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Analysis: Stellar Blade studio rewards employees with Apple watches, Airpods & 5 million won bonuses

👤 By Connect Quest Analyst via Connect Quest Artist

📅 12-01-2026 15:13

✅ Analytical - Independent Analysis

⏱️ 3 min read

Stellar Blade Studio's Employee Rewards: A Model for the Gaming Industry

Celebrating Success: Stellar Blade Surpasses 3 Million Sales

SHIFT UP Corporation, the brains behind the popular game Stellar Blade, recently celebrated the achievement of selling over 3 million copies of the game. As a token of appreciation, the studio gifted its employees Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. This milestone follows previous rewards such as PS5s in 2021 and PS5 Pros in 2025.

Recognizing Employee Contributions: Perks and Bonuses

SHIFT UP's generosity towards its employees does not stop at consoles. The studio has a history of rewarding its team members for their contributions to the company's success. In 2023, employees received iPhone 14 devices as a recognition for the company's growth. In 2026, the studio went a step further, presenting Apple Watches (Series 8+), AirPods Max, and a 5 million KRW bonus (approximately $3,500 USD) to over 300 developers.

The Impact of Stellar Blade: A Potential Gaming Giant

Stellar Blade, which debuted as a PS5 exclusive in 2024, has been compared to the acclaimed franchise, NeiR, due to its potential for growth. The game's success on the PC platform, with the fastest Korean Steam launch ever, created record Q2 earnings and generated $47 million in royalties, 72% higher than the previous year.

Implications for North East India and the Gaming Industry

The gaming industry in North East India is on the rise, and initiatives like those at SHIFT UP could serve as a blueprint for other studios. By fostering a positive work environment and recognizing employee contributions, companies can attract and retain top talent, ultimately leading to the creation of high-quality games and financial success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Stellar Blade and the Gaming Industry

As Stellar Blade continues to grow and evolve, the gaming industry in North East India and beyond will likely follow suit. The success of SHIFT UP's employee rewards program highlights the importance of valuing and investing in people, setting a positive example for the industry as a whole.

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