South Korean developer Shift Up released an official music video for its upcoming action game Stellar Blade: Blood Rain that has drawn widespread criticism from fans over its heavy use of generative AI.
About the Music Video
The video, titled “‘Wanna be in LOVE’ Feat. Evie,” appeared on the studio’s YouTube channel around July 30-31, 2026. It features the sequel’s new protagonist, Evie, performing an original song while moving through a dystopian cyberpunk city environment similar to footage shown in the game’s Summer Game Fest announcement trailer. The clip runs several minutes and includes performance sequences, city exploration, and staged “behind-the-scenes” moments that depict Shift Up staff interacting with an AI-generated version of the character.
YouTube’s content labels clearly mark the upload with “Made with AI” and note that “sounds or visuals were altered or fully generated.” Viewers quickly pointed out typical generative AI artifacts, including inconsistent facial features on Evie across different shots, distorted background details, and nonsensical text on objects in the environment.
Developer Stance on AI
Shift Up CEO and Stellar Blade director Kim Hyung-tae promoted the video and invited feedback from the community. The studio has been open about its interest in AI tools. Earlier in 2026, Kim stated that AI is an “essential tool” for smaller teams to compete with larger studios, particularly those in China that can field 1,000 to 2,000 staff on a single project, while Shift Up typically works with around 150 people. He argued that the technology allows “one person to perform the work of 100 people” without necessarily eliminating jobs.
Fan Reactions
Fan response has been largely negative. Comments on YouTube and social media repeatedly called the video “AI slop.” One of the most common reactions was simply “Are we deadass?” Other viewers expressed disappointment that the studio chose generative tools instead of using its own game assets or traditional animation for official promotion. Some longtime supporters said the video made them worry that similar techniques could appear in the finished game’s cutscenes or environments.
A minority of comments struck a more neutral or amused tone, with a few players saying they found the result funny or that it would not change their view of the Summer Game Fest trailer. Still, the overall reception has tempered excitement that followed the sequel’s reveal. Stellar Blade: Blood Rain currently has no confirmed release date.
The original Stellar Blade, released in 2024, earned praise for its combat, character designs, and soundtrack. The studio’s decision to lean so visibly on generative AI for this early piece of sequel marketing has left many fans questioning how the technology will factor into the final product.
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