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

Phantom Blade Zero: 20-30 Hour Adventure with Customizable Difficulty and Extensive Weaponry

Prepare for a thrilling adventure in Phantom Blade Zero, boasting four difficulty settings and a wealth of gameplay features. This 2025 release promises a captivating experience, defying initial Soulslike comparisons.

Debunking the Soulslike Label: Four Difficulty Levels

Contrary to initial perceptions, Phantom Blade Zero offers players a choice of four difficulty levels: Easy, Ordinary, Difficult, and Extremely Difficult. This directly counters the "Soulslike" comparisons stemming from its dark aesthetic and challenging combat. Game Director Soulframe clarified on Twitter that the game's design prioritizes "combo-driven, heart-pumping combat" rather than unrelenting difficulty. While inspired by Soulslike games in terms of level design (multi-layered maps, multiple paths, hidden areas), the core gameplay is distinctly different, described as "Ninja Gaiden Combat on a Souls Game Map."

Extensive Gameplay: Weapons, Playtime, and More

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, with an additional 20-30 hours of side content. Boss fights feature at least two phases, offering a convenient restart option from the second phase if defeated. A "Li Wulin" mode allows players to rematch previous bosses, unlocking hidden challenges. An intriguing mechanic is hinted at, influencing the game's ending, though details remain scarce.

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 pending for 2025, further announcements are promised, hinting at exciting reveals.

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