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

Phantom Blade Zero: A Deep Dive into Gameplay and Development

Prepare for a thrilling adventure in Phantom Blade Zero, boasting a range of features and an estimated playtime of 20-30 hours. New details have emerged regarding gameplay mechanics and difficulty, clarifying its unique identity.

Dispelling the Soulslike Comparisons: Difficulty Options and Combat Focus

Phantom Blade Zero will offer four difficulty settings: Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, and Extremely Difficult. This directly counters comparisons to Soulslike games, which are typically known for their unforgiving difficulty. The game director, Soulframe, explicitly stated that the game was not designed to be a Soulslike, emphasizing its focus on "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat" that is both challenging and rewarding. While inspired by Soulslike titles in terms of level design – featuring multi-layered maps and hidden areas – the core gameplay experience is distinct. Soulframe described it as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map," blending fast-paced action with exploration.

Extensive Weaponry, Replayability, and Unique Boss Encounters

Players can expect a vast arsenal of over 30 primary and 20 secondary weapons, each with unique combat properties. Beyond the main storyline (estimated 20-30 hours), an additional 20-30 hours of side content is anticipated. Boss fights are designed with at least two phases, and players who perish during the second phase can restart from that point, eliminating the need to replay the first. A new game mode, "Li Wulin," allows players to re-engage previously defeated bosses, potentially unlocking hidden challenges. A currently undisclosed mechanic is said to influence the game's ending, hinting at multiple possible outcomes.

Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer and Future Announcements

The recently released "Year of the Snake Gameplay Trailer" showcases Soul, the protagonist, battling the "Chief Disciple of The Seven Stars," and highlights weapons such as the "Weapon No.13 Soft Snake Sword" and "Weapon No.27 White Serpent and Crimson Viper." While a release date is yet to be announced, it's expected sometime in 2025. Soulframe has teased further announcements and reveals in the near future.

Phantom Blade Zero is currently under development for PlayStation 5, with a PC release also planned. Stay tuned for further updates!