Shift Up, the developer behind the critically acclaimed action-adventure game *Stellar Blade*, recently celebrated the game’s success by awarding each of its 300+ employees a substantial year-end bonus. This generous reward included a PlayStation 5 Pro console and approximately $3,400 in cash. The bonus reflects the studio’s appreciation for the team’s hard work in delivering *Stellar Blade*, a title that quickly became one of 2024’s most popular games.
Released in April 2024, *Stellar Blade* garnered an average score of 82 on OpenCritic, earning praise for its fast-paced combat, stunning art direction, and memorable soundtrack. While initial controversy surrounded the protagonist’s attire, the game’s overall reception was overwhelmingly positive, leading to numerous awards and nominations. The game’s success even prompted renowned game creator Yoko Taro to declare it “better than *NieR: Automata*,” a claim the *Stellar Blade* director promptly refuted.
The significant financial success of *Stellar Blade* is undeniable. Shift Up raised a staggering $320 million on the South Korean stock market before its initial public offering, making it the second-largest IPO in the country that year. This financial achievement underscores the game’s popularity and its positive impact on the studio’s financial standing.
Following the game’s successful launch, *Stellar Blade* continued to expand with collaborations and updates. A *NieR: Automata* DLC dropped in November 2024, introducing new items and costumes. A collaboration with *Goddess of Victory: Nikke* was also announced in late December, although details remain scarce. A holiday-themed event in mid-December further enriched the game’s experience, adding festive decorations to the city of Xion, new music, and additional costumes.
Initially a PlayStation 5 exclusive, *Stellar Blade* is set to receive a PC port in 2025, with Shift Up anticipating strong sales on this new platform. The game’s initial success on PS5 was remarkable, achieving one million units sold within its first two months. The upcoming PC release promises to further expand *Stellar Blade*’s reach and solidify its position as a leading action-adventure title.