Developer Shift Up is scouting locations for Stellar Blade 2, with strong hints pointing to a post-apocalyptic Chongqing setting. The move signals a clear pivot toward China, which accounted for 70% of the first game's PC sales. Teasers shared via the official X account suggest a cyberpunk aesthetic rooted in the city's signature multi-layered urban design.

The original game drew vague inspiration from North Africa and the Middle East. This time, the Chinese market appears to be the primary influence shaping world-building decisions. Shift Up’s recent hiring push confirms active development, signaling that a sequel is genuinely on the way.

Industry analysts see this as a strategic effort to deepen engagement in Asia’s largest gaming market. With China’s appetite for story-driven action titles, the sequel’s locale could boost global sales. Fans should expect a launch in several years, judging by the early development stage.

Chongqing’s futuristic skyline and vertical architecture align well with the series’ dystopian themes.