Stellar Blade Launches Update 1.008 with PS5 Pro Support

Stellar Blade has rolled out its latest Update 1.008, introducing support for the PlayStation 5 Pro. As one of 2024’s standout PS5 exclusives, it's no surprise the game is receiving an update ahead of the PS5 Pro’s release.

Originally launched in April, Stellar Blade garnered positive feedback, boasting an average score of 82 on OpenCritic. Reviewers praised the game's action-packed gameplay, intense boss battles, and deep customization options. However, some critics felt the story lacked depth. Despite this, Stellar Blade was a financial hit, selling over a million copies.

Now, developer Shift Up has rolled out the 1.008 patch, not only adding support for the PS5 Pro but also addressing some lingering minor bugs. Post-update, players can now choose between five distinct graphic modes, with two exclusive to the PS5 Pro.

Before the update, gamers had access to three modes: Prioritize Performance, Balanced, and Prioritize Resolution. The new patch introduces Pro and Pro Max modes. Pro mode is an enhanced version of Balanced, while Pro Max focuses on boosting frame rates. According to the patch notes, these higher frame rates will reduce input lag even further, although they require a display that supports 120 Hz output for optimal performance.

For those hoping for fresh content, Update 1.008 doesn’t include new additions. However, fans can look forward to an exciting Stellar Blade and Nier: Automata crossover DLC set to arrive later in 2024, which promises to bring thrilling new content.

While PS5 players will soon enjoy this upgraded version of Stellar Blade, the game is still not available on PC. A few months ago, Shift Up confirmed a PC port is in the works, slated for release "in the near future." Speculation suggests it could launch before the end of 2024, but no official release date has been announced.

Given the game's commercial success, many believe Shift Up is already planning a sequel. Rumors hint that Stellar Blade 2 could be developed using Unreal Engine 5, which would represent a significant upgrade in terms of graphics. The original game was built using Unreal Engine 4, but the shift to Unreal Engine 5 could take the visuals to the next level, making it a logical progression for the franchise.

Stellar Blade Update 1.008 Patch Notes:

- Added support for PlayStation 5 Pro.

- Introduced High Frame Rate (HFR) Mode to further reduce input lag and improve frame rate performance.

HFR Mode Requirements:

- The display must support 120 Hz output.

- Enable 120 Hz Output in PS5 settings (Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output).

Available Graphics Modes:

- Prioritize Performance: Focuses on maximizing frame rate.

- Balanced: A compromise between resolution and frame rate.

- Prioritize Resolution: Focuses on providing the best visual quality.

- Pro: An upgraded Balanced Mode for the PS5 Pro, enhanced with PSSR for improved performance.

- Pro Max: An optimized Prioritize Resolution Mode for the PS5 Pro, delivering higher frame rates.

- Minor bug fixes.

With this update, Stellar Blade continues to enhance its gameplay experience, solidifying its place as a must-play PS5 title while setting the stage for even greater things in the future.