Phantom Blade Zero delivers fast, theatrical combat that the Australian outlet Press‑Start described as closer to a choreographed kung fu film than a straight Soulslike in a review published Oct. 26.
What the review highlights
- Press‑Start labelled the game’s tone “kungfupunk,” emphasizing stylish, cinematic encounters that reward timing and technique rather than brute force.
- The review details multiple interconnected systems: two switchable primary weapons, secondary Phantom Edge attacks, dodge, parry, guard and powerful consumable techniques.
- Resource management is central: Press‑Start explains the Sha‑Chi bar governs powerful attacks and guarding, while parrying both avoids Sha‑Chi cost and chips an enemy’s Sha‑Chi to trigger Guard Breaks.
Combat systems get particular attention in the review. Press‑Start notes that blue‑flashing attacks can be parried and that a perfectly timed parry triggers a Ghoststep, which repositions the player behind an attacker. Red‑flashing attacks require dodging, and attempting to block those attacks is presented as a costly mistake. The review also points out a weapon‑swap mechanic tied to Sha‑Chi regeneration that encourages rotating through the player’s arsenal.
“This isn’t Dark Souls with a martial arts makeover. It’s a beautifully choreographed kung fu film that’s decided the audience should be allowed to murder the stuntmen.” — Press‑Start, Oct. 26
Studio progress and critique
Press‑Start frames Phantom Blade Zero as an “astonishing leap into AAA console gaming” for S‑GAME, noting the studio’s growth from smaller projects to a more ambitious production. While praise is strong for the game’s aesthetic and combat choreography, the review also cautions that the systems present a learning curve: combat “initially looks like a lot to absorb.”
The review identifies complexity as both strength and barrier. Players are asked to master how multiple mechanics interact — Sha‑Chi costs, Sha‑Chi Essence for Power Surge techniques, weapon switching, parry timing and defensive options — rather than relying on repetitive button inputs.
Bottom line from the review
Press‑Start concludes that Phantom Blade Zero is not flawless but stands out for its spectacle and depth, delivering satisfying, expressive encounters for players willing to learn its layered systems. The review frames the title as an example of S‑GAME growing into larger-scale development while offering combat designed to showcase skill and style.
