Chinese Game Developers: Historical & Cultural References
Table of Content
Intro
With the rise of AAA Chinese games, Chinese developers have drawn from the country’s rich cultural heritage to create unique and visually stunning games. By blending traditional Chinese art styles, folklore, and historical narratives with modern gameplay mechanics, these developers are carving out a distinct identity in the global gaming industry.
How History Shapes Chinese Games
Chinese developers are incorporating history into games through various methods, such as:
1. Architectural inspirations.
2. Clothing from dynastic periods.
3. Storylines based on historical events such as the Three Kingdoms game.
4. Mythological figures and folklore characters.
5. Combat systems influenced by martial arts traditions like Wushu.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Art Styles and Aesthetics
Games like The Last Soldier of the Ming Dynasty have incorporated classic Chinese art styles, such as ink wash painting and Shanshui, traditional architecture, and Hanfu-inspired character designs. The use of calligraphy, watercolour textures, and ancient symbols creates an immersive experience that reflects China’s artistic legacy.
Mythology and Folklore as Narrative Foundations
Titles such as Black Myth: Wukong and Chinese Paladin are deeply rooted in Chinese mythology. Black Myth: Wukong draws inspiration from the 16th-century novel Journey to the West, adapting legendary figures and epic battles into a dynamic, action-packed experience.
Martial Arts and Combat Mechanics
Chinese martial arts, or Wushu, are central to the combat systems of many Chinese-developed games. Fluid, choreographed fighting styles, influenced by both cinema and historical texts, enhance the authenticity of games like Code: To Jin Yong.
Historical and Cultural References
Games like Three Kingdoms transport players to historical periods, allowing them to engage with key figures and battles from Chinese history. Developers meticulously research historical details to create accurate and engaging narratives.
Music and Sound Design
Traditional Chinese instruments such as the guzheng and erhu are oftentimes used in game soundtracks, creating an emotional connection to the setting and reinforcing the cultural atmosphere.
Here are a few Chinese game developers known for incorporating history and culture into their games, blending historical narratives, mythology, and/or religion into immersive gaming experiences.
Chinese Game Developers
NetEase Games
One notable game from NetEase is Justice Online (2018), a MMORPG set in ancient China, featuring historical architecture, clothing, and martial arts. The game represents ancient Chinese landscapes and martial arts traditions.
Another game is Onmyoji (2016), a strategy RPG inspired by Chinese and Japanese folklore and mythology. The game draws from classical Chinese cosmology and supernatural beliefs.
Tencent Games
Notable Chinese games developed by Tencent are Honor of Kings (2015), a MOBA inspired by historical Chinese figures and mythology, and Moonlight Blade (2015), an open-world MMORPG rooted in traditional Chinese martial arts and historical aesthetics. Honor of Kings features characters inspired by historical and mythical Chinese heroes whereas Moonlight Blade showcases ancient architecture and Wuxia-style combat.
Game Science
Black Myth: Wukong is an Action RPG based on the 16th-century classic Journey to the West. The game stays true to Chinese mythology and Buddhist symbolism, presenting a rich, visually striking world inspired by ancient art and literature. If you want to read more about the history and culture of Black Myth: Wukong, you can see our article Black Myth: Wukong - History Through a Modern Classic.
Seasun Games
JX Online series (since 2003) – An MMORPG based on the martial arts culture of ancient China. The JX Online series incorporates detailed representations of ancient Chinese weaponry, martial arts techniques, and clothing styles.
Ultizero Games
Lost Soul Aside is an upcoming action RPG influenced by Chinese mythology and history. While it incorporates fantasy elements (Wuxia), the visual design and weaponry reflect Chinese cultural influences.
Aurogon
Aurogon Shanghai developed the Gujian series (2010–Present), a fantasy RPG series based on Chinese mythology and historical settings. The game features traditional Chinese art styles, hanfu clothing, and historical references. The game’s soundtrack and character names are inspired by classical Chinese music and poetry.
Softstar Technology (Beijing)
Chinese Paladin series (1995–Present) is a classic RPG series inspired by Chinese Wuxia tales and historical themes. The characters, landscapes, and combat styles are a reflection of traditional Chinese martial arts and mythology. The storylines incorporate Confucian and Taoist philosophy.
24 Entertainment
Naraka: Bladepoint (2021) is a free-to-play Wuxia, martial arts action battle royale game developed by 24 Entertainment. The game’s combat system is based on traditional martial arts, and the environment design draws from ancient Chinese architecture and landscapes.
Misty Mountain Studio
The Rewinder (2021) is a puzzle-adventure game rooted in Chinese folklore and history. Traditional Chinese ink painting art style and mythology influence the game’s visuals and narrative.
Wildfire Studio
Wildfire developed Eastern Exorcist (2020), is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG featuring demon-slaying mechanics inspired by Chinese mythology. The game’s art style and narrative reflect ancient Chinese supernatural beliefs and Taoist traditions.
Final Thoughts
Chinese game developers are successfully blending history, mythology, and philosophy to create culturally rich and globally appealing experiences. This approach not only preserves Chinese cultural heritage but also introduces it to a broader audience through innovative gameplay and storytelling. By merging modern game development techniques with centuries-old traditions, Chinese games have become both innovative and culturally significant in the global gaming landscape.
