The director of the highly anticipated action RPG, Stellar Blade, expresses his gratitude for the comparison to “Korean Nier,” a nickname commonly used by fans, citing his admiration for Yoko Taro, the creative force behind the Nier series.
During an interview with GamesRadar+, game director Hyung-Tae Kim, speaking through a translator, elaborated on the influences and inspirations behind Stellar Blade, particularly drawing from the Nier series. He acknowledges the significance of Nier as a source of inspiration for their game’s development, emphasizing his admiration for Yoko Taro’s storytelling prowess.
Kim clarifies that while Stellar Blade draws inspiration from Nier, the gameplay experience is distinct, urging players not to expect a mere replication. He emphasizes the homage paid to influential games while highlighting the unique elements present in Stellar Blade.
The director has previously discussed other titles that have influenced Stellar Blade, such as Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bayonetta, along with sources like the manga series Battle Angel Alita and the sci-fi film Blade Runner. He underscores the studio’s approach of blending the strengths of various games to create something new and compelling.
Addressing Stellar Blade’s visual style, Kim notes the influence of Korean aesthetics while striving to carve out a unique identity. The team draws inspiration from Korean media like K-pop, movies, and dramas to craft distinct character designs, contributing to the game’s Korean flair.
Kim emphasizes his personal aesthetic evolution, which has been incorporated into Stellar Blade’s development. The game’s recent trailer, showcased during a PlayStation State of Play event, unveiled its April release date, heightening anticipation among fans.