Phantom Blade Zero has received a day-one update, approximately 5GB on PC and 2GB on PS5, aimed at improving performance and fixing bugs for players on both platforms. The patch enhances ray tracing and path tracing capabilities, resulting in more refined real-time lighting and shadows. It also includes optimizations for rasterization, ensuring the game's art style is preserved even when ray tracing is disabled, which should benefit players with mid-range PCs and handheld devices.
Developer S-Game has specifically identified performance issues with Nvidia's latest driver version, 621.01. The studio recommends that PC players experiencing instability with this driver roll back to version 617.42, utilizing the clean installation option. S-Game expects Nvidia to release a new driver update soon that will likely resolve these concerns.
The game's creative director and CEO, Soulframe Liang, confirmed these details, stating that the patch significantly improves tracing performance and includes numerous bug fixes. He also highlighted extensive testing on various PC configurations, including handheld devices, to ensure a consistent visual experience across different hardware.
Previously, it was reported that Roger Craig Smith, known for voicing Sonic the Hedgehog, replaced the original protagonist actor for Phantom Blade Zero's full launch. IGN's review of Phantom Blade Zero awarded it a 9/10, praising its smooth action, memorable boss fights, compelling combat, and distinct style.