Patch Overview
Phantom Blade Zero has launched with a day-one patch that addresses multiple bugs and brings performance advantages across both PC and console platforms.
The update is approximately 5GB in size on PC and 2GB on PS5, where it appears as version 1.301.524.
The patch improves ray tracing and path tracing for enhanced real-time lighting and shadows, while also refining rasterization to maintain the distinct art style when ray tracing is disabled.
Hardware Compatibility
Developer S-Game noted that the game has been extensively tested on mid-range PCs and handheld devices like the Steam Deck, though official verification from Valve is still pending.
Nvidia Driver Advisory
For PC players, the developer reported unstable performance issues when using Nvidia's latest 621.01 driver.
S-Game recommends rolling back to driver version 617.42 for optimal performance until Nvidia releases a subsequent update.
Developer Statement
Creative director and CEO of S-Game, Soulframe LIANG, detailed the contents of the update ahead of launch, emphasizing the focus on visual fidelity and stability across hardware configurations.
We’ve prepared a day-one patch ahead of launch. The update is approximately 5 GB and significantly improves ray tracing and path tracing performance, alongside several bug fixes. If you’ve already pre-loaded the game, please download and install the update before launching. If you haven’t pre-loaded, your download will automatically include the latest version.
We’ve spent a great deal of time refining the game’s rasterized visuals so that each environment stays true to our art direction even with ray tracing turned off. We’ve also extensively tested the game on mid-range and lower-end PCs, as well as handhelds, and encourage you to give it a try.
We’ve observed some performance instability with Nvidia’s latest 621.01 driver. Based on our testing, version 617.42 currently offers the best experience in Phantom Blade Zero. If you’ve installed a driver newer than 617.42, we recommend rolling back to 617.42 and choosing the clean installation option. Please stay on this version until Nvidia releases its next driver update, which we expect to arrive soon.
Voice acting for the protagonist has also been updated for the full launch, with Roger Craig Smith taking on the lead role.
IGN's Phantom Blade Zero review returned a 9/10. We said: "Phantom Blade Zero is an unbelievably smooth action game filled with memorable boss fights, compelling combat, and limitless swagger."
Before you step into the Phantom World, we’ve put together a helpful list of Things Phantom Blade Zero Doesn’t Tell You. We’ve also got a step-by-step Phantom Blade Zero Walkthrough in progress, plus guides for the game’s Weapons, Accessories, and Phantom Edges.
