If you end up playing Stellar Blade, you want to remember one thing: There are many “missables” and points of no return-areas where you cannot go back. Powerful equipment, story-specific choices, or collectible items missing them can be frustrating if you’re aiming for 100% completion or the best ending. But don’t be worried; here’s a step by step guide that will help you stay ahead of the curve.
Points of No Return in Stellar Blade
There are moments in the game where through your choices, you are locked out of older areas. These can easily be missed, so here’s a rundown of the notable ones:
- The Orcal’s Testimony includes a major decision. Choosing to follow Adam’s suggestion will cut off the side quests and hidden items in Xion City.
- During the Burning Xion chapter, if you decide to follow Lily’s lead and leave by chasing the motorcycle signal, that’s it—you’re officially locked out of all previous zones.
- Affection plays a big role in how the story ends. Maxing out Lily’s Affinity gives you the “Making New Memories” ending (which fans consider the true ending). Miss the mark, and you’ll get the regular one. Again, New Game+ offers a second shot.
- And don’t forget about drone upgrades—those choices are final. Unlike Eve’s skill tree, which you can reset, whatever upgrades you apply to your drone are permanent, with no option to respec.
Missables in Stellar Blade
Exospines, Gear, and Collectibles (like Cans and Nano Suits)
Progression in Stellar Blade isn’t always forgiving. If you breeze through certain main missions without wrapping up earlier tasks, you’ll lose access to side quests, upgrades, and even some pretty sweet gear. For example, exospines, nano suits, and collectible cans won’t always be available if you don’t pick them up before moving on to specific story milestones.
But hey—there’s a silver lining: New Game+ saves the stuff you’ve already found. So even if you overlook something, you’ll get another chance to collect it during your next playthrough.
How to Avoid Missing Out
If you’re worried about missing content, there are some in-game features that can help you stay on top of things:
- Return Trips Are Possible: If you didn’t clear out Eidos 7 when you first got there (especially during the Scavenger Adam segment), you can return later—but only after you complete the Altess Revoire mission once you’re based in Xion.
- Skills Can Be Reconfigured: Unlike the drones, you’re not locked into Eve’s skill setup. If you want to reset your build, look for SP Initializers (you’ll find them in chests, smashable objects, or in shops for a bit of gold). Just head to a Skill Settings Machine at any camp to make the swap.
- One Save File Only: The game auto-saves every time you rest, and you only get one save slot per playthrough. So if you’re experimenting or want to backtrack later, be careful where and when you rest.
- Stuck on a Tough Fight? Don’t stress about your initial difficulty choice. You can adjust the difficulty setting mid-game whenever things feel overwhelming—or too easy.
Final Thought
If you’re aiming for completion or just want to enjoy all the game has to offer, Stellar Blade rewards careful planning and observation. Keep an eye on those key story choices, clean up quests and collectibles as you go, and you’ll be in a great spot to experience everything—without the regret of “I should’ve done that earlier.” And if something slips through the cracks? That’s what New Game+ is for.
