The highly anticipated action RPG Stellar Blade has earned the moniker “Korean Nier,” much to the delight of its director, Hyung-Tae Kim. Kim, a passionate admirer of Yoko Taro, the mastermind behind the Nier series, considers it a great honor for his game to be associated with such a renowned title. In an interview with GamesRadar+, Kim shared insights into the influences and inspirations that shaped Stellar Blade, emphasizing the impact of Nier on their creative process. However, he advised players not to expect a carbon copy, as the gameplay in Stellar Blade sets it apart from its beloved predecessor.
Kim openly acknowledged the significant role Nier played in the development of Stellar Blade. The captivating storytelling and ingenious writing of Yoko Taro’s script left an indelible mark on Kim, making this comparison all the more meaningful. Stellar Blade draws inspiration from Nier, paying homage to its groundbreaking design and captivating narrative. However, upon experiencing Stellar Blade first-hand, players will quickly notice the distinctive qualities that separate it from Nier, showcasing the unique vision of the development team.
While Nier holds a special place in Kim’s heart, it is not the only source of inspiration for Stellar Blade. Kim candidly admitted that other renowned titles, such as Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bayonetta, also influenced the game’s development. Drawing from the strengths of these games, the team at Shift Up combined elements to craft their own distinct experience in Stellar Blade. The essence of Sekiro’s challenging combat and Bayonetta’s fluid action were skillfully interwoven to create a game that stands on its own.
One cannot discuss Stellar Blade without acknowledging its visually appealing aesthetics. Kim shed light on the unique visual style that marries realism with a touch of character deformity. As a Korean developer, the influence of the Korean art style, as seen in games like Black Desert Online, is undeniable. However, Stellar Blade strives to find its own identity within this style, striking a delicate balance between realism and stylized character design. The result is a visually stunning world that is both captivating and distinct.
In addition to video games, Stellar Blade draws inspiration from other mediums, such as the post-apocalyptic manga series Battle Angel Alita and the ’80s sci-fi masterpiece Blade Runner. These elements merge the best of both East and West, creating a game that resonates with a global audience. Stellar Blade’s diverse influences weave together seamlessly, contributing to a rich and immersive experience that sets it apart from its peers.
Stellar Blade stands as a testament to the power of inspiration and the art of combining various influences to create something entirely new. While it may draw comparisons to Nier and other notable games, Stellar Blade offers a unique gameplay experience that defies easy categorization. Its visual style, influenced by the Korean art scene, sets it apart from the crowd while drawing from a global pool of inspiration. As players embark on this epic journey, they will bear witness to the harmonious fusion of different cultural influences and the artistic vision of the development team behind Stellar Blade.
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