Stellar Blade director Hyung-Tae Kim his Crusade for Game Diversity
In a realm dominated by the never-ending quest for profit, one visionary dares to dream differently. Hyung-Tae Kim, the mastermind behind Stellar Blade and the CEO of Shift Up Studio, is casting aside industry norms to champion the cause of diversity in the gaming world. In an illuminating conversation with Ruliweb (Translation by GameRadar), Kim unveils his bold stance against the grain, advocating for the richness of variety over the bland pursuit of profitability.
A Beacon of Hope in a Sea of Sameness
As the digital waves crash against the shores of creativity, threatening to erode the cliffs of innovation, Kim stands firm. He observes a landscape cluttered with games designed to perpetuate their own existence, churning the waters with endless updates and DLCs. Yet, amidst this tumultuous sea, Kim seeks to steer his ship in a different direction. "The games industry needs more diversity," he declares, envisioning a future where console titles and single-player experiences with definitive conclusions shine as beacons for players yearning for genuine closure.
The Challenge of Creation
The journey of bringing Stellar Blade to life is no mere stroll through tranquil gardens. It's a grueling expedition through storms, where the rising costs of game development loom like towering waves, threatening to capsize aspirations. Kim acknowledges the well-intentioned advice that echoes through the halls of the industry: prioritize games with higher operating margins, they say, games that promise less financial risk and greater returns. Yet, Kim's resolve remains unshaken. He believes in crafting experiences that resonate on a deeper level, experiences that dare to conclude, that dare to say, "This is the end."
A Symphony of Endings
Kim's philosophy is a clarion call to the industry, a plea for a tapestry of games as diverse as the players themselves. "It's healthier for the market to continue making these games," he asserts, stressing the importance of their coexistence with the sprawling live-service titles that currently dominate the scene. This isn't just about offering players a game; it's about offering them a journey with a destination, a story that concludes, leaving them both satisfied and reflective.
A Commitment to Generosity
Looking ahead, Kim's vision for Stellar Blade encompasses not just the game itself but how it will continue to evolve post-launch. While not entirely dismissing the idea of additional content, he assures that Shift Up will not nickel-and-dime its audience. Costumes, a New Game Plus mode—these will be the studio's gifts to the players, free of charge. It's a refreshing stance in an era where every extra is often seen as an opportunity to extract more from the players' wallets.
The Vanguard of Variety
Hyung-Tae Kim's commitment to diversity in gaming is more than just a noble ideal; it's a necessary revolution. As the industry teeters on the edge of homogeneity, voices like Kim's remind us of the power of diversity—not just in the games we play but in the stories they tell and the experiences they offer. Stellar Blade is not merely a game; it's a statement, a declaration that the end of a journey can be just as important as its beginning. In Kim's world, variety isn't just the spice of life—it's its very essence.