Video game developers in China are increasingly focused on creating high-quality titles that can compete with major Western releases, such as the iconic Grand Theft Auto series. Qiwai Liang, director of the action RPG game Phantom Blade Zero, emphasizes that there are many plans in the country to develop large productions aimed at raising the industry standard to meet the growing expectations of Chinese players.
Those who stand out, do it big
One of the most notable examples of this change is Black Myth: Wukong, a mythological action RPG that has been considered the Chinese equivalent of Grand Theft Auto. The game has recouped its initial investment of 43 million dollars in just a few weeks, which represents a significant milestone for the gaming industry in China and reinforces the idea that local developers can create solid titles that attract both domestic and international players.
However, Liang warns that, despite the advances, the quality of many titles still needs to improve. “For most, the quality is still at a basic level,” he states, highlighting the need for innovation and improvement in the development process. This constructive criticism reflects a commitment to excellence, unlike the approach of some studios that prioritize quick profits.
Liang’s vision for his studio, S-GAME, goes beyond simply making economic profits; each release is seen as a stepping stone towards a more ambitious project: a large kung fu action RPG. Although his team has been working on Phantom Blade Zero for about three years and still has no release date, Liang claims that this meticulous approach is essential for establishing a solid reputation in the competitive video game market.
