Stellar Blade Slices onto PC: Release Date, Specs, and a PSN Account Controversy Brewing?
Gear up, PC gamers! The visually stunning and action-packed Stellar Blade is confirmed to launch on PC on June 11th, bringing Eve's mission to a whole new audience. But, as Eve prepares to liberate a fallen Earth on desktops worldwide, a potential storm is brewing regarding PlayStation Network (PSN) account linking, reminiscent of the Helldivers 2 debacle.
PC Specs and Enhancements
The PC version promises to deliver a visually superior experience with support for NVIDIA DLSS 4, AMD FSR 3, and unlocked frame rates, ensuring the game pushes your rig to its limits. Wide resolution support, including ultrawide 21:9 and super ultrawide 32:9, will allow players to immerse themselves in the desolate landscapes like never before. High-resolution textures are also supported, accentuating the game’s already impressive art style.
The game fully supports the DualSense controller, with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, bringing a unique level of immersion to PC gaming. For those who prefer traditional controls, full user key customization for gamepads, keyboards, and mice will also be available.
Free DLC Content Coming to Both PC and PS5
Both PC and PS5 players are in for a treat! The PC launch will coincide with the release of a free DLC update, including 25 new Nano Suits for Eve and a challenging new Boss Challenge featuring Mann, the leader of the Sentinels. Shift Up is also including the new outfit Crimson Wing as a token of gratitude to every user.
Furthermore, the game now supports Simplified Chinese and Japanese facial animations, aiming to provide a more immersive narrative experience.
The PSN Account Link Controversy
However, the PC launch isn't without its potential issues. Reports are surfacing that Stellar Blade is blocked for pre-order on Steam in over 100 countries, seemingly due to a requirement for a PlayStation Network (PSN) account. This echoes the controversy surrounding Helldivers 2, which faced massive backlash and was eventually delisted in many regions after Sony attempted to mandate PSN linking.
What makes this situation even more surprising is that Shift Up, the developer of Stellar Blade, seems unaware of this restriction. In replies to concerned fans, they've expressed confusion, stating that a PSN account shouldn't be necessary for the Steam version. The developer stated: "The PC version of Stellar Blade does not require a PSN account. May I ask where you live?"
It's possible that Sony, as the publisher, has implemented this requirement, leading to a communication breakdown with Shift Up. Many are hoping the situation is resolved before the game’s official launch on PC to avoid similar outrage to the Helldivers 2 situation.
Denuvo DRM
One other point that is already set in stone is that in order to play Stellar Blade on Steam, you will require the controversial digital rights management software Denuvo. Shift Up assures that there's "no performance degradation due to DRM. Even on lower-end systems, you can enjoy the game in beautiful quality!" Whether or not that truly holds true remains to be seen.
The Future of Eve's Mission on PC
Stellar Blade's PC arrival promises to be a visually stunning and content-rich experience. However, the PSN account controversy casts a shadow over the launch. Will Sony address the issue before June 11th, or will Stellar Blade face a similar fate to Helldivers 2? What are your thoughts on PSN account linking for PC games? Let us know in the comments below!
