Having already seen how fast-paced and challenging Phantom Blade Zero can be, we were more than eager to get into the action when the opportunity presented itself. And that’s exactly what we were able to do at Tokyo Game Show 2024 with the help of S-Game, and it was clear to see why there were snaking queues of equally eager industry folks hoping to test their mettle.
Just trying out the tutorial portion made something really clear. Phantom Blade Zero is not a Soulslike like some have painted it out to be. Sure, there are dangerous foes and a measured take towards storytelling and worldbuilding, but the core tenet is one of exhilarating action at speeds that that genre simply doesn’t come close to.
This cuts both ways, precisely how S-Game wants it. Master the techniques of your weapons and gear; even bosses can be destroyed in a flurry of damaging combos and counters. Flip it, and making stupid mistakes can instantly lead to a painful defeat. With the basics out of the way, it was time for us to try our hand at actual fights, an experience that further cemented our anticipation for the game.
The fluid animations and the sheer impact of your combos make even the most minor encounters with typical enemies a joy to behold. Although cutting your foes into shreds delivers plenty of satisfaction, perfectly executing dodges and parries against otherwise dangerous attacks also helps enhance that cool factor in Phantom Blade Zero. It’s not just a simple sidestep or a parry; it’s doing it with a kung-fu flair and literally smacking the enemy’s weapons out of the way with your own. The sheer audacity that they think they can lay a hand on you, it’s the vibe the game is going for and it lands perfectly.
And when you consider that weapon choices both for melee and ranged combat will change how you move and fight, then the possibilities are quite expansive. For players looking to experiment and truly push the combat system to its limit, this is one game not to be missed with its light and heavy combo strings and beautiful combat movement likely to drive plenty of no-hit videos and stylish compilations.
Things really came to a head when we encountered three of the bosses who were previously shown off for Phantom Blade Zero. Tie Sha the Frenzy was first on the menu, brandishing a menacing-looking axe ready for blood. Switching to the swift dual blades, it didn’t take long for us to understand his attack patterns and prepare our parries and dodges. The aforementioned thrill of exacting pure punishment on a boss was ever-present, as he stood no chance as we whittled down his health and defenses in just two minutes.
Next came Commander Cleave, who provided more of a challenge. Using our long sword, it was more of an equal encounter as he unleashed his own strings of combos and even aerial attacks. The encounter kept up the pace throughout, and rather than needing the time to breathe, it felt more natural to keep going aggressive against an opponent trying to press their own advantage. You won’t get bored during fights like this in Phantom Blade Zero, and being kept on your toes always makes for a more enjoyable time. After putting him to the sword, we moved on to the main event.
Huangxing, the Sunken Pillar of Kunlun, is one hell of a boss fight. Just trying to learn his patterns saw us endure two humiliating defeats, but these were all lessons that we needed to learn as we got to grips with his approach. With more health and more vigorous defence than the other two bosses, this meant that any mistake we made during the fight was potentially fatal. Instead of a heavier weapon, we went with the chakrams that afforded us speed and range, and together with the help of the lion-headed cannon, we were able to emerge victorious on our third try.
Even in the short time we had with Phantom Blade Zero, there is no denying how much fun it was, and the sheer potential of an experience like this. Bosses and normal enemies alike become opportunities to show off your stuff, and while it may have elements similar to other Soulslike games, the beauty of Phantom Blade Zero is in its speed and aggressiveness, which we can all appreciate. If S-Game is able to complement the battles with a world that makes exploration worthwhile and weave a tale of intrigue and mystery, then we are looking at a potential frontrunner for the breakout title of whichever year it launches.
Phantom Blade Zero has no release date yet, but it will launch on PlayStation 5 and PC.
