The Growing Presence of China in Video Games

In the world of video games, China’s cultural and historical themes have long been an underrepresented treasure trove, with few titles capturing the depth and richness of its settings or stories. Beyond representation, finding games both made in China and available in English has often been a challenge. Yet, with an increasing global interest in fresh stories and landscapes, China is fast becoming a powerhouse in the gaming industry. Both through its influence on international titles and a new generation of homegrown studios, a wave of games inspired by or set in China is reaching audiences worldwide.

Whether exploring ancient dynasties, legendary martial arts, or modern-day family life, these games offer unique perspectives. From cult classics to new blockbusters, here’s a look at some standout titles that showcase China’s growing role in gaming and why now is the time for gamers to explore what they have to offer.

1. Jade Empire – BioWare’s Cult Classic of Chinese Fantasy

Platform(s): Xbox (Original), PC, Android, iOS

Developer(s): BioWare

Released: April 12, 2005

BioWare, known for RPG giants like Mass Effect and Dragon Age, took a bold step in 2005 with Jade Empire, a game inspired by Chinese mythology and martial arts. Unlike typical Western RPGs, Jade Empire was set in a fictional empire steeped in Eastern philosophy, showcasing a storyline influenced by the “wuxia” genre, where martial arts heroes embark on epic journeys. While it didn’t achieve massive commercial success, Jade Empire quickly gained a cult following due to its innovative combat system and storytelling, which wove kung-fu mastery with supernatural abilities.

For fans of RPGs looking to explore a distinctly Chinese-inspired narrative with depth and authenticity, Jade Empire remains a must-play. Though it hasn’t yet received a sequel or a remake, fans and critics alike continue to celebrate its contribution to gaming. Its influence can still be seen in BioWare’s work, and many hope it’s a sign of more to come.

2. Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China – Ming Dynasty Stealth Action

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox One

Developer(s): Ubisoft, Climax Studios

Released: April 21, 2015

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China stands out as one of the few entries in the Assassin’s Creed franchise to step away from Western settings. Set in the Ming Dynasty, players control Shao Jun, a Chinese Assassin, on her quest for revenge and justice. Unlike the typical open-world format of Assassin’s Creed, Chronicles utilizes a 2.5D platforming style, offering a unique stealth experience with traditional Chinese art influences.

While it may not have the depth or scale of its franchise siblings, Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China shines through its aesthetic and innovative gameplay. It demonstrates how mainstream franchises can bring new cultural perspectives into familiar gameplay styles, showing the potential for other major titles to explore the vast histories of China.

3. Romance of the Three Kingdoms III: Dragon of Destiny – A Grand Strategy Gem

Platform(s): PC, PS1, Sega CD, Sega Genesis, SNES, TurboGrafx-CD

Developer(s): Koei

Released: February 4, 1993

Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a Japanese-made grand strategy series that dives into one of China’s most fascinating historical periods: the Three Kingdoms era. Beginning in 1985, this franchise has since become legendary in its genre, offering players complex maps of ancient China, character-based strategy, and the choice to use diplomacy or war to achieve dominance. Each title has built on the last, refining this intense and rewarding strategy experience.

Romance of the Three Kingdoms III: Dragon of Destiny is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the series. While challenging for newcomers, it’s an excellent introduction to grand strategy, steeped in Chinese history, and has inspired many similar games. Despite its hardcore appeal, it remains a crucial game for fans of historical and tactical strategy games.

4. Chinese Parents – A Casual Simulator with Heart

Platform(s): PC

Developer(s): Moyuwan Games

Released: September 29, 2018

Not every game about China needs to be epic in scope. Chinese Parents explores family life in modern China through a simple but poignant life simulation. In this indie gem, players experience the pressures and challenges of growing up in a high-achieving environment, from homework and exams to parental expectations. With a lighthearted tone, the game dives into social themes and gives a surprisingly universal glimpse into childhood and the drive for success.

Chinese Parents resonated with a wide audience worldwide, largely due to its relatable narrative and cozy gameplay. It’s a fantastic example of how cultural specificity can foster universality, showing that a well-told story can resonate across borders.

5. Age of Wushu – Martial Arts MMO with Chinese Roots

Platform(s): PC

Developer(s): Snail Games

Released: 2012

Age of Wushu is an MMORPG that dives deeply into the world of Chinese martial arts, or wuxia. Set in the Ming Dynasty, the game allows players to join various martial arts factions, each offering unique skills and fighting styles, in a world without traditional character classes. This freedom to choose fighting styles lets players create distinct identities within a richly detailed setting inspired by classic Chinese martial arts films.

Although it’s been a decade since its release, Age of Wushu still holds a place in the MMO landscape due to its ambitious mechanics and dedication to Chinese culture. It remains an innovative MMORPG that allows players to immerse themselves in a historical yet fantastical China, exploring the power of martial arts in an online world.

6. Black Myth: Wukong – China’s Big Breakout Hit

Platform(s): PlayStation 5, PC

Developer(s): Game Science

Released: August 20, 2024

One of the most anticipated games of recent years, Black Myth: Wukong is a stunning action RPG based on the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. Developed by Game Science, this title combines Soulslike combat with Chinese myth, allowing players to embody Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, as he battles various mythological foes. With breathtaking visuals, advanced combat mechanics, and cultural authenticity, Black Myth: Wukong has garnered immense excitement globally.

Its popularity is not only a testament to the demand for Chinese-inspired games but also a milestone for Chinese developers reaching international acclaim. Black Myth: Wukong promises to be a game-changing title that will likely inspire more developers to explore China’s rich lore, blending tradition with modern gameplay.

7. Total War: Three Kingdoms – Epic Battles in Ancient China

Platform(s): PC

Developer(s): Creative Assembly

Released: May 23, 2019

The Total War series has long been known for its sweeping historical battles, and Total War: Three Kingdoms brought that experience to ancient China’s Three Kingdoms period. Creative Assembly’s meticulous approach to history is evident here, with players navigating the political, economic, and military chaos of post-Han dynasty China. Combining diplomacy, character-driven storytelling, and large-scale battles, this installment is a strategic masterpiece.

The game’s success shows how the appeal of Chinese history has grown among global audiences and illustrates the potential of strategy games set in China. For fans of Total War or grand strategy games, Three Kingdoms is a must-play and a high point in the franchise’s history.

The Future of Chinese Games: A Growing Global Influence

The Chinese gaming market has seen explosive growth over the last decade, and Chinese studios are now creating titles that resonate internationally. Games like Black Myth: Wukong prove that China is on the verge of a new era in gaming, with developers increasingly confident in their unique storytelling and artistic expression.

As Chinese games continue to break through the global market, players worldwide will have the opportunity to explore fresh perspectives, historical sagas, and cultural insights. For those new to these titles, now is the perfect time to start exploring these worlds and experiencing the depth and creativity Chinese games have to offer.

From action-packed RPGs and MMOs to strategy games and slice-of-life simulations, Chinese games are reshaping the industry, and it’s likely only the beginning. We’re entering a decade where Chinese-inspired titles will bring even more diversity and creativity to gaming, offering experiences that not only entertain but also deepen our appreciation of China’s vast heritage and its modern creativity.