Phantom Blade Zero slashes through reviews with stylish, fluid combat
Phantom Blade Zero is landing with a stylish swagger, according to a wave of early reviews. IGN reports the action game from S-Game has "some of the most satisfying and well-tuned combat I’ve played in a long time," praising its precise parry and dodge mechanics. The outlet's review highlighted a deep weapon system that encourages constant switching, alongside tools like grappling hooks and bows for exploration.
Eurogamer's review paints the combat as cinematic and free-flowing, channeling the feel of classic kung fu films. The outlet notes the game employs a two-weapon system tied to a resource called 'sha-chi,' which refreshes when you swap weapons. This allows for faster-paced encounters than typical soulslikes, with generous parry and dodge windows.
Push Square calls it "one of the generation's greatest action experiences," built around a punchy and deep combat system. VGC's review summary states S-Game has crafted "some of the fastest, most engaging combat of any action game."
However, several outlets point to significant shortcomings. IGN found the story convoluted, packed with mystical jargon and a needlessly complex timeline that can be exhausting. Eurogamer agrees, saying the world lore is delivered through "reams of text" and is not a strength, advising players to let the narrative "wash over you."
Performance issues were also noted. IGN mentions "occasional performance issues," while Eurogamer states that balance and quality issues ultimately "dim its shine." Despite these flaws, the consensus per these outlets is that the core combat delivers a thrilling and visually spectacular martial arts fantasy.
