Stellar Blade PC Release: Region Locks, Specs, Features & Developer Reaction

May 17, 2025 Kiran

Stellar Blade, the high-octane action RPG originally released as a PlayStation 5 exclusive, is making headlines again—this time for its long-awaited PC release. While fans welcomed the move with enthusiasm, the rollout has been marred by unexpected restrictions, surprising technical choices, and developer confusion.

Here’s everything you need to know about Stellar Blade on PC—from system requirements and features to region lock issues and what’s coming in the free update for console players.

Blocked in Over 120 Countries: A Surprise to Even the Developers

One of the biggest shocks came when it was discovered that Stellar Blade’s PC version is blocked on Steam in over 120 countries. This region lock includes markets in Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Eastern Europe—regions where the game had an active fan base.

According to reports, even the developers at Shift Up were taken by surprise, suggesting that the restrictions were likely imposed by the publisher or platform policies, not by the development team itself.

The block is widely believed to be tied to PlayStation Network (PSN) account linking requirements or DRM policies, similar to controversies seen with other Sony-published games on Steam.

DRM and Denuvo: PC Version Includes Anti-Tamper Software

Another controversial aspect of the PC version is its inclusion of Denuvo, a digital rights management (DRM) tool that has often been criticized for negatively affecting performance. While the developer has stated that it helps prevent piracy and early leaks, it remains a point of contention for PC gamers, especially among those who value performance and modding freedom.

Additionally, some users report that modding support is limited, and the game’s Steam Workshop integration is restricted, likely due to the presence of Denuvo and region-based controls.

System Requirements: Surprisingly Accessible

Despite the advanced visuals and fast-paced gameplay, Stellar Blade is surprisingly lightweight on system requirements, making it accessible to a broad range of PC gamers.

Minimum Requirements:

OS: Windows 10 64-bit
CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1060 (6GB) or AMD RX 580 (8GB)
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 45 GB HDD or SSD

Recommended Requirements:

CPU: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2070 or AMD RX 6700 XT
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 45 GB SSD (recommended for faster loading)

This means that even a mid-range PC from 2016–2018 can run the game, though newer GPUs will obviously benefit from better visuals and smoother framerates.

New Content & Features: Not Just a Port

The PC version isn’t just a simple port. It includes:

New boss fight not available in the original PS5 release
25+ additional costumes for the main character Eve
Unlocked framerates, DLSS/FSR upscaling support, and full keyboard/mouse remapping
Ultra-wide display compatibility and HDR enhancements

To sweeten the deal, the new boss and costume packs will also be released for PS5 as a free update, ensuring parity between versions and rewarding loyal console players.

Why Is It Region Locked?

While no official statement has been released, experts believe the reason stems from:

PSN Integration: Like other recent Sony-published PC games, Stellar Blade may require or encourage users to sign in with a PlayStation Network ID. Some regions, especially those without official PSN support, are automatically restricted.
Content Rating and Regulations: The game’s mature content may not meet local content rating board standards in various countries.
DRM Distribution Policy: The use of Denuvo and other anti-piracy tools may conflict with local privacy or consumer laws.

This situation echoes recent controversies around Helldivers 2, where a post-release PSN login requirement led to Steam delisting in over 170 countries—before backlash forced a reversal. It remains unclear whether Stellar Blade’s publisher will reconsider.

What’s Next for Stellar Blade on PC?

Despite these setbacks, there is optimism. Many fans are hopeful that the developer or publisher will:

Lift or adjust the regional restrictions after feedback
Provide clear communication regarding PSN requirements
Eventually remove Denuvo, as has happened with other titles after launch

For now, PC players in supported regions can wishlist or pre-order the game via Steam, while those affected by the lockout may have to wait for alternative distribution options.

In Summary:

Stellar Blade is coming to PC, but Steam access is blocked in 120+ countries.
The developers were unaware of the block, pointing to publisher-side decisions.
PC version includes Denuvo DRM, drawing mixed reactions.
System requirements are very forgiving, allowing even older PCs to run it.
Includes new boss fight, costumes, and free updates for PS5 users too.
No official statement yet on whether region restrictions will be lifted.