The action-adventure game Stellar Blade took the gaming world by storm in 2024, and now its sequel, Stellar Blade 2, is on the horizon.
Shift Up, the South Korean developer behind the original, has confirmed the project, sparking excitement among players.
With a likely 2026 release, this next chapter promises to elevate the experience with new tech and expanded storytelling.
Here's what you need to know about the upcoming release.
Background
The original Stellar Blade, released on April 26, 2024, for PlayStation 5, sold over 1 million units by June 2024, a major win for a new IP.
Its PC version followed on June 11, 2025, broadening its reach.
@ASOGameNews praises the game's responsive combat, blending fast-paced action with strategic depth, and its stunning visuals that craft an immersive post-apocalyptic world, but notes the engaging story lacks originality, relying on familiar sci-fi tropes, earning it an 8/10.
The game's multiple endings and a post-credits tease hinted at more to come, setting the stage for Stellar Blade 2.
Shift Up, previously known for mobile titles like Goddess of Victory: Nikke, made a bold leap into consoles with Stellar Blade.
Their $320 million IPO in 2024 has fueled ambitious plans, including the sequel and other projects like Project Witches, expected by 2027.
(Source: SHIFT UP's IR Book-Q1 2025)
Release Information
Shift Up's May 16, 2025, investor presentation confirmed Stellar Blade 2, with a release targeted for 2026, ahead of their 2027 timeline for other projects.
While platforms aren't fully confirmed, expect PlayStation 5 and PC, with speculation about Xbox Series X/S or Nintendo Switch 2.
Development Insight
(Translated from Korean)
Job listings suggest the game will use Unreal Engine 5, promising a visual upgrade from the original's Unreal Engine 4.
The studio's focus on Unreal Engine 5 points to enhanced graphics and smoother gameplay, addressing some critiques of the first game's tech.
Gameplay & Story
Little is known about the plot or features, but Shift Up's CEO, Hyung-Tae Kim, hinted at "many ideas" for a fresh narrative direction.
Stellar Blade 2 is likely to refine the original's fast-paced combat you loved, with its parrying, dodging, and combo chains, adding new enemy types or abilities.
The Beta Gauge system, which powered special moves, may return with tweaks.
With Unreal Engine 5, expect richer environments and more immersive exploration, building on the first game's post-apocalyptic world.
The original's story, while engaging, was criticized for being predictable.
The sequel might dive deeper into Eve's journey, exploring new worlds or conflicts, as hinted by the first game's endings.
Editor's Comments
Stellar Blade 2 is poised to capitalize on its predecessor's success, and Shift Up's confidence suggests a bigger, bolder sequel.
The move to UE5 could set it apart visually, especially compared to competitors like Bayonetta or Devil May Cry, which share similar action-packed gameplay.
Its edge lies in its fresh IP status, free from decades-long franchise baggage, allowing creative freedom.
Will it outshine its rivals in storytelling? That's the big question, as the original's narrative was its weakest link.
Given Shift Up's resources and fan enthusiasm, expect a strong contender in 2026, potentially redefining action-adventure standards.
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