Stellar Blade Fans Accuse Character Designer of 'Uglification'

Naughty Dog's concept artist sparked a heated online debate after sharing artwork of Stellar Blade's protagonist, Eva, on X. The artwork depicts Eva with a more masculine appearance, prompting widespread criticism from fans. Many comments labeled the design as unattractive, ugly, and even repulsive, with some suggesting the designer intentionally made Eva appear "awakened."

This controversy follows recent criticism of Naughty Dog's inclusion of explicit DEI content in their upcoming game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. The game's trailer holds the record for most dislikes, surpassing even Concord's earlier record. This latest incident further fuels concerns about the studio's design choices.

The negative reaction stands in stark contrast to the overwhelmingly positive reception of Shift Up's original Eva design. Her conventionally attractive appearance was a major factor in Stellar Blade's success, making her a beloved character among gamers. The new design, therefore, represents a significant departure from the aesthetic that contributed to the game's popularity.