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Where Winds Meet global beta test underway

Where Winds Meet, a new open-world game, has launched its beta test for players around the globe.

July 31, 2025 at 03:01 PM
blur Where Winds Meet: Our Thoughts After 3 Hours in its Wuxia World

The game offers a rich experience of the wuxia genre within an open-world format.

Where Winds Meet combines classic elements in a fresh way

Last weekend, Where Winds Meet, an open-world game by NetEase, began its global beta test, having already launched in China. Set around 1000 AD, during the tumultuous period of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, players act as a lone hero navigating a world where personal strength prevails over societal rules. The game draws inspiration from well-known titles like Ghost of Tsushima and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, but it uniquely merges these influences with a strong emphasis on wuxia. The gameplay introduces innovative mechanics like learning techniques from observing wildlife, as players can gain skills such as tai chi from observing a bear. Combat mechanics feature a parry system akin to current action games, enhanced by strategic elements that offer depth and customization. The world itself is a vibrant recreation of ancient China, filled with numerous NPCs and rich opportunities for exploration. Despite its familiar features, the integration of wuxia elements into these systems makes for a distinctive gaming experience.

Key Takeaways

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Where Winds Meet is a unique blend of wuxia and modern gaming mechanics.
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The game's open world is set during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms.
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Players learn skills by observing and interacting with nature.
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Combat systems feature a parry mechanic similar to modern action games.
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Rich attention to cultural detail enhances the gaming environment.
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NPC interactions allow players to build unique relationships.

"This game is closely linked to the wuxia tradition."

The game's design deeply incorporates cultural elements of wuxia.

"A sense of 'wuxia-ness' oozes out at every turn."

Highlights the strong cultural influence on gameplay.

Where Winds Meet stands out as it deftly integrates popular gaming mechanics with traditional Chinese storytelling. Developers have harnessed a rich cultural backdrop to create an immersive experience that feels both familiar and new. By blending the dynamic gameplay players love with historical themes, the game has potential to attract a diverse audience, including those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the wuxia genre. This approach not only appeals to seasoned gamers but also invites newcomers to engage with cultural narratives. As the gaming industry focuses on innovation, Where Winds Meet demonstrates the successful fusion of tradition and modernity, encouraging other developers to explore similar paths.

Highlights

  • Wuxia tradition seeps through every aspect of gameplay.
  • It offers a unique look at a fascinating historical era.
  • Players can truly connect with nature in this game.
  • The blend of old and new sends a strong message for future gaming.

Cultural sensitivity and public reaction risk

Where Winds Meet presents a historical narrative that could attract both admiration and controversy depending on its portrayal of cultural themes. Given the game's roots in wuxia tradition, any inaccuracies or misrepresentations could lead to public backlash.

This game is a promising step in the evolution of cultural representation in gaming.

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