The Best Games Set in China

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The Best Games Set in China

As a seasoned gamer with a soft spot for games set in China, let me share my insights on some of the best video games that transport you to the heart of this ancient land.

In China, where censorship regulations are severe, you might find it surprising that only a few video games depict the country, and even fewer explore a contemporary representation of it. But don’t be disheartened, as there are still many excellent game choices for those with an interest in Chinese history and culture.

Exceptional video games based on China offer a captivating peek into how life in this significant cultural hub could have unfolded, all while showcasing the country’s breathtaking artistic styles and architectural wonders. Mostly centered around combat and fighting, there’s still a wealth of engaging titles for those who prefer immersive narratives.

7 Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty

OpenCritic Rating: 81

In early 2023, Team Ninja released a new action RPG titled “Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty.” This game is set in China during the era of the Yellow Turban Rebellion, with its story drawing loosely on the famous historical novel, “Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” which has influenced numerous video game series like “Dynasty Warriors.

In the storyline of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, although it incorporates supernatural elements derived from Chinese mythology and folklore, many of its events are grounded in historical reality, much like the locations where these incidents unfold. If you enjoyed Team Ninja’s Nioh series or have a fondness for games set in China, Wo Long is definitely worth checking out.

6 Bladed Fury

OpenCritic Rating: 70

Originating from Shanghai’s NEXT Studios, the 2D action game titled “Bladed Fury” is set in ancient China. Although it’s brief and at times tough, the thrill of its hack-and-slash combat is hard to beat, and the narrative keeps you hooked throughout.

Without a doubt, the most captivating aspect of this game lies in its extraordinary graphics, inspired by classic Chinese art forms. The backdrops and character designs are breathtakingly beautiful, making it stand out among other 2D action games such as Katana Zero and Dead Cells.

5 SIFU

OpenCritic Rating: 81

Despite some Western critics labeling SIFU as a lifeless imitation, the game garnered immense popularity in China, with numerous individuals commending its authenticity in terms of both combat and setting. To achieve this authenticity, the developer Sloclap recruited Benjamin Colussi: a master of kung fu who spent decades perfecting his skills in Foshan, China.

To maintain authenticity, creators of the game SIFU consulted Chinese calligraphers and collaborated with Beijing-based musician Howie Lee on its soundtrack. The result is a minimalist masterpiece that effectively portrays both the martial arts and settings of southern China.

4 Jade Empire

OpenCritic Rating: N/A

Nowadays, BioWare is primarily recognized for its creations like “Mass Effect” and “Dragon Age”, but at the turn of the century, this renowned Canadian studio had a more diverse portfolio. Apart from contributing to the “Star Wars” and “Baldur’s Gate” series, they also developed numerous memorable standalone games. One such game was an action role-playing gem called “Jade Empire”.

Jade Empire blends aspects spanning various periods of China’s historical timeline, such as the Tang, Song, and Han dynasties. The game combats are heavily influenced by authentic fighting techniques, with the lead animator drawing inspiration from classic kung fu films featuring Jet Li and other renowned martial artists.

3 Shenmue 2

OpenCritic Rating: N/A

In the initial two-thirds of Shenmue 2, the action unfolds in Hong Kong, but later on, players venture into mainland China. Upon their entry, they will notice that Guilin contrasts significantly with the chaotic Kowloon walled city. The journey to Bailu Village establishes a new mood for the remainder of the game, marking a distinct shift from what was experienced earlier.

If you’re seeking a game that immerses you in China, Shenmue 3 could be the perfect choice, as it offers a more authentic portrayal of rural Chinese life during the late eighties due to Yu Suzuki’s careful attention to detail. However, its predecessor is generally considered a superior game and can now be found at very affordable prices along with the initial installment in the series.

2 Black Myth: Wukong

OpenCritic Rating: 82

Regardless if Black Myth: Wukong falls under the Soulslike category or not, it’s clear that it will likely captivate fans of that genre. Moreover, it serves as an excellent choice for gamers who find the usual high difficulty of Soulslike games challenging, yet despite being more accessible, the game is far from being an easy conquest.

Black Myth: Wukong derives a large portion of its ideas from the classic novel Journey to the West, and it’s set in an imaginative depiction of ancient China. Notably, several destinations that gamers explore are modeled after actual locations scattered across the Shanxi province, which has seen a significant surge in tourism due to the game’s massive popularity post-launch.

1 Dynasty Warriors

OpenCritic Rating: N/A

As a dedicated enthusiast, I can confidently assert that among the video games that masterfully capture the essence of ancient China, none quite compare to the epic saga of Koei Tecmo’s Dynasty Warriors franchise. Much like countless others, this series immerses us in the rich tapestry of Luo Guanzhong’s seminal historical novel, “Romance of The Three Kingdoms.” We find ourselves stepping into the shoes of characters from this era, reenacting monumental battles that shaped China’s history, all across key locations within the vast and storied land.

Ever since its launch in 1997, no musou hack-and-slash series has managed to rival the influence that Dynasty Warriors has exerted on both the genre and the gaming industry as a whole. If you’re interested in exploring a significant slice of Chinese history or simply crave a game where you can feel like an invincible warrior, Dynasty Warriors is definitely worth checking out.

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2024-11-05 17:06