Beijing hosted S-PARTY 2025 this week, a two-day event organized by S-GAME that focused on the upcoming action RPG Phantom Blade Zero. Attendees had the chance to try out a new playable demo, while IGN India shared a 22-minute gameplay video featuring new content, including hidden bosses, new weapons, and exploration elements.
The game has drawn attention for its distinct mix of fast-paced swordplay, layered environments, and visual influences from traditional Wuxia storytelling. While early comparisons have been made to the Soulslike genre, the developers have stated that Phantom Blade Zero is not meant to follow that formula. Instead, it focuses on fluid combat and cinematic moments built around a martial arts theme.
S-GAME CEO Soulframe provided further insight into the direction of the game. He explained that Phantom Blade Zero began as a hack-and-slash title with a multi-layered map, but evolved into something shaped by cultural elements and stylized environments. This approach helped shape the gameplay into something that doesn’t follow established genre templates.
The newly released demo introduces several combat scenarios, detailed environments, and boss encounters. Gameplay footage shows players navigating rooftops, dodging projectiles, and engaging in fast melee combat. New weapon types and hidden items add depth to the experience. Players can expect to encounter multiple paths and discover story elements through exploration rather than cutscenes.
The game will support three difficulty settings: Wayfarer, Gamechanger, and Hellwalker. The last option becomes available only after completing the game once, offering a more challenging replay experience. This approach contrasts with typical Soulslike design, which often revolves around a single fixed difficulty.
While the release date has not yet been announced, Phantom Blade Zero will appear at Gamescom 2025. S-GAME is preparing a large booth in Hall 6 (B-050G), where over 60 demo stations will allow visitors to try a one-hour build of the game. This will be the most extensive hands-on version shown publicly so far, with new environments, boss battles, and gameplay systems.
Further details, including a possible release timeline, are expected during Gamescom. For now, fans can watch the latest gameplay video to get a closer look at the progress made on Phantom Blade Zero.
