Phantom Blade Zero is said to feature four distinct difficulty settings, alongside fresh details about its gameplay mechanics. Learn more about the game's development progress and what players can anticipate when it launches in 2025.
Latest Updates on Phantom Blade Zero's Development
Phantom Blade Zero Breaks From Soulslike Mold with Four Difficulty Settings
Recent reports indicate that Phantom Blade Zero will offer four difficulty levels: Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, and Extremely Difficult. Although the game's visual style and combat drew comparisons to Soulslike titles after its PlayStation Showcase 2023 debut, the inclusion of multiple difficulty options sets it apart. This is a notable departure from the Soulslike genre, which is known for its demanding challenge and lack of difficulty selection.
Game Director Soulframe addressed this topic directly in an official tweet following the Summer Game Fest 2024 presentation. He emphasized that creating another Soulslike was never the intention, stating, "We aimed for combo-driven, adrenaline-fueled combat that feels intense, satisfying, and thrilling."
While Phantom Blade Zero's grim atmosphere and memorable boss encounters have drawn parallels to Souls games, Soulframe acknowledged drawing inspiration from the genre's interconnected level design, multiple pathways, and hidden areas. However, he clarified that "the similarities end there." He previously characterized the experience as "Ninja Gaiden-style combat within a Souls-inspired world," merging fast-paced action with expansive exploration.
Expansive Gameplay: Over 30 Weapons, 20-30 Hour Campaign, and Additional Features
Additional information from recent interviews reveals that players will have access to more than 30 primary weapons and 20 secondary weapons, each offering unique combat styles and effects. The main storyline is estimated to take 20-30 hours to complete, with side content providing another 20-30 hours of gameplay.
Boss encounters will typically include at least two phases. If players are defeated during the second phase, they can restart directly from that phase instead of repeating the first. A new mode called "Li Wulin" allows players to rematch previously defeated bosses, unlocking new hidden challenges along the way.
The game will also incorporate a mechanic that influences the story's conclusion, though specific details about how it affects gameplay and the number of possible endings remain undisclosed.
Phantom Blade Zero Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer
Phantom Blade Zero released a "Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer" showcasing the protagonist, Soul, in a battle against the "Chief Disciple of The Seven Stars." Following the boss fight, the trailer highlights various weapons Soul can wield, such as the "Weapon No.13 Soft Snake Sword" and "Weapon No.27 White Serpent and Crimson Viper."
The trailer confirms that Phantom Blade Zero's release date will be announced in 2025. The official Phantom Blade Zero Twitter (X) account also shared a Lunar New Year video, where Soulframe mentioned the team has numerous exciting updates planned for the year ahead, including a reveal of something entirely new for fans.
Phantom Blade Zero is currently in development for PlayStation 5, with a PC version also planned. An official release date has yet to be confirmed.
Visit our Phantom Blade Zero page for the most current news and updates on the game.
