Chinese Games Inspire Overseas Players to Embark on 'Pilgrimages'
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Loading... - Genji Cheng
- 16 Jul 2024
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In recent years, the rapid development of China's gaming industry has led to the creation of domestically produced games that incorporate rich Chinese cultural elements. These elements have not only gained immense popularity among international gamers but also sparked a unique trend known as game "pilgrimages." This refers to game enthusiasts visiting real-world locations that inspired their favorite games, turning these sites into "holy lands."
The Rise of Game Pilgrimages
Genshin Impact and Its Global Influence
One notable example is the game "Genshin Impact," which has gone viral on major video-sharing platforms. German blogger Mikado, for instance, showcased gameplay footage alongside real-life locations in China resembling the game's scenes. His video received over 700,000 views, promoting various Chinese scenic spots.
“As a player and fan of Genshin Impact, I often saw travel recommendations for this game on various video platforms. To learn more about the culture and stories behind the game, I registered an account on BiliBili (the Chinese equivalent of YouTube). My friends and I discovered potential real-world locations in China that served as the game's inspiration,” Mikado told Global Times.
Through video platforms, Mikado planned a detailed route for a game pilgrimage in China, posting videos along the way. He found many real-life locations corresponding to the game's scenes, satisfying players' curiosity and desire to explore game culture.
From Virtual to Reality
Mikado's interest in Chinese culture began at age 12 with the martial arts game "Age of Wushu." His fascination with Chinese games led him to major in Chinese language, history, and East Asian art history at university.
"When I first started playing Genshin Impact, I noticed the game's landscapes were strikingly similar to real-world sites, such as the Huaguang Stone Forest in the game to Zhangjiajie, the Luhua Pool to Huanglong, and the Verdant Canyon to Yangshuo," Mikado said.
This information sparked his desire to visit China, not only to see these incredible landscapes in person but also to gain inspiration for his Chinese art studies, particularly in flower, mountain, and bamboo styles.
Memorable Experiences
Mikado found that Huanglong and Guilin most closely resemble the environments in Genshin Impact. Parts of Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou also share similarities. Visiting these places was one of his most memorable experiences.
"I was particularly impressed with the well-organized national parks and environmental awareness in China, balancing nature conservation with visitor access. Europe doesn't have landscapes like Zhangjiajie, Huanglong, or Yangshuo. Although we have stunning scenery like the Swiss Alps, the diversity and uniqueness of Chinese landscapes are unparalleled," Mikado noted.
The Impact of Chinese Games
Activities like bamboo rafting, which appear in Genshin Impact, enriched Mikado's experience and understanding of the region. His trip was about cultural exchange and experiencing local traditions, such as Sichuan opera and unique cuisines like hotpot and sweet water noodles.
According to the "2023 China Game Overseas Development Report," Chinese game companies have normalized their overseas operations, with a growing presence in North American and European markets. This has led to a broader dissemination of Chinese culture through games.
Chinese game companies frequently place billboards in major cities, popular areas, public transportation, and large sports events worldwide. Games like Genshin Impact, Rise of Kingdoms, and AFK Arena have advertised in places like New York's Times Square, capturing global players' attention.
"I was pleasantly surprised and felt a sense of familiarity when I saw ads for Chinese games in Japanese subway stations and anime conventions," Wang Haoran, a Chinese student in Japan, told Global Times. "Recently, I've noticed a significant increase in Japanese friends playing Chinese games."
Future Pilgrimages and Plans
Mikado's pilgrimage is far from over. "I plan to visit Chengdu to see the pandas and celebrate the Lantern Festival in Zigong. My travel itinerary includes taking a train from Guangzhou to Guilin, then a boat to Yangshuo. I've researched various options, such as hiring a driver for transportation. I also plan to visit historical cities like Xi'an, Chongqing, and Luoyang."
This growing trend of game pilgrimages highlights the significant cultural impact of Chinese games on international players, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of Chinese culture and history.
