The successful release of the PC version of Stellar Blade has once again brought Shift Up into the spotlight in South Korean media. CEO Kim Hyun-tae has given an update on the game's development and revealed some details about the sequel, which is planned for 2027.
At the start of Stellar Blade's development, South Korea was short of story game specialists and the cost of creating cutscenes was high, which affected the final version. The high cost of cutscenes led to a reduction in elements that deepened the characters and story, other than the main plot. The company plans to address these issues, related to the lack of personnel and a systematic approach, in the sequel.
The sequel was originally conceived as DLC, but the volume of material has grown to a full-fledged game. The project is in the research and development stage of new mechanics, with a focus on the concept of the next generation. The plot of the sequel will be deeper than the story of the first part about the identity of AI and human nature, and will offer more complex themes.
The PC version of Stellar Blade has exceeded expectations. The company supports mods, but warns against those that break mechanics, and welcomes mods that expand the gaming experience.
Kim Hyun-tae thanked the players for their support, noting Stellar Blade's contribution to strengthening the position of Korean games in the global market, and promised to eliminate the shortcomings.