So where exactly does it sit on this spectrum?

According to the people making it, it’s both.

But maybe this is a way to help another group of players to understand or anticipate the game.

Close up of Phantom Blade Zero protagonist with straw hat covering his face

There’s something for both sides.

It’s just something in between.

It’s a way to tell a story."

Cover image for YouTube video

The first is the idea of a playable kung fu film.

The second philosophy is taking inspiration from 90s game development to ensure the scope is manageable.

That said, there’s the small matter of last year’s phenomenally successfulBlack Myth Wukong.

Phantom Blade Zero screenshot showing close up of boss in white cloak with glowing red light instead of a face

Expectations are high, then, but the results already speak for themselves.

The S-Game team showed me a presentation detailing reactions to Phantom Blade Zero on social media since its reveal.

Meanwhile,Phantom Blade Zero’s announcement traileron the PlayStation channel has 5.3m views.

Phantom Blade Zero screenshot showing two hooded in enemies with no faces in white cloaks

So far, Phantom Blade Zero gives the impression of living up to those expectations.

No wonder the game remains frustratingly without a release date.