It won’t be long before the sequel to a fan-favorite 2024 PS5 console exclusive action adventure game is revealed, but there’s a catch. Shift Up’s Stellar Blade was published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, but its sequel won’t be, and the studio has explained why.
Stellar Blade 2 might not be PS5 console exclusive
In a recent earnings presentation, Shift Up confirmed that it will reveal Stellar Blade 2 in 2026. However, it’s now in a position to publish its own game and wants to dictate its own marketing strategy.
Shift Up says that self-publishing will allow Stellar Blade 2 to reach “a global audience” on day one, and its marketing will reflect the “distinct identity” of Stellar Blade. Shift Up also mentioned Stellar Blade’s fandom.
The studio’s statement is being interpreted in multiple ways. Some think that Shift Up wants to release Stellar Blade 2 on all platforms on day one — something the studio has already hinted at before. However, others think that Shift Up’s statement suggests that Sony didn’t market Stellar Blade as “openly” as it would have liked.
Stellar Blade turned out to be a massive success for both Sony and Shift Up, but there was quite a bit of chatter about the sexualization of its female lead.
Was Sony reserved in its marketing of Stellar Blade? Let us know your thoughts.
