Shift Up, the developer behind the critically acclaimed action-adventure game Stellar Blade, recently rewarded its employees with a generous year-end bonus: a PlayStation 5 Pro and approximately $3,400. This significant gesture follows the game's remarkable success since its April 2024 launch.
Stellar Blade, despite initial minor controversies, quickly became a major hit on the PS5, boasting an 82 average score on OpenCritic and garnering numerous awards and nominations. Its fast-paced combat, stunning art style, and captivating soundtrack have all contributed to its popularity. The game's continued success is further fueled by high-profile collaborations.
A heartwarming video shared on Twitter showcased Shift Up's over 300 employees receiving their PlayStation 5 Pros. This bonus, coupled with the substantial cash reward, aims to incentivize and appreciate the team's hard work. The company's financial success is evident, having raised $320 million in its South Korean stock market debut in July 2024.
Stellar Blade's momentum continues with successful crossovers, including a Nier: Automata DLC in November 2024 and a future collaboration with Goddess of Victory: Nikke. A holiday event further enhanced player engagement in December.
Looking ahead, a PC port of Stellar Blade is slated for release in 2025, a move anticipated to further boost the game's already impressive sales figures (1 million PS5 units sold within its first two months). Shift Up's confidence in the PC market is high, suggesting even greater success for Stellar Blade in the future.