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

Phantom Blade Zero: A Deep Dive into Gameplay, Difficulty, and Release Expectations

Recent updates on Phantom Blade Zero reveal a compelling blend of action and exploration, defying initial Soulslike comparisons. This article details the game's features and what players can anticipate in 2025.

Dispelling the Soulslike Label: Four Difficulty Settings

Contrary to initial speculation, Phantom Blade Zero will offer four distinct difficulty levels: Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, and Extremely Difficult. This directly counters the notoriously high difficulty associated with Soulslike games. Game Director Soulframe clarified on Twitter that the game's design prioritizes "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat" rather than emulating the Soulslike formula. While inspired by Soulslike titles in its level design – featuring multi-layered maps and hidden areas – the core gameplay is distinct. Soulframe described it as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map," emphasizing fast-paced hack-and-slash action within a sprawling environment.

Extensive Gameplay: Weapons, Playtime, and More

Players will have access to a vast arsenal of over 30 primary and 20 secondary weapons, each with unique combat properties. The estimated playtime for the main story is 20-30 hours, with an additional 20-30 hours of side content available. Boss battles feature at least two phases, with a convenient feature allowing players to restart from the second phase upon death. A "Li Wulin" mode lets players rematch defeated bosses, potentially unlocking hidden challenges. A currently undisclosed mechanic is confirmed to influence the game's ending, suggesting 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 like 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, the trailer strongly suggests a 2025 launch. Further exciting announcements are promised by Soulframe on the game's official Twitter (X) page.

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