Phantom Blade Zero review: Feel gud, not git gud

Phantom Blade Zero is an action-packed martial arts epic that released on October 28, 2026. Published by S-Game, the game requires no multiplayer support and costs £49.99/$59.99. Although it can be played on the Steam Deck, it is currently unsupported. Developed by S-Game Studios, the game immerses players in the world of wuxia through its narrative-driven gameplay, featuring a protagonist named Soul.

Unlike many action games that focus on mastering mechanics, Phantom Blade Zero prioritizes the feeling of mastery and excitement. This approach makes the game accessible to players who enjoy action combat and spectacle, as the game's design encourages experimentation and various battle styles. The game boasts a diverse array of weapons and Phantom Edges, akin to Sekiro's Shinobi Tools, which players can wield with ease and finesse.

One of the standout features of Phantom Blade Zero is its boss battles. The game provides a refreshing take on the Souls-like genre by making boss encounters more meaningful and enjoyable. With each fight, players can expect jaw-dropping moments like flawless parries, executions, and dynamic attacks that leave them in awe. Despite its stylish presentation, the game does not shy away from delivering challenging encounters, with limited lives in boss fights to keep the tension high.

The game's narrative revolves around Soul, a martially gifted orphan who becomes an outlaw after his sworn brother betrays him. He embarks on a quest to confront Zuo Shang, the former brother, and retrieve a rumored artificial heart—the "Phantom Blade." The story unfolds through heart-wrenching cutscenes, including Chinese shadow puppetry scenes, providing a dark and gritty version of the wuxia genre.

Phantom Blade Zero distinguishes itself from other action games by abandoning many traditional Mechanics, such as souls and bonfires found in Souls-like games. Instead, it emphasizes momentum and fluid gameplay, allowing players to experience a more action-oriented adventure. The game also takes cues from Sekiro, addressing its controversial elements, such as wound-based bosses and the resource requirement for using Shinobi Tools.

By removing these limitations, Phantom Blade Zero encourages players to explore diverse battle strategies and fully exploit their abilities.