Shift Up’s Earnings Report Unveils Future Plans
In a recent earnings report, Shift Up, the developer behind the sci-fi RPG Stellar Blade, has finally shed light on the anticipated sequel to the game, which has been shrouded in silence for some time. Alongside updates on the next chapter in Eve’s journey, the studio is also gearing up to share insights about its new intellectual property, currently referred to as Project Spirits.
Previously, PC gamers faced delays in accessing Stellar Blade due to a Sony exclusivity agreement. However, Shift Up is shifting gears by bringing publication in-house, a strategic move that could pave the way for a simultaneous launch of Stellar Blade 2 on PC and console platforms.
While Stellar Blade may not have reached the narrative heights of titles like NieR Automata, it compensated with a dynamic combat system. Reid’s review rated it a modest 6/10, indicating that there is room for improvement. Studio CEO Kim Hyung-tae has acknowledged the challenges posed by necessary cost-cutting measures that affected the game’s cinematic storytelling.
Last year, the sequel was quietly announced with a promise of release before 2027. Yet, details about its development have remained scarce. The latest report hints that new information will be revealed “within the year,” suggesting a potential delay in the release window. Nevertheless, the report reassures fans that “development of the next Stellar Blade title is progressing smoothly” and is “on track to meet our targeted quality standards.” This suggests that the project has not encountered significant setbacks.
Moreover, the report indicates a positive shift for PC players, as Shift Up plans to adopt a first-party service model for its upcoming titles. This transition away from Sony means that the pesky exclusivity clauses that previously hindered PC releases are no longer a concern. The expectation is that Stellar Blade 2 will launch on PC concurrently with its console versions.
As for Project Spirits, which is being positioned as Shift Up’s “next flagship title,” the studio reports that development is progressing well, supported by efficient cost management and a structured development process. Similar to the sequel of Stellar Blade, more information about Project Spirits is anticipated by the end of the year. There is hope that Shift Up will make an appearance at the upcoming Summer Game Fest, although this remains to be seen.
