With the highly anticipated Stellar Blade 2 already in the works and promises of more information to come from Shift Up by 2026, now is an opportune moment to delve into Eve’s inaugural adventure. Released on PC last June, Stellar Blade has garnered an overwhelmingly positive response, and currently, Fanatical is offering a 30% discount on both editions of the game.
Engaging Combat Mechanics
The game showcases one of the most engaging combat systems seen in recent years. Players step into the shoes of Eve, a warrior who descends from the cosmos to reclaim a post-apocalyptic Earth from the clutches of alien creatures known as Naytibas. The gameplay involves reading enemy patterns, executing parries with precision, and chaining together dazzling combos that blend the disciplined approach of soulslike games with the high-octane flair reminiscent of Devil May Cry.
However, it’s important to note that the narrative does not quite match the intensity of the combat. The characters lack depth, and the storyline often fails to deliver surprises. In our review of Stellar Blade, Reid describes the plot as “a serviceable enough sci-fi tale without any outstanding elements [that] ultimately falls flat.” This sentiment has been acknowledged by Shift Up’s CEO, indicating that feedback will be taken into consideration for the sequel.
A Visual Feast
Much like a summer blockbuster, Stellar Blade embraces style and spectacle, even if it sacrifices some narrative substance. The game presents a concise 25-hour campaign packed with collectibles to discover, ensuring that it doesn’t overstay its welcome. While players admire the perfectly sculpted characters, they are also treated to a variety of uniquely grotesque monsters, including bugs, earth elementals, and embodiments of decay, which add a layer of horror to the otherwise polished aesthetic. For fans of the genre, this contrast enhances the overall experience, while the boss battles are consistently impressive, featuring animations and sound design that linger long after victory is achieved.
Edition Options and Discounts
The Standard Edition, now available for .99 / £41.99 on Fanatical, offers everything most players would need. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, the Complete Edition is priced at a reduced .99 / £55.99 and includes the NieR: Automata and Goddess of Victory: NIKKE collaboration DLC packs, exclusive cosmetics such as the Fluffy Bear Pack drone and a Planet Diving Suit for Eve, as well as a key for a Stellar Blade collaboration costume in Goddess of Victory: NIKKE.
This offer is valid only until Monday, February 23, 2026. Missing this opportunity may mean waiting an indeterminate amount of time for such a deal to resurface.
