Phantom Blade Zero review: dark wuxia martial arts masters with an apprentice's execution

Phantom Blade Zero is hailed as the perfect martial arts game, for better and worse. This action game, developed by S-Game, aims to deliver the sleek and breathtaking moves seen in classic kung fu movies from the 1990s. The protagonist, Soul, is a legendary swordmaster and former member of the influential Order organization, who must find a way to survive before his artificial heart stops working in just 66 days.

The game focuses on Soul's journey of survival, but quickly expands to a larger tale of world-changing conspiracies. Despite its epic proportions, the story only had a few emotionally impactful moments, focusing more on the struggles of regular people in the world.

Phantom Blade Zero's combat system is designed to balance unrestrained attack sequences with stamina-dependent strong attacks and defensive moves. Weapons can be equipped and swapped during combat, with heavy attacks costing stamina and parrying being the best defensive technique. The game's world is filled with beautiful maps and unique elements, blending traditional Chinese fantasy with steampunk aesthetics.

While the game's story may not be groundbreaking, Phantom Blade Zero offers a fascinating and unique fiction that rewards patience and immersion. By letting the game's narrative unfold on its own terms, players can appreciate the captivating mix of traditional Chinese fantasy elements intertwined with steampunk, creating a world where power, honor, and treachery intertwine, and good people strive for good deeds despite widespread suffering.