“I don’t think we have the privilege to make you frustrated”: Phantom Blade Zero’s Explanation about Its Own Difficulty Sounds Like a Subtle Attack on FromSoftware

This title seeks to use a new strategy.

Phantom Blade Zero and From Software

SUMMARY

  • The director of Phantom Blade Zero made strong statements about not having the privilege of omitting difficulty options in the game.
  • He referred to games like Elden Ring and most titles developed by FromSoftware.
  • Hidetaka Miyazaki has the certain privilege of being able to frustrate his players without major consequences.
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Despite all of FromSoftware’s games not allowing players to choose the difficulty, it seems these titles keep gaining new fans who admire them beyond the frustration. However, according to the director of Phantom Blade Zero, this studio cannot afford to frustrate its players, especially considering they are a completely new IP. 

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In an interview, the director specifically mentioned the studio responsible for Elden Ring and Hidetaka Miyazaki, emphasizing their unique ability to challenge conventional norms.

Phantom Blade Zero Does Not Have the Luxury of Frustrating Its Players Without Real Consequences

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After two gameplay trailers shown at different events, Phantom Blade Zero is positioning itself as one of the most anticipated Soulslike games. This particular title combines elements of Chinese martial arts with its folklore, creating a unique art style and combat style reminiscent of classic Kung fu movies.

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The game’s creators say it will have all kinds of original mechanics that reward players for perfect parries.

The game is currently on tour, presenting itself as a demo to attendees of various world-renowned events. In a recent interview, the game director talked about everything this title will offer but also took the opportunity to mention certain privileges that a new game cannot afford.

The director of this title, Soulframe, spoke about how a new IP cannot afford to frustrate its players compared to games like Elden Ring.

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A Truth That Seems Not to Affect Certain Games

Phantom Blade Zero gameplay.
Phantom Blade Zero will have different difficulties to chose from. Image via S-Game.

Soulframe specifically referred to the studio FromSoftware and how it has the luxury of frustrating its players without affecting sales, beyond some superficial criticism.

Hidetaka Miyazaki can do this with any new game he releases in the future, but a new IP like Phantom Blade Zero cannot risk making a mistake that could negatively impact sales. This has already happened in other new games, such as Sifu, which added the option to choose difficulty after complaints.

Similarly, the director talked about how the game will have different difficulty levels and reward players for perfect parries, doing all this in the most visually appealing way when executing the main character’s various movements.

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Soulframe’s idea is to make the game accessible to everyone, allowing players to enjoy it to the fullest. The director wants users to avoid frustration.

For now, Phantom Blade Zero does not have a confirmed release date. The IP’s studio, S-Game, has announced that it will continue its tour, showcasing at various events.

Despite players’ requests for a demo, it seems this is far from happening. The visual and combat qualities of this game are unique, generating a lot of hype and making it one of the most anticipated titles in recent years.

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What are your thoughts on this director’s statement? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by Lucas Lapetina

Articles Published: 805

I'm a big fan of movies and videogames in general. I really love Pokémon and Godzilla. One of my favorite games is The Last of Us, Part II. A compelling and well-written story is always welcome.