Phantom Blade Zero: 20-30 Hour Playthrough

Phantom Blade Zero is shaping up to be a compelling action RPG, boasting a projected playtime of 20-30 hours and offering four difficulty levels to cater to diverse player preferences. This 2025 release promises a refined experience, building upon previous reveals and addressing player expectations.

Phantom Blade Zero Development Updates

Debunking the "Soulslike" Label: Four Difficulty Options and a Focus on Fluid Combat

While initial comparisons to Soulslike games arose due to its aesthetic and challenging combat, Phantom Blade Zero's developers have clarified its distinct identity. The inclusion of four difficulty settings—easy, ordinary, difficult, and extremely difficult—directly counters the notoriously unforgiving nature of Soulslike titles. Game Director Soulframe emphasized on social media that the game's design prioritizes "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat that is hectic, rewarding, and exhilarating," a clear departure from the deliberate pacing often found in Soulslike games.

Although inspired by Soulslike titles in its multi-layered maps, multiple approach paths, and hidden areas, Soulframe confirmed the similarities end there. He previously described the gameplay as a blend of "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map," highlighting the fusion of fast-paced hack-and-slash action with extensive exploration.

Extensive Gameplay: Weapons, Playtime, and Replayability

Recent interviews have unveiled further details about Phantom Blade Zero's gameplay. Players can expect a vast arsenal of over 30 primary and 20 secondary weapons, each with unique combat properties. The main storyline is estimated to take 20-30 hours to complete, with an additional 20-30 hours of content available through side quests and exploration.

Boss encounters feature at least two phases, and a thoughtful design allows players to restart from the second phase after a death, eliminating needless repetition. A "Li Wulin" game mode introduces the opportunity to rematch previously defeated bosses, potentially unlocking hidden challenges and further extending playtime. A mysterious mechanic is also teased, hinting at an impact on the game's ending and the possibility of multiple narrative outcomes.

Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer and Future Announcements

The recently released "Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer" showcased Soul, the protagonist, battling "Chief Disciple of The Seven Stars," and highlighted several weapons, including "Weapon No.13 Soft Snake Sword" and "Weapon No.27 White Serpent and Crimson Viper." The trailer suggests a 2025 release, and the game's official Twitter (X) account promises further exciting announcements throughout the year.

Phantom Blade Zero is currently in development for PlayStation 5, with a PC release also planned. While a concrete release date remains unannounced, anticipation is building for this action-packed RPG.

Stay tuned to our Phantom Blade Zero page for the latest updates.