with many reviewers citing clichéd narratives and repetitive gameplay. While critics acknowledge its shortcomings, they agree it's a solid action game that appeals to genre fans, leaving room for potential growth in future titles.

MONSTER

Reviews

234 reviews found

100

GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade exceeds expectations with its unique combat system, engaging story, outstanding visuals, sublime soundtrack, and varied gameplay. Deserves to be recognized alongside Sony's first-party offerings.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is praised for its deep combat system, incredible art direction, and beautiful soundtrack. It is considered one of the best action-adventure games of its generation, despite treading closely to its inspirations.

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GameMAG

PlayStation 5

Nov 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is praised as one of the best action-adventure games of the year, combining elements of modern sci-fi with engaging gameplay and strong visuals.

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KeenGamer

PlayStation 5

Apr 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is praised for its story, gameplay, graphics, and sound design, making it a highly recommended game for players looking for a challenging and immersive experience.

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TechRadar Gaming

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is considered an essential play for PS5 owners, offering a highly polished character action game with unique elements. The game's visuals, soundtrack, and atmosphere elevate it to potentially being one of the most unique PS5 exclusives since Returnal.

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Dot Esports

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is praised for its combat, graphics, and sound design, with minor issues in supporting cast and platforming. Seen as a standout PS5 exclusive in 2024.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is a phenomenal action game with rewarding combat mechanics to master and plenty of player individuality present via countless cosmetics. Between the terrific boss design and compelling exploration, this is a genuinely gripping experience bursting with depth and satisfaction.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is a fun, well-designed adventure that excels in combat, offers a mix of heartfelt storytelling, and provides a lot of content for players to enjoy.

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Vgames

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is a fantastic game recommended for fans of Nier: Automata and Souls-like titles, praised for its beauty and mechanics, with hopes for future installments.

GRYOnline.pl

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Stellar Blade is a visually stunning and engaging game with satisfying gameplay, despite some minor flaws. It successfully combines various elements to create an enjoyable experience.

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