Stellar Blade 2 could release outside of PS5 day one, as SHIFT UP plans to self-publish the sequel. Check out how the South Korean studio will handle the next game in the sci-fi franchise and what other projects the studio has in store.
Stellar Blade 2 and Other Projects Detailed by SHIFT UP
Stellar Blade Sequel Moving to a First-Party Service Model
Stellar Blade 2 may not be a PlayStation 5 exclusive, as developer SHIFT UP has announced plans to transition to a self-publishing model. As revealed in the studio’s Q1 2026 Business Report, this new strategy positions the sequel to "reach a broad global audience from day one."
"This will allow us to lead marketing strategies that fully reflect the distinctive identity of the
While Stellar Blade initially began as a PlayStation exclusive title with Sony providing publishing and funding, its subsequent PC release was marred with various issues. Most notably, the game was region-locked in areas without PSN access, which became a huge hurdle for PC players and may have influenced SHIFT UP’s decision to pursue a self-published sequel.
Although PS5 exclusivity hasn't been ruled out, the strong performance of Stellar Blade’s release on PC last year likely encouraged SHIFT UP to pursue a multi-platform, day-and-date launch for the sequel.
They noted that the sequel’s development is "progressing smoothly," and is on track to meet their quality standards. "With three key tailwinds — high-quality self-publishing capabilities, a sales maximization strategy, and a proven IP fanbase — we are confident the next title will deliver meaningfully improved results compared to its predecessor," the studio stated.
Late last year, during SHIFT UP’s Q2 2025 Business Report, the developers expressed their enthusiasm for Stellar Blade 2, highlighting its expanded world and enhanced gameplay. The developers promised to share more details about the project within the year.
UNBOUND Partnership, Project Spirits Progress, and More
Aside from the highly anticipated Stellar Blade sequel, SHIFT UP is also looking forward to its other projects and ventures. One of which is their new partnership with UNBOUND, a studio led by former Resident Evil director, Shinji Mikami.
Earlier in April, SHIFT UP acquired the Japanese studio, which is currently "developing original PC and console-based IPs targeting the global market." On the partnership announcement video, Mikami said, "I believe this is an ideal partnership that allows us to focus on creativity. We will do our best to create fun games so that both companies, working as one, can meet our fans’ expectations."
SHIFT UP stated that details on UNBOUND’s projects will be shared with the public progressively.
Another title that the South Korean video game studio is working on is Project Spirits, which is described as "a subculture-style game based on an Eastern fantasy worldview, and is being developed as a cross-platform game encompassing mobile, PC, and console."
This endeavor is poised to be SHIFT UP’s next flagship title and, according to the developers, is progressing well. While not much has been revealed for the game, the development team would like to express their gratitude to fans for their continued interest and promise to share more details later this year.
As for their current games, Goddess of Victory: NIKKE and Stellar Blade, the studio plans to continue developing and supporting both franchises to maximize their long-term value for the community. NIKKE just recently celebrated its 3.5th anniversary update, while Stellar Blade is about to conclude its PUBG crossover.
Sources:
SHIFT UP 1Q 2026 Business Performance Results & Factsheet
SHIFT UP announces full integration of UNBOUND, studio led by Shinji Mikami
SHIFT UP x UNBOUND | Partnership Announcement ft. Shinji Mikami
