Phantom Blade Zero Release Date Could Be So Much Further Away Than We Thought
Phantom Blade Zero's expected release date has come as a blow to its fans who eagerly wait to begin hacking and slashing their way through its world.
- Phantom Blade Zero has been a highly anticipated title ever since developer S-GAME showcased footage from the game.
- A popular YouTuber's early impressions contained a disappointing update on the game's release date.
- While 2026 does seem like a long time to release the game, S-GAME may use it to fine-tune the experience and ensure an excellent release for fans.
Phantom Blade Zero has caught the attention of many Soulslike fans who appreciate its smooth animations and fast-paced combat along with other mechanics that could shape up to be an excellent addition to the genre.
Chinese developer S-GAME’s spiritual successor to its director and CEO Soulframe’s Rainblood: Town of Death has managed to garner a lot of positive attention in the aftermath of its announcement, with the studio seeking to make Phantom Blade Zero accessible to a wide range of players with varying skill levels while remaining true to the Soulslike formula – a feat that could challenge even the best of the genre’s many big names.
A Slick, Stylish, and Sublime Gameplay Loop
Early footage of the game from the developer showcases the protagonist Soul take on hordes of enemies and more than a few bosses in his quest for redemption after being framed for the murder of his clan’s leader. Soul’s martial prowess is on display, helping him go toe to toe with even the most formidable enemies with style and moves that are well-animated while remaining realistic.
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While S-GAME does intend to challenge its players, the studio’s assertion that Phantom Blade Zero is not going to be as difficult as its counterparts in the Soulslike genre has raised a few eyebrows. While the studio’s reasons for this decision are understandable, a new rumor surrounding the game’s expected release date may not earn it any compliments from gamers eager to dive into the action-packed adventure it promises.
The Wait for Phantom Blade Zero Could Be Longer Than Expected
An early impressions video from Youtuber JorRaptor who creates a lot of content based on Soulslike titles contains a disappointing update about Phantom Blade Zero’s release date that has potential fans of the game wondering why S-GAME chose to showcase their title this early in its development cycle.
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In the video shown below, JorRaptor showcases a few key gameplay elements that he experienced in the presence of S-GAME before clearly stating that the game is expected in Fall 2026 – a timeframe that many players have complained about.
Fans of Phantom Blade Zero are understandably upset about the game being so far away despite its footage making it seem like it could have been ready for release a lot earlier than 2026.
Many players expected the game to be a 2025 release given how polished the footage that S-GAME had in its showcase was and remain confused about why the studio would choose to advertise the game at all.
One player had a possible explanation for why S-GAME chose to showcase its upcoming title this early, pointing to debates around other titles which caused many players to believe that Phantom Blade Zero was not actually going to release.
Whatever the case may be, S-GAME should take heart in knowing that Phantom Blade Zero has managed to secure a place for itself on several players’ wishlists based on its excellent mechanics and a potentially engaging narrative.
While 2026 is certainly far away, it does give S-GAME a lot of time to ensure a refined, polished, and rewarding experience for players who are patient enough to wait for it.
