Get ready for Phantom Blade Zero, a highly anticipated action game slated for a 2025 release. Recent updates reveal exciting gameplay details and dispel some common misconceptions.
Debunking the Soulslike Comparison:
While its dark aesthetic and challenging boss fights drew comparisons to Soulslike games, the game director, Soulframe, clarified that Phantom Blade Zero is not a Soulslike. The game will feature four difficulty settings (Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, Extremely Difficult), a stark contrast to the notoriously unforgiving nature of Soulslike titles. Soulframe emphasizes the game's focus on "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat that is hectic, rewarding, and exhilarating." Inspiration from Soulslike games is acknowledged in the game's level design—multi-layered maps with multiple paths and hidden areas—but the core gameplay is distinctly different. Soulframe describes it as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map."
Extensive Gameplay and Weapon Variety:
Prepare for a substantial gameplay experience. Phantom Blade Zero boasts over 30 primary weapons and 20 secondary weapons, each with unique combat attributes. Expect approximately 20-30 hours for the main story, with an additional 20-30 hours of side content. Boss battles feature at least two phases, with a convenient feature allowing players to restart from the second phase upon death. A "Li Wulin" game mode lets players rematch defeated bosses, potentially unlocking hidden encounters. An intriguing mechanic is hinted at, influencing the game's ending, though the specifics remain undisclosed.
"Year of the Snake" Gameplay Trailer and Future Announcements:
The recently released "Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer" showcases Soul, the protagonist, battling the "Chief Disciple of The Seven Stars," and highlights weapons like the "Weapon No.13 Soft Snake Sword" and "Weapon No.27 White Serpent and Crimson Viper." While a precise release date is yet to be announced, the trailer and a Lunar New Year video from Soulframe on the official Twitter (X) page promise more exciting reveals throughout the year.
Phantom Blade Zero is currently under development for PlayStation 5, with a PC release also planned. Stay tuned for further updates! Visit our Phantom Blade Zero page for the latest news.
