Phantom Blade Games in Order: Full Play Sequence
The Phantom Blade series currently has two released games, and the intended play order is Phantom Blade Zero first, followed by Phantom Blade: Executioners—but the release order is the reverse. This article explains the difference, what each game covers, and how to approach the series whether you care about story chronology or gameplay evolution.
Background: What Is the Phantom Blade Series?
Phantom Blade is a Chinese action RPG franchise developed by S-GAME (formerly Cube Game). It blends fast-paced combat reminiscent of Devil May Cry or Ninja Gaiden with a dark, wuxia-inspired world. The series gained international attention with the announcement of Phantom Blade Zero for PS5 and PC, but a mobile title, Phantom Blade: Executioners, actually came first.
The setting is a fictional realm called the “Phantom World,� where martial artists, demons, and ancient conspiracies collide. The protagonist, Soul, is an assassin framed for a crime he didn’t commit, and the story revolves around his quest for truth and revenge.
Release Order vs. Story Order
If you want to experience the games as they were released, you start with the mobile game. If you want to follow the narrative timeline, you start with the console game. Here’s the breakdown:
- Release order: Phantom Blade: Executioners (2020) → Phantom Blade Zero (expected 2025).
- Story order: Phantom Blade Zero (prequel) → Phantom Blade: Executioners (sequel).
The developer has stated that Phantom Blade Zero is a prequel, set years before the events of Executioners. So if you care about the narrative arc, play Zero first even though it’s newer.
Phantom Blade Zero: The Prequel (Play First)
Phantom Blade Zero is the console/PC title that most players will encounter first. It’s a full 3D action game with a deeper combat system, more elaborate boss fights, and a larger open world. The story follows Soul before he becomes the legendary assassin, showing how he got entangled with the Phantom Order and the betrayal that sets the whole saga in motion.
Key features:
- Third-person action combat with parry, dodge, and skill combos.
- Weapon variety: swords, spears, and dual blades.
- Exploration across multiple regions, not just linear levels.
- Story that explains the origins of the Phantom World’s conflict.
If you’re new to the series, this is the most accessible entry point because it’s designed for modern consoles and PC, and it doesn’t require knowledge of the mobile game.
Phantom Blade: Executioners – The Sequel (Play Second)
Phantom Blade: Executioners is the mobile game that started it all. It’s a 2D side-scrolling action RPG with a darker, more brutal tone. The combat is still fast and fluid, but the presentation is more limited due to the mobile platform. The story picks up after the events of Zero, showing Soul fully established as a killer for the Phantom Order, and the consequences of his actions.
Important notes:
- It’s free-to-play with gacha mechanics, which can be a turn-off for some.
- The game has been updated over the years with new characters and story chapters.
- It’s available on iOS and Android, but not on PC or consoles.
If you’ve played Zero first, you’ll appreciate the callbacks and the tragic arc of Soul’s character. If you play Executioners first, you might find the story confusing because it assumes you know the backstory that Zero provides.
How to Choose Your Starting Point
Here’s a quick decision guide based on your preferences:
- If you prefer story continuity: Start with Phantom Blade Zero.
- If you only have a mobile device: Start with Phantom Blade: Executioners.
- If you want the best graphics and combat: Wait for Phantom Blade Zero and play that first.
- If you’re a completionist: Play both in release order to see how the series evolved.
There’s no wrong way to start, but the developer’s intended narrative flow is Zero → Executioners.
Common Misconception: Is Zero a Remake?
No. Phantom Blade Zero is not a remake or remaster of the mobile game. It’s a completely new game with a new engine, new combat system, and a story that serves as a prequel. The title “Zero� refers to the beginning, not to a definitive edition. Some players assume it’s a reboot, but it’s actually a direct prequel that expands the lore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to play the mobile game before Phantom Blade Zero?
No. Zero is designed as a standalone experience. You can enjoy the story and combat without any prior knowledge. The mobile game adds context, but it’s not required.
Is Phantom Blade: Executioners still available?
Yes, it’s still live on iOS and Android. It receives occasional updates, but the player base has shrunk since its launch. You can still download and play it today.
Will Phantom Blade Zero come to other platforms?
It’s confirmed for PS5 and PC. There’s no official word on Xbox or Switch versions, but the developer hasn’t ruled them out.
Are the stories directly connected?
Yes. Zero sets up the events that lead to Executioners. The main character Soul is the same person, and the Phantom Order’s politics are central to both.
Which game has better combat?
Zero has more depth and polish, with a focus on timing and variety. Executioners is simpler but still solid for a mobile game. If you’re a combat purist, Zero is the better choice.
Can I skip the mobile game and just play Zero?
Absolutely. Zero is the more important game for new players. The mobile game is optional for those who want the full story.
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