Open world wuxia RPG Where Winds Meet is having a city-sized playtest this month

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You may recall “Where Winds Meet” as the open-world Wuxia RPG that combines breathtaking calligraphy scenes with chaotic depictions of ruffian sword masters terrorizing innocent bears using sonic assaults, leaving groups of chimney sweeps immobilized by chained Blink attacks, and being pursued relentlessly by irate geese.

If you choose not to do so, you have the option to either watch the trailer below or read Ed Thorn’s (RPS, rest in peace) preview from 2023. In his review, he expressed excitement about the game but also had concerns that it might become a chaotic and overextended mix. After that, you could think about participating in the game’s upcoming playtest, which takes place from July 25th to July 30th.

Where Winds Meet – Official Extended Gameplay Reveal Trailer | gamescom 2022

In the gameplay demonstration, we are introduced to the city of Kaifeng, spanning more than a million square meters to explore. You can interact with approximately 10,000 non-player characters (NPCs), some of whom you can befriend or antagonize, pickpocket, get into scuffles with (maybe if they catch you pickpocketing), and task for quests. It’s unclear whether the 10,000 NPCs refer to individually modeled characters, the number appearing on screen at once, or simply the total number in the city. The figure could use some context to make it more meaningful. I was considering eliminating that detail, but then I’d have to revise all of this. Ugh, let’s carry on.

Experience “dramatic differences” – from the opulence of Fanlou Golden Street to the hardships of impoverished slums, from grand palaces to the enigmatic ghost market. Enjoy a variety of traditional Chinese pastimes such as soaking in bathhouses and watching classical operas. The city’s appearance will adapt according to your choices: “barren wheat fields may regain their vigor, and rundown streets can transform into bustling neighborhoods”. It seems more like a video game setting, but my main goal here is to leave you all puzzled with an umbrella.

The creators of this game are Everstone Studio, while it is published by NetEase, who have been creating a stir with their high-budget projects and recent layoff speculations. Would you be interested in joining the playtest? It’s set to run on Steam, but remember to sign up through this link.

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2025-07-14 20:25