Best Games By Chinese Developers

Highlights

Asian developers showcase rich folklore in games, widening the market for non-Western studios globally.
Black Myth: Wukong impresses with stunning graphics and unique combat based on Chinese mythology.
Honor of Kings and F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch also stand out as top games by Chinese developers.

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for all things Chinese gaming, I must say that these games have truly captured my heart and kept me entertained for countless hours.

One of the best aspects of gaming is that the industry is so vast that many creators with innovative ideas and sufficient funds for development can carve out their own piece and introduce fresh concepts to the audience. Although large Western companies with billion-dollar budgets largely control the market, emerging developers from various countries are increasingly able to share unique stories with players around the globe.

There’s no disputing that game creators from Asia, drawing on their nations’ mythology and abundant history, have produced some of the most enduring games to exist so far. This has broadened the market for studios outside the West, and proven to the gaming community what they are capable of. To illustrate this, here’s a selection of top-notch games developed by Chinese studios.

To be clear, the focus is on games developed by companies stationed in China.

5 Special Mention: Black Myth: Wukong

A Long-Awaited AAA Chinese Title

Based on Chinese mythology and folklore
Interesting combat options and game mechanics

Since its initial reveal in February 2020, Black Myth: Wukong has captivated both Asian and Western gamers. Even during its early development phases, it showcased visually impressive graphics, a unique original concept, and fast-paced combat reminiscent of Soulsborne games. Although the game takes creative liberties, the Chinese cultural and mythological elements embedded within it are unmistakable.

As a gamer, I’m excited about stepping into the shoes of the “Destined One” in the game Black Myth: Wukong. This character is modeled after Sun Wukong from the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West”. With a magical staff that adapts to changing circumstances, I’ll face numerous challenges and battles, using my wits and staff’s size-shifting abilities to come out on top against the formidable foes standing in my way.

Despite some players criticizing the initial stage layout and limited combat options in Black Myth: Wukong, the general feeling among gamers is that it’s an entertaining game, complete with numerous issues and technical glitches, many of which could potentially be addressed through updates or patches.

Following its release, it’s premature to place Black Myth: Wukong at the top. However, given its unique qualities, it’s worth noting.

4 Naraka: Bladepoint

An Entertaining Battle Royale

Some microtransactions are present
Great Battle Royale with a unique concept

To get started, let me introduce you to Naraka: Bladepoint, an exceptional Battle Royale game developed by a Chinese studio. Launched in 2021, this game quickly gained favor among numerous players, capturing not just its massive Asian audience but also a significant portion of the Western market. At face value, the idea might seem less effective than it turned out to be. Given that most Battle Royales revolve around firearms and long-range engagements, it’s surprising that one focusing on melee weapons has been so successful.

Nevertheless, when properly designed, the game demonstrated that an unusual approach within its genre could yield fantastic results and captivate players for extended periods of time. Unfortunately, one drawback of Naraka: Bladepoint is that some transactions require micro-payments to acquire specific items within the game.

3 Honor Of Kings

An Amazingly Designed MOBA

Variants to accommodate Western markets
Fun PvE game mechanics

Back in 2015 when Honor of Kings initially dropped in China, I’ll admit there was a pinch of doubt swirling around about its potential size and profitability in such an unpredictable market. But boy, did the developers prove me wrong! It’s now a titan among MOBAs within the country. Yet, they didn’t rest on their laurels. They crafted a fresh spin-off titled “Arena of Valor,” tailoring its user interface to cater to the Western market. This strategic move has significantly expanded its international fanbase.

Unlike Naraka: Bladepoint, Honor of Kings predominantly involves fighting against artificial intelligence (AI) opponents instead of human adversaries. Victory in this game is obtained by destroying enemy structures known as turrets and ultimately, the enemy’s central crystal.

2 F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch

A Refreshing Take On The Metroidvania Genre

Dieselpunk-style world design
Fast-paced combat and great bosses

The game titled “F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch” primarily belongs to the genre known as Metroidvania, but it offers much more than meets the surface. Following an invasion and conquest by the Machine Legion on Torch City, a former war hero is compelled to rearm himself after his cherished friend is abducted against their will by the oppressive rulers of the occupation.

In Rayon’s arsenal, tools like “Fist”, “Drill”, and “Whip” are available for players to select their combat strategy wisely as they navigate a harsh world teeming with relentless adversaries. To emerge victorious in this game, players must conquer intricate puzzles, surmount formidable obstacles, and vanquish colossal bosses who will spare no effort to sabotage Rayon’s quest and thwart his attempts to save his cherished companion.

The game largely adopts a Dieselpunk aesthetic that harmoniously enhances both its mechanics and narrative, making for a highly polished side-scrolling adventure known as F.I.S.T. This game offers stunning visuals, captivating art design, immersive environments, and engaging combat. Although it may not revolutionize the genre, it undeniably demonstrates a proficiency in its fundamental principles.

1 Genshin Impact

An ARPG Masterpiece

Enemies level up with the player
Great main character’s backstory

In contrast to other Chinese games, Genshin Impact is widely recognized and beloved, having garnered significant critical acclaim and popularity across both Asian and Western markets over recent years. The game takes place in a world known as Teyvat, where players assume the role of an interstellar traveler who’s been asleep for 500 years following his separation from his twin sister. Players are tasked with exploring the seven distinct regions within this area in search of answers to their shared past.

The gameplay in Genshin Impact centers around a diverse elemental system that includes wind, fire, thunder, water, ice, plant, and rock. Players can utilize one or more of these elements according to their character’s build, forming unique attack sequences to overcome any foes they meet during their adventure. A standout feature of Genshin Impact is the dynamic progression where enemies grow stronger as the player does, ensuring an exciting and challenging experience at all times. Always expanding through updates and new characters, Genshin Impact is known for its grand scale, depth, and addictive gameplay.

miHoYo’s other games, especially
Honkai: Star Rail
, are also great.

2024-08-20 14:34