Phantom Blade Zero: Development Updates and Gameplay Features

As we eagerly await the 2025 release of Phantom Blade Zero, the game's development team has been busy sharing exciting updates. From its unique difficulty options to a rich array of gameplay features, let's dive into what makes this game stand out.

Phantom Blade Zero Not A Soulslike, Features Four Difficulty Options

Contrary to initial fan comparisons to Soulslike games after its reveal at the PlayStation Showcase 2023, Phantom Blade Zero distinguishes itself with four distinct difficulty options: easy, ordinary, difficult, and extremely difficult. This move away from the Soulslike formula was emphasized by Game Director Soulframe following the game's feature at Summer Game Fest 2024. In a tweet, Soulframe clarified that creating another Soulslike was never the intention. Instead, the focus is on delivering "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat that is hectic, rewarding, and exhilarating."

While the game draws inspiration from Soulslike titles with its multi-layered maps, multiple approach paths, and hidden secrets, Soulframe insists that "the similarities stop there." He describes Phantom Blade Zero as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map," merging intense hack-and-slash action with expansive exploration.

Gameplay Features With Over 30+ Weapons, 20-30 Hours of Playthrough, And More

Recent interviews have shed light on several gameplay aspects of Phantom Blade Zero. Players can look forward to choosing from an impressive arsenal of 30 primary and 20 secondary weapons, each offering unique effects and combat styles. The main story is estimated to take 20-30 hours to complete, with an additional 20-30 hours of side content, ensuring a rich and varied experience.

Boss encounters in the game are designed with at least two phases, and if players fail during the second phase, they can resume from there without replaying the first. A new game mode, "Li Wulin," allows players to challenge previously defeated bosses, unlocking new hidden bosses along the way. Additionally, there's a mechanic that influences the game's ending, though details on its impact and the number of alternate endings remain undisclosed.

Phantom Blade Zero Year Of The Snake Gameplay Trailer

The "Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer" showcases the protagonist Soul in a thrilling battle against the "Chief Disciple of The Seven Stars." Following the fight, the trailer highlights weapons Soul can wield, such as the "Weapon No.13 Soft Snake Sword" and "Weapon No.27 White Serpent and Crimson Viper." The trailer also hints that the release date for Phantom Blade Zero will be announced in 2025.

To celebrate the Lunar New Year, the game's official Twitter (X) page released a video where Soulframe teased more exciting announcements throughout the year, promising to unveil something fans have never seen before.

Phantom Blade Zero is currently in development for PlayStation 5 and is planned for release on PC as well. While no official release date has been announced, fans can stay updated by visiting our dedicated Phantom Blade Zero page.