By Sagar V. Mankar 
The phenomenal success of Black Myth: Wukong has reportedly driven a wave of investment in Chinese AAA games, including the upcoming stylish action RPG Phantom Blade Zero. Developed by Beijing-based S-Game, Phantom Blade Zero has gained momentum as one of the most anticipated titles in the action RPG genre, thanks to the hype and financial support inspired by Wukong‘s achievements.
According to gaming consultant Daniel Camilo, Black Myth: Wukong’s strong performance, selling over 20 million copies by October 2024, proved to investors that AAA game development in China could yield global success. This encouraged many to pour funding into projects like Phantom Blade Zero. However, Camilo revealed that S-Game received substantial financial backing even before Wukong’s release, as early metrics and excitement around the game had already shifted investor confidence. Post-launch, the influx of offers was so overwhelming that S-Game reportedly turned down several funding opportunities, carefully selecting partnerships with the best terms.
Phantom Blade 0 received funding thanks to Black Myth Wukong’s success.
According to two different sources who worked in the development of the game for S-Game (studio ) that I talked to directly, this is the case.
Details and clarifications in 🧵… pic.twitter.com/0MmQhBMkwo
— Daniel Camilo (@DanielOlimac) January 21, 2025
The ripple effect of Wukong’s success allowed Phantom Blade Zero to expand its development scope, positioning it as a major competitor in the global gaming market. The game features lightning-fast combat reminiscent of Devil May Cry and Sekiro but diverges from the traditional Soulslike formula. Its protagonist, Soul, wields unique weapons like twin snake swords and venomous softblades, with gameplay that emphasizes fluidity and creative boss encounters. The story follows Soul, a warrior falsely accused of murder, who has 66 days to uncover the real culprit before a life-sustaining spell wears off.
The game’s recent Year of the Snake trailer highlights its high production value, featuring intense battles against a group of warriors known as the “Seven Judgements.” The visuals and innovative mechanics demonstrate the ambition of S-Game to deliver a standout title.
S-Game’s leadership credits the growing maturity of the Chinese gaming industry and the surge of investor interest for enabling them to realize their vision of developing a console-quality AAA game. CEO Liang Qiwei explained that while the market once focused on mobile games, the success of titles like Black Myth: Wukong has opened the door for larger, more ambitious projects.
At present, no release date has been announced for the game.