Phantom Blade Zero: A Deep Dive into the Upcoming Wuxia ARPG
2025-07-28 00:01:43Recently, extensive gameplay footage of Phantom Blade Zero has emerged online, offering fans an unprecedented look at this highly anticipated title. Developed by Chinese studio S-Game, Phantom Blade Zero is a wuxia-inspired action RPG built using Unreal Engine 5. The game boasts a dynamic combat system that has already captured the attention of gamers worldwide. Set for release on PlayStation 5 and PC, Phantom Blade Zero is expected to launch in 2025, with a potential window extending into 2026.
First unveiled during the 2023 PlayStation State of Play, Phantom Blade Zero has been marketed as a genre-defying wuxia action game. While S-Game has previously shared glimpses of Phantom Blade Zero's gameplay, including a full boss fight earlier this year, the latest footage provides the most comprehensive look yet.
Extended Gameplay Showcase
Several YouTube channels, such as GamersPrey, have uploaded 50 to 60-minute gameplay demos, highlighting Phantom Blade Zero's combat, level design, and enemy variety. These recordings stem from S-Party, a two-day event hosted by S-Game in Beijing on July 26-27, where select players and content creators were granted access to a demo build.
Difficulty Settings and Player Feedback
Contrary to earlier leaks suggesting four difficulty options, the demo featured three settings: Breaker, Initiate, and Defier. Players who tackled the hardest mode, Defier, reported a steep challenge, with some struggling to reach the first boss. It remains unclear whether the full game will include an additional difficulty level.
S-Game CEO Soulframe Liang has emphasized that Phantom Blade Zero is neither a Soulslike nor a traditional action game, but a unique hybrid. Early impressions liken its combat to a fusion of Devil May Cry, Sekiro, and Ninja Gaiden, with subtle Soulslike elements such as bonfires and healing mechanics.
Anticipation and Future Showcases
With hype building, many are curious if Phantom Blade Zero can match the success of Black Myth: Wukong. Fans won't have to wait long for more content, as the game is slated to appear at China Joy 2025 (August 1-4) and Gamescom 2025 (August 20-24), where a global demo will be available.