Stellar Blade's recent update, boasting a highly anticipated Photo Mode and NieR: Automata DLC, unfortunately introduced several critical bugs. However, developer Shift Up is actively working on a hotfix.
Game-Breaking Bugs and the Hotfix
Patch 1.009, while delivering the promised Photo Mode and DLC collaboration, also caused significant issues. Players are reporting softlocks during a specific main quest in an earlier dungeon, preventing progression. Additionally, the selfie camera in Photo Mode is causing crashes for some, and new cosmetic items aren't rendering correctly.
Shift Up advises against attempting to force quest completion. Instead, they recommend waiting for the hotfix to avoid potential permanent softlocks.
NieR: Automata DLC and Enhanced Photo Mode
The 1.009 update includes the much-anticipated NieR: Automata collaboration. The developers highlight the significant inspiration NieR: Automata provided, emphasizing the collaborative spirit between Director Kim Hyung Tae and Director Yoko Taro. Eleven exclusive collaboration items are available through Emil, who has set up shop within Stellar Blade's game world.
The addition of Photo Mode fulfills a long-standing player request. This feature allows players to pose protagonist Eve and her companions for customized snapshots. New photo challenges further enhance this feature.
Further additions include four new outfits for Eve, a new accessory (post-ending completion) altering Tachy Mode, a "No Ponytail" option, lip-sync support for six additional languages, improved projectile auto-aim and bullet magnet functions for the instant death skill, and various minor bug fixes.