PS5 hit 'Stellar Blade' is reportedly being considered for the Switch 2

Stellar Blade on PS5 could debut on Switch 2; Shift Up begins early dev, no confirmation yet.

: Stellar Blade, acclaimed on PS5, may soon see a release on Nintendo's anticipated Switch 2. Developer Shift Up has reportedly acquired a development kit for the Switch 2 and started initial porting work, although they emphasize nothing is yet confirmed. There’s also speculation on whether Sony Interactive Entertainment will publish the game for the Switch 2, a possibility given its history of releasing games like Lego Horizon Adventures on Nintendo devices. Stellar Blade recently succeeded on Steam Deck, raising hopes for successful performance on Switch 2's upgraded specs.

Stellar Blade, a surprise hit on the PlayStation 5 from developer Shift Up, is reportedly being considered for release on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The developer has obtained a development kit for the new console and has initiated groundwork for a potential port. A representative from Shift Up noted that while there is ongoing internal discussion, no final decision has been made regarding a release on the new platform. The company has equipped its team with Switch 2 units, signaling preparatory steps that align with serious consideration for this move.

The central issue rests on whether Sony Interactive Entertainment will handle publication duties for the Switch 2 version. Sony has previously extended its titles to Nintendo hardware, including releasing games like Lego Horizon Adventures concurrently with the PS5. This establishes a precedent for possible cooperation between the two giants if Stellar Blade makes the jump. The consideration comes after Stellar Blade's successful adaptation on the Steam Deck, suggesting it could manage slightly reduced frame rates if required on the Switch 2.

The Nintendo Switch 2's technical advancements are also a compelling factor. Titles such as Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition and Street Fighter 6 are reportedly running excellently, aligning with the graphical demands expected by today's gamers. Digital Foundry's technical analysis of Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2 praised its performance, drawing favorable comparisons to the Xbox Series S edition. This bolsters confidence that Stellar Blade, known for its high-quality graphics, could find a home on the Switch 2, providing players with an enhanced portable gaming experience.

In the broader context of gaming trends, the move could signify a push for cross-platform releases amongst major developers, leveraging different consoles' strengths to reach wider audiences. Nintendo's enhancements in the Switch 2 aim to bridge gaps between handheld and home console gaming, offering performance capabilities similar to traditional consoles. This potential inclusion of Stellar Blade highlights a gradual blurring of boundaries between exclusive games and cross-platform opportunities as hardware capabilities converge.

Sources: Nintendo Life, PlayForum, Video Games Chronicle, Push Square

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