Phantom Blade Zero Playtime Estimated to be 20-30 Hours with Adjustable Difficulty

Phantom Blade Zero is shaping up to be a compelling action RPG, offering a substantial 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: A Unique Action RPG Experience

While initially compared to Soulslike games due to its aesthetic and combat, Phantom Blade Zero distinguishes itself with four distinct difficulty settings: Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, and Extremely Difficult. This directly contradicts the notoriously unforgiving nature of Soulslike titles. Game Director Soulframe clarified on Twitter following Summer Game Fest 2024 that the game was never intended to be a Soulslike, emphasizing the focus on "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat that is hectic, rewarding, and exhilarating."

The game's dark world and challenging boss fights certainly draw inspiration from the Soulslike genre, particularly in its multi-layered maps and multiple approach paths. However, Soulframe confirmed that the similarities end there, describing the gameplay as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map," a blend of intense hack-and-slash action and extensive exploration.

Gameplay Features: Weapons, Playtime, and More

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

Boss battles will feature at least two phases, and players who fall in the second phase can restart from that point, avoiding a repeat of the first. A new game mode, "Li Wulin," allows players to rematch previously defeated bosses, potentially unlocking hidden encounters. A mysterious mechanic is also hinted at, influencing the game's ending, though the details remain undisclosed.

Phantom Blade Zero "Year of the Snake" Gameplay Trailer

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 hasn't been announced, the trailer strongly suggests a 2025 launch. Further announcements are promised by Soulframe on the official Twitter (X) page, hinting at exciting reveals yet to come.

Phantom Blade Zero is currently in development for PlayStation 5, with a PC release also planned. Stay tuned to our Phantom Blade Zero page for the latest updates.