Phantom Blade Zero Review: A Kungfupunk Action Game That Defies Labels

October 26, 2026 - 16:43

One of the year's most anticipated action titles blends Chinese Wuxia combat with striking visuals and some genuinely strange narrative choices, but the question everyone keeps asking is whether it truly fits the Soulslike mold.

Phantom Blade Zero sets itself apart by leaning into what its developers call kungfupunk, a fusion of traditional martial arts aesthetics with dark fantasy and industrial elements. The result is a world that feels distinct from the usual medieval European backdrops that dominate the genre. Combat is fast and fluid, emphasizing parries, dodges, and chain attacks rather than the slow, methodical pacing players might expect from a Soulslike. That said, the punishing difficulty and deliberate boss encounters will feel familiar to veterans of the genre.

The story takes some unusual turns, mixing revenge-driven plotting with surreal sequences that may divide players. Visually, the game is a standout, with detailed environments and animation work that brings each duel to life. Whether Phantom Blade Zero ultimately counts as a Soulslike depends on how strictly you define the term. It borrows structure and challenge from the formula but pushes combat in a more aggressive, stylish direction. For players seeking something that honors Wuxia traditions while offering a fresh take on action RPG design, this one is worth watching closely.