Phantom Blade Zero: 22 Minutes of Gameplay, and It’s Still Not a ‘Souls-like’, Creator Reminds Us

Phantom Blade Zero Fueling Anticipation with Fast-Paced Action and Devil May Cry-like Combat (Chinese Martial Arts Focus)

Chinese studio S-Game recently provided updates on its upcoming game, Phantom Blade Zero, which continues to generate significant buzz. A new 22-minute gameplay video has further fueled this excitement. During an event in Beijing on July 26 and 27, select media and content creators gained hands-on experience with a fresh build of the game, distinct from the one showcased at the Summer Game Fest in June. Players praised its energetic gameplay, thoughtful combat design, and variety of available weapons, noting its captivating aesthetics and innovative combat mechanics. Since its announcement, Phantom Blade Zero has often been mistakenly categorized as a Soulslike. However, developers clarified in Los Angeles last month that it is an action game focused on Chinese martial arts. This distinction became even clearer after players experienced the combat demo, which revealed a faster-paced style more akin to Devil May Cry or Ninja Gaiden. Creators consistently emphasize that Phantom Blade Zero is not a Soulslike, even after showing extensive gameplay. While Phantom Blade Zero does not yet have an official release date, reports suggest a 2026 launch for PlayStation 5.

Phantom Blade Zero’s Unique Combat and Cultural Aesthetic – Difficulty Levels for Varied Playstyles

A developer clarified the game’s distinct nature, stating, “Phantom Blade Zero isn’t your typical Soulslike or action game. We’ve spent years diving deep into [these] creations, drawing inspiration and learning from their awesomeness. While developing this game, we took an unexpected detour. Initially, our plan was to combine hack-and-slash with a complex, multi-layered map. Yet, as the animations and environments came to life, everything got tangled up by a strong cultural aesthetic, resulting in something truly unique.” The current demo offers three difficulty levels to accommodate various playstyles: Gamechanger: The default setting, offering a balanced blend of challenge and enjoyment, suitable for new players. Wayfarer: A more accessible mode specifically designed for those with minimal action game experience. For the final version of Phantom Blade Zero, players can unlock Hellwalker, a hardcore mode available exclusively in New Game+. This challenging mode features a savvier AI, revamped attack patterns, and exclusive moves designed for players seeking an intense combat experience. These options ensure that both new and veteran players can find a suitable challenge within Phantom Blade Zero.

In Case You Missed It

If you’re a fan of fast-paced action and innovative gameplay, be sure to check out Carlos Mendoza’s latest piece titled “Phantom Blade Zero Revealed in 22-Minute Gameplay Footage,” published on July 27, 2025. In this article, Mendoza delves into S-game’s ambitious new title, showcasing its unique blend of Wuxia aesthetics and intense ARPG gameplay during the recent S-party event in Beijing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gamer looking for a challenge, Phantom Blade Zero promises something exciting with its three distinct difficulty levels. Dive into the details and watch the gameplay footage at Phantom Blade Zero Revealed in 22-Minute Gameplay Footage. For those eager to dive deeper into the world of Phantom Blade Zero, check out our recent post by Jonathan Dubinski where he breaks down an extended gameplay video from S-party 2025. Released on July 28th, this insightful piece explores the intricate combat mechanics and artistic vision behind the game, which is set to blend elements from various “Souls-like” titles while introducing its own unique flair. Discover more about the mysterious enemies and exciting gameplay features at Phantom Blade Zero Showcases Extended Gameplay Video. For those who are fans of dark and challenging gameplay but are looking for a touch of lightness, Sophie Laurent’s latest piece on “Wuchang Fallen Feathers” is well worth your time. Published on June 26th, this insightful review dives into the world of Bai Wuchang, a female pirate warrior whose tale unfolds in a vibrant universe reminiscent of the late Ming Dynasty. While it borrows elements from popular titles like Bloodborne and Lies of P, Wuchang Fallen Feathers offers its own unique visual identity and engaging combat system that focuses on speed and precision. Don’t miss out on Sophie’s detailed analysis; you can read more about this promising Souls-like game Wuchang Fallen Feathers: Played, Between Bloodborne and Lies of P, Yet Lighter Atmosphere.

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Jonathan Dubinski

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