Lost Soul Aside's Steam Release Frustrates Gamers Due to Sony's Region Lock
UltiZero Games' upcoming action RPG, Lost Soul Aside, faces significant backlash from PC gamers due to a region lock impacting over 130 countries on Steam. This restriction, stemming from Sony's limitations on PlayStation-published games, prevents the game from appearing on Steam in regions unsupported by the PlayStation Network (PSN), despite not requiring a PSN account to play.
This baffling decision, especially considering PlayStation's recent removal of PSN requirements for its PC titles, has ignited widespread frustration among PC players. Many are expressing their anger on social media and forums, with many choosing to boycott the game entirely. Workarounds, such as creating a Steam account in a PSN-supported region, are proving inconvenient and unsatisfactory.
A Blend of Fantasy and Realism
Since its 2016 reveal, Lost Soul Aside has captivated audiences with its unique blend of fantasy elements and realistic visuals. UltiZero Games CEO, Yang Bing, discussed the game's artistic direction in recent interviews with IGN (February 20, 2025) and Famitsu (February 20, 2025). The core style, including the fast-paced, stylish combat, remains consistent with the initial 2016 trailer, though refined and matured over the years.
Influences from Gaming Giants
Yang Bing highlighted key influences, including Final Fantasy (particularly in protagonist Kaser's design, blending realistic textures with stylized features), and the fast-paced combat styles of Bayonetta, Ninja Gaiden, and Devil May Cry. The game aims to offer depth and customization within its action-oriented combat system, allowing players to develop their own preferred fighting styles.
Lost Soul Aside launches May 30, 2025, on PlayStation 5 and PC. The region lock, however, casts a significant shadow over the PC release, leaving many potential players disappointed and questioning the decision.
