As anticipation builds for the PC release of Stellar Blade, developer SHIFT UP has taken steps to address concerns surrounding the game’s DRM implementation and regional restrictions. These issues have sparked heated discussions among fans, prompting the studio to clarify their stance and outline potential solutions.
In a recent Twitter (X) announcement on May 17, SHIFT UP confirmed that the game's integration of Denuvo (DRM) has undergone extensive optimization to minimize performance impacts. According to their tests, the average frame rate remains consistent whether the DRM is enabled or disabled, with improvements even noted in minimum framerates in some scenarios. While the studio acknowledged the ongoing controversy surrounding DRM, they emphasized that the game retains full modding support—a feature often restricted by similar technologies. Fans expressed appreciation for the transparency but hoped the team would eventually opt for a DRM-free version to enhance accessibility.
Another pressing issue revolves around the game's region-locking, particularly its compatibility with PlayStation systems. Although Stellar Blade does not require a PlayStation Network (PSN) connection, certain regions worldwide remain inaccessible due to PSN restrictions. Currently, over 130 countries are unsupported by PSN, leaving players in those areas unable to access the game. In response, SHIFT UP reassured fans that they are actively negotiating with publishers to resolve the issue. They promised that both the PC and PS5 versions will deliver identical content, ensuring early adopters won’t face disadvantages during future updates.
Despite the positive developments, many gamers still advocate for a DRM-free and region-unrestricted experience. For now, Stellar Blade is scheduled to launch on PC via Steam on June 11. Stay tuned for more updates as the release approaches!
