The director of the highly anticipated action RPG, Stellar Blade, expressed his gratitude for the game being called the “Korean Nier.” In an interview with GamesRadar+, game director Hyung-Tae Kim revealed the influences and inspirations behind Stellar Blade, specifically drawing inspiration from the Nier series. While he acknowledges the comparison, he also emphasizes that Stellar Blade’s gameplay differs from Nier. Nonetheless, Kim considers it a great honor to be associated with such a renowned title.
Kim expands upon the various sources that influenced the development of Stellar Blade. Apart from Nier, games like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bayonetta, along with the post-apocalyptic manga series Battle Angel Alita and the iconic ’80s sci-fi film Blade Runner, had a significant impact on the game. However, Kim clarifies that Stellar Blade is not necessarily similar to these games but rather took inspiration from their strengths, amalgamating them into a unique experience.
Stellar Blade’s director also delves into the game’s distinctive visual style. As a Korean developer, Kim acknowledges the influence of the Korean art style, notably seen in popular titles like Black Desert Online. However, he emphasizes the studio’s continuous efforts to carve out their own visual identity, striking a balance between realism and a slightly deformed character style.
While Stellar Blade draws inspiration from various sources, it has its own distinct gameplay that sets it apart from its influences. Kim urges players not to expect a Nier lookalike and promises that the differences will become evident when they get to experience the game firsthand. Stellar Blade pays homage to the games that have influenced its development but also introduces its own unique mechanics.
Stellar Blade is a testament to the passion and admiration of the development team for the titles that sparked their creativity. Although comparisons to Nier and other influential games are flattering, the team remains focused on crafting a game that stands on its own merits. With its diverse range of inspirations and a distinct visual style, Stellar Blade aims to create a captivating experience that will resonate with players worldwide. As the release date approaches, anticipation grows for this highly anticipated Korean action RPG.
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