Is Phantom Blade Zero just another flashy action RPG focused solely on combat? Recent revelations from the game's creator, Soulframe, suggest otherwise. In a detailed interview, it was disclosed that despite its combat-heavy demonstrations, Phantom Blade Zero features a surprisingly intricate narrative with eight distinct endings—surpassing even the acclaimed Elden Ring's six. This depth is achieved not through major story choices but by rewarding players who engage with side content and collectibles, making it a game that values thorough exploration over rushing through the main plot. With a main story length of 20-30 hours, Phantom Blade Zero aligns with modern story-driven titles like God of War and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, yet its replayability factor is significantly amplified by branching paths tied to player actions. As 2025 unfolds, this approach promises to deliver a fresh take on the action RPG genre, where every hidden quest and collected item could alter the protagonist's fate.

The Length and Narrative Structure

Phantom Blade Zero's main storyline is designed to be completed in approximately 20 to 30 hours, positioning it comfortably among full-price, story-driven games. But what happens if players ignore the side elements? According to Soulframe, skipping optional content leads to a "bad ending," emphasizing that the game's true value lies in its depth. For instance:

• Main Story Focus: Players who only tackle the core missions will finish faster but face limited outcomes.

• Extended Playthrough: Engaging in side quests and collections can double the playtime, unlocking richer conclusions.

This structure mirrors other RPGs like Mass Effect and The Witcher 3, where side activities directly influence the narrative. Soulframe elaborated: "I think for the main story, maybe 20–30 hours to finish... But if you don't do anything else, you might end up with a bad ending." This highlights a key philosophy: length isn't just about hours; it's about meaningful content that rewards curiosity. To illustrate, here's a comparison of game lengths:

Game Title	Main Story Length (Hours)	Total Endings
Phantom Blade Zero	20-30	8
Elden Ring	50-60	6
God of War (2018)	20-25	1

As seen, Phantom Blade Zero offers more endings in a shorter span, encouraging multiple playthroughs without excessive time commitment. 🎮

The Eight Endings and How to Achieve Them

Phantom Blade Zero boasts eight possible endings, a feature that sets it apart in the crowded RPG market. But how do players unlock these diverse conclusions? Soulframe clarified that endings depend on subtle actions rather than dramatic choices:

• Side Quests Completion: The number of side missions finished directly correlates with ending variations. For example, completing all quests might unlock the "best" ending.

• Item Collection: At key story points, the game checks for specific items. Having them alters the path; lacking them leads to different outcomes. Soulframe stated: "If you have something, it will be different, if you don't have something, it will be different."

• No Obscurity: Unlike some games where endings feel random, Phantom Blade Zero provides clear clues through NPCs, readable notes, and story hints. Players are guided to recognize impactful moments, reducing guesswork.

This system ensures that endings feel earned. Consider the key elements:

• Branching Paths: Based on collectibles and quests, not main plot decisions.

• Reward for Exploration: Thorough players access more endings, extending gameplay beyond 30 hours.

• Clarity in Design: Soulframe emphasized: "There will be guidance and clues... You will know." This makes the experience accessible, avoiding frustration.

Player Guidance and Replayability

How does Phantom Blade Zero ensure players don't miss critical elements? The game integrates intuitive guidance systems, making narrative impacts transparent. For instance:

• Clues and NPCs: Dialogues and environmental hints signal when an action affects the ending. Players are encouraged to "think like the hero" when encountering obvious cues.

• Avoiding Accidents: Outcomes aren't left to chance; attention to detail is key. This design fosters replayability, as each session can reveal new layers.

Soulframe's insights reveal a game that champions exploration: "It's less about stumbling into different outcomes by accident, and more about paying attention to what the game is clearly pointing toward." This approach not only enhances immersion but also builds a community of players sharing strategies for achieving all eight endings. 🔍

Why This Matters for RPG Fans

In 2025, Phantom Blade Zero stands out by blending concise storytelling with expansive possibilities. Its 20-30 hour main story caters to busy gamers, while the eight endings offer depth rivaling longer titles. Key takeaways include:

1. Value for Money: At full price, the game justifies cost through replay value—multiple endings mean fresh experiences.

2. Modern Design Trends: Aligning with games like Elden Ring, it uses side quests to drive narratives, but with clearer player agency.

3. Community Impact: As players discuss endings online, the game fosters engagement and longevity.

Ultimately, Phantom Blade Zero rewards those who slow down and savor its world. With visuals that captivate and mechanics that empower, it's poised to be a 2025 highlight. As Soulframe summed up, collectors and explorers will find the richest conclusions, proving that in gaming, sometimes the journey matters more than the destination. 🌟

This assessment draws from Rock Paper Shotgun, a leading source for PC gaming news and reviews. Their recent features on narrative-driven action RPGs emphasize the growing trend of rewarding exploration and side content, much like Phantom Blade Zero’s approach to multiple endings and player-guided story outcomes.