Nintendo Switch's latest free offering is a AAA action-adventure with a controversial sequel on the way

Nintendo Switch 2 players can now download a free demo for Stellar Blade, one of the most talked-about action-adventure games of the past two years, ahead of its upcoming sequel, Stellar Blade: Blood Rain, announced at Summer Game Fest 2026.

Following the release of Stellar Blade in 2024 on PlayStation 5 and PC, on November 5 this year, it’s finally coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 as the Stellar Blade Complete Edition, bundled with all previously released DLC. However, its playable demo is available to download now via the Nintendo eShop.

The free playable demo will include the opening section of Stellar Blade, which will conclude with a boss battle. It’s a solid introduction to the game's setting, combat and Eve as a character.

Despite the controversy that surrounded Stellar Blade at launch, it’s a very fun action game, especially if you’re a fan of Bayonetta, Devil May Cry, and NieR: Automata.

“This gorgeous and fun game knows exactly what it is. Stellar Blade is an absolute blast, and I’ve not had this much fun in the genre since Devil May Cry 5. If for whatever reason Stellar Blade flew under your radar, it needs to be added to your 2024 to-play list right now,” I said in my review, scoring it an “Exceptional” 9/10.

Why was Stellar Blade controversial? Eve's character design explained

When the action-adventure Stellar Blade was released in 2024, it faced backlash over the sexualisation of its main character, Eve, due to her revealing outfits that complemented her figure. Some players also accused developers Shift Up and publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment of censoring her compared to pre-release marketing footage.

However, the game's director, Hyung-Tae Kim, denied the censorship claims, stating that what players saw represented the final costumes the studio had originally intended.

REVIEW: Stellar Blade review: Total non-stop action

Stellar Blade: Blood Rain, Shift Up

Why is Stellar Blade: Blood Rain controversial?

In a nutshell, following its reveal trailer during Summer Game Fest in June 2026, some gamers criticised the appearance of the new protagonist, Evie, as having a deliberately designed younger appearance, and this caused a stir due to the sexualised nature of the 2024 game. Interestingly, Stellar Blade: Blood Rain will be self-published by Shift Up.

During an interview with Korean outlet Iven, Hyung-Tae Kim said that Evie’s design is to complement her aggressive combat style.

Stellar Blade: Blood Rain is a continuation of the original game, rather than a direct sequel. However, Hyung-Tae Kim has also teased that Eve, from the original game, will have a significant connection.

Technically speaking, with its demanding visuals and performance, Stellar Blade is a high-end game, so it will be interesting to see how well it performs on Nintendo Switch 2, especially when playing in docked mode.

While the Stellar Blade: Blood Rain platforms haven't been officially confirmed by Shift Up at the time of writing, it's safe to assume it will be headed to PlayStation 5 and PC. If it eventually lands on Nintendo Switch 2, perhaps Stellar Blade Complete Edition will give us a good indication of how well it could perform on the hybrid console.

Stellar Blade: Blood Rain does not currently have a release date.