Phantom Blade Zero is shaping up to be a compelling action RPG, boasting a reported 20-30 hour playtime and adjustable difficulty. This article delves into recent development updates, revealing exciting gameplay features and a glimpse into what awaits players in 2025.

Phantom Blade Zero Development Updates

Debunking the Soulslike Label: Four Difficulty Options Unveiled

While its aesthetic and combat initially drew comparisons to Soulslike games, Phantom Blade Zero will offer four distinct difficulty levels: Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, and Extremely Difficult. This directly counters the notoriously unforgiving nature of Soulslike titles. Game Director Soulframe clarified on Twitter following its Summer Game Fest 2024 appearance, emphasizing that the game's design prioritizes "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat that is hectic, rewarding, and exhilarating," not the creation of another Soulslike experience. While acknowledging inspiration from Soulslike games in its level design—multi-layered maps, multiple approaches, and hidden areas—Soulframe stated that the similarities end there, describing the gameplay as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map."

Extensive Gameplay: Weapons, Playtime, and More

Recent interviews have shed light on additional gameplay details. Players can expect a vast arsenal of over 30 primary and 20 secondary weapons, each with unique properties. The main story is estimated to take 20-30 hours to complete, with an additional 20-30 hours of side content. Boss fights feature at least two phases, offering a convenient restart option from the second phase upon death. A new game mode, "Li Wulin," allows players to rematch defeated bosses, potentially unlocking hidden encounters. A mechanic influencing the game's ending has been teased, though the specifics remain shrouded in mystery.

Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer and Beyond

The recently released "Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer" showcases Soul, the protagonist, battling the "Chief Disciple of The Seven Stars." The trailer also highlights several weapons, including "Weapon No.13 Soft Snake Sword" and "Weapon No.27 White Serpent and Crimson Viper." While a release date remains unannounced, the trailer suggests a 2025 launch. A Lunar New Year video on Phantom Blade Zero's official Twitter (X) page hinted at further exciting announcements and previously unseen content later this year.

Phantom Blade Zero is currently under development for PlayStation 5, with a PC release also planned. Stay tuned for further updates on our Phantom Blade Zero page.