While the idea of single-player, AAA games suddenly switching on basketfuls of microtransactions on launch remains a somewhat-warm topic, an interview with Stellar Blade developers SHIFT UP has caught some attention online thanks to the mention of the game’s post-launch support and the lack of paid microtransactions.
The interview happened with Korean outlet, Ruliweb, just prior to the game’s free demo dropping on the Playstation Store, but has more recently been picked up by the wider internet after popular X account, Genki, shared a snippet of it.
In the interview, which covers over a number of topics, the team is asked about DLC and post-launch support for Stellar Blade, with general director Hyeong-tae Kim confirming that there won’t be any paid microtransactions on offer. Further to that, the studio is planning to offer updates after launch that add new costumes for protagonist EVE for free, along with gameplay additions like a New Game+ mode.
The only exception to this would be if the studio teamed up with other creators to launch outfits based on external IP, which would likely come with a fee.
“We want to make it clear at this point that Stellar Blade will not require any additional expenses that gamers are not aware of beyond what they paid for the package,” Kim confirmed (translation by Genki). “The only exception is if we create collaboration costumes with another company’s IP, those may be sold for a fee. Also, there is no New Game+ in the launch version, so please look forward to it being updated very soon.”
Stellar Blade Director Kim Hyung Tae says they are preparing additional costumes and NG+ as free updates for after the games release!
– No microtransactions, except for if they do costume collaborations with another company's IP!
"We want to make it clear at this point that… pic.twitter.com/1suC1LsBxI
— Genki? (@Genki_JPN) April 4, 2024
Stellar Blade launches on April 26th exclusively for PS5. A free playable demo is available now that allows players to sample the first stage of the game, with progress carrying over to the full release. You can pre-order the game now on Amazon at a discounted price of $109 with free release day delivery.
