Stellar Blade Draws Inspiration From Nier: Automata, Features Both Linear & Semi-Open World Areas

Sony Interactive Entertainment and Shift Up’s upcoming action adventure game, Stellar Blade, takes inspiration from Nier: Automata, and it features both linear and semi-open worlds areas.

Speaking during an interview, Stellar Blade director Kim Hyung-tae and technical director Lee Dong-g at Shift Up shared new details regarding the game, including the various works of fiction that inspired it.

Regarding the various sources of inspiration for the game, Kim mentioned that he was influenced by the dystopian worldview science fiction works of the 1980s and 1990s, including a manga called “Gunm”. Nier: Automata gave the Stellar Blade director the opportunity to rediscover what kind of games he wanted to make. Other influences include games like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bayonetta. Sci-fi movies from the 80s and 90s, including Blade Runner, were also a source of inspiration.

As far as the structure of Stellar Blade’s game world, Zion, is concerned, Kim stated that the earlier section of Stellar Blade is linear, though it still offers some exploration. Once you enter the city of Zion, it becomes a semi-open world where you can freely explore. After that, you will go to another linear area, and the game will continue to mix linear sections and open world. Kim ensures that players will enjoy a seamless and smooth experience without any interruptions, suggesting that the game will take advantage of the PS5’s fast loading and data streaming capabilities.

Regarding the combat, Kim said that Stellar Blade is played by making full use of combos, though the game is not only about attacking. It’s also important to read and react to the enemy’s attacks. It is important to aim for a parry or a perfect dodge, and then follow it up with a combo. As you improve your timing, you will be able to enjoy very speedy attacks and defenses, he said.