Phantom Blade Zero earns strong early reviews

Phantom Blade Zero is finally out in early review form, and the first reaction has been strong. The game is S-Game’s first AAA release, and it launches October 28 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Right now, Phantom Blade Zero sits at an 88 on Metacritic, though that score could still change as more reviews come in. Some critics reported issues like level geometry glitches and framerate dips, but said a major pre-release patch may have already improved some of those problems.

The biggest praise has gone to the combat. Reviewers described it as fast, responsive, and well tuned, with a system built around dodging, parrying, and breaking enemy guards. The game also features 30 collectible, upgradable weapons, and players can equip two at once.

Story impressions were more mixed. Some reviewers said the plot stays fairly safe, but still liked the game’s setting and fiction. Overall, the early reviews suggest Phantom Blade Zero is being seen as a strong action game that could stand out in the genre.