Phantom Blade Zero is starting to look like a serious contender for 2026. Developer S-GAME gave fans a deeper look at the action RPG during Sony’s State of Play in August 2026. The gameplay is set in the fictional world of Wulin, where martial arts heroes live. The protagonist of the game is Soul, a Wuxia warrior, who was framed for his leader's murder and betrayed by his comrades. After he died in combat, he was brought to life by a mysterious figure and set on a path of revenge. The story of the game revolves around how he makes his path to the truth.
The gameplay showcases fast-paced combat. A deeper look at the kung fu combat has been shown, where the studio clarified that players will get over 30 main weapons and 25 secondary weapons, known as Phantom Edges. Players will be able to mix and match weapons to create a customized build.
As the gameplay progresses, players will face tough enemies, large bosses, and traps while moving through the world. The State of Play also showed villages, temples, caves, and other areas that give the game a strong Chinese-inspired look.
Phantom Blade Zero and Black Myth: Wukong share a clear connection. Both games take inspiration from Chinese culture and martial arts. However, their approach is quite different.
Black Myth: Wukong focuses heavily on Chinese mythology and the story of the Monkey King. Its combat is slower and more focused on timing, spells, and staff attacks.
Phantom Blade Zero takes a darker route. Its world feels closer to a martial arts film, with fast swordplay and brutal fights. The game also places greater emphasis on weapon changes and quick attacks.
The difference could help Phantom Blade Zero stand on its own. It is not simply trying to follow the path set by other Chinese action games.
The latest gameplay gives Phantom Blade Zero a strong first impression. Its combat looks sharp, while the world has enough style to make exploration interesting.
If S-GAME can deliver the same quality across the full game, Phantom Blade Zero could become one of 2026’s biggest action RPGs. For PS5 players, the wait may be worth it.