The “great controversy” surrounding Stellar Blade is finally over. The censorship allegations were nonsense, as the developers have now clearly stated.
Stellar Blade is likely to be quite a success for Shift Up. The action game for the PlayStation 5 is being praised everywhere. While the (somewhat predictable) story is often a point of criticism, the fantastic combat system with a strong soundtrack and plenty of variety has earned the game good reviews.
However, a controversy has kept fans and a certain part of the internet on edge since the “Day 1 Patch”. One of the protagonist’s outfits was changed in the patch. The neckline of a costume was covered with additional fabric, and even some knee-high socks reduced the exposure of skin.
The accusation that was in the air: There was last-minute censorship.
This was the accusation: Fans quickly came up with the theory that these adjustments must have been demanded by Sony. They wanted to tone down the game’s lewdness a bit to avoid problems and be more successful worldwide. Some complained and demanded their money back from Sony after purchasing, arguing that it was “false advertisement. “
Sony granted some refunds, which for many amounted to an admission of guilt.
This is the truth: In an interview, the developers of Stellar Blade (via gameabout) talked about the reasons for the adjustment when asked. CEO Kim Hyeong-tae explained:
The final result is present after the Day One Patch. The final result we want to present to buyers is included in the first patch.
I also think that just because the costumes are vulgar, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are good. So this was modified for quality reasons. Therefore, there are places where the eroticism has been toned down and those where it has been emphasized. This is the final product we want to show as the intended result.
Or, phrased a little more clearly: It was the developers’ decision to adjust the costumes a bit more to meet their quality standards.
This would now likely clarify once and for all: The alleged “censorship” did not come from Sony at all, but from the developers themselves, who gave their product the final touches just before release.
Cortyn says: To be honest, I didn’t quite understand all the debates about the small piece of fabric that covers the neckline in a single outfit. Because Stellar Blade has several costumes for Eve that are even more revealing than what has allegedly been “censored” – including bikinis or simply lingerie. If there had actually been an external adjustment ordered somewhere, then obviously with the even bolder outfits that are all still in the game – but hey, I was thrilled by Stellar Blade anyway.
At least this story can finally be put to rest.
