Lost Soul Aside's Steam release faces significant geographical restrictions, impacting player access in over 130 countries. This region lock, attributed to Sony's limitations on PlayStation-published titles, has sparked considerable player frustration and negatively affected pre-orders.
Steam Region Lock Frustrates Gamers
The region lock, confirmed by SteamDB, prevents Lost Soul Aside from appearing on Steam in countries unsupported by the PlayStation Network (PSN), despite the game not requiring a PSN account for play. This necessitates players in affected regions to create alternative Steam accounts registered in PSN-supported countries, a cumbersome workaround. The move is particularly perplexing given PlayStation's recent removal of PSN requirements for its PC titles. The resulting backlash on social media is substantial, with many gamers choosing to boycott the game due to this limitation.
A Blend of Fantasy and Realism
Since its 2016 debut, Lost Soul Aside has maintained its unique blend of fantasy elements and realistic visuals. UltiZero Games CEO, Yang Bing, discussed the game's consistent artistic direction in a February 20, 2025 IGN interview, emphasizing the enduring commitment to its high-speed, visually striking combat. The evolution from the initial 2016 trailer to the final product showcases a refinement of this core aesthetic.
Bing cited Final Fantasy XV as a key influence, particularly evident in protagonist Kaser's design, which juxtaposes stylized features with realistic texturing.
Influences from Gaming Giants
In a Famitsu interview on the same date, Bing further elaborated on the game's influences, highlighting Final Fantasy's impact on Kaser's character design, aiming for a believable yet fantastical aesthetic. The fast-paced, stylish combat draws inspiration from Bayonetta, Ninja Gaiden, and Devil May Cry, offering a dynamic and customizable experience for players of varying skill levels.
Lost Soul Aside launches May 30, 2025, on PlayStation 5 and PC. Stay tuned for further updates!
