Phantom Blade Zero has lived in my head rent free since Summer Game Fest 2024. I took the action game for a spin on the ground, and its fast pace, dazzling combat, and stunning visuals cemented it as one of my most-anticipated games. But the world has changed a lot since 2024 - I'm hesitant to use the word 'progressed.' We've seen several prominent studios integrate generative AI into their workflows: Pearl Abyss recently got called out for using AI-created art in Crimson Desert, and the likes of Krafton have been transparent about their plans to heavily invest in the technology. It left me a little worried about Phantom Blade Zero - especially given that NetEase and Tencent have stakes in S-Game.