[PREVIEW] Where Winds Meet Preview: Epic Wuxia Action RPG
Preview: Where Winds Meet — A Grand Wuxia Action RPG from NetEase
If you are looking for an open-world action RPG that combines sprawling landscapes, kung fu combat, and a narrative worthy of classic wuxia novels, Where Winds Meet from NetEase and Everstone Studio might just be the game for you. In a recent playtest, I had the chance to explore this world on its PC test server, and the experience deeply impressed me.
Setting and Story
The game thrusts players into a turbulent era inspired by China’s Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. You begin your journey as a young sword master who was rescued by a warrior when you were just a baby. As you grow, you carry a mysterious jade emblem given by your savior—an object whose meaning remains unknown. One day, a masked martial artist attacks and steals the emblem, which sets you on a journey to recover it and understand your true identity. Alongside the seasoned warriors Gram and Enki, you will face political intrigue, ancient sects, and the secrets of your own past.
Graphics and Sound
The game’s visuals are nothing short of stunning. The open world is richly detailed, from sunlight glinting on water surfaces to lush foliage swaying in the breeze. Character models are equally impressive, with traditional wuxia-style clothing rendered in high detail. The soundtrack complements this with sweeping orchestral pieces and serene melodies that match the game’s martial and natural themes perfectly.
Exploration and World Design
Much like Genshin Impact, Where Winds Meet offers a vast open world waiting to be discovered. You can explore by foot or mount, glide over terrain, gather herbs to craft potions, hunt wildlife, or take on bandits hiding in remote areas. The map is filled with hidden treasures, puzzles, and waypoints that encourage deep exploration and reward curiosity. Fast travel lets you traverse previously visited areas quickly, and the sense of freedom feels genuinely expansive.
Combat Mechanics
The combat in Where Winds Meet leans into a Souls-like feel. Managing stamina is crucial, as is timing your attacks, dodges, or stances. You can use basic attacks, powerful martial arts skills learned from various sects, or finish off weakened enemies with flashy cinematic moves. When you’re defending, a red glow around enemies signals an opportunity to parry and counter, giving depth to the martial combat system. Without “assist” settings on, the combat feels tight and challenging; with assist enabled, it becomes more forgiving.
Weapon Variety and Playstyles
One of the game’s strongest points is its flexibility in combat styles. Players can choose from swords, dual blades, spears, bows, fans, and even umbrellas. Each weapon type changes your entire move set. For example, dual blades are fast and agile, perfect for DPS builds, while larger swords offer more reach and crowd control. Fans and umbrellas lean toward supportive or ranged playstyles, making the game highly adaptable for solo or cooperative play.
Mastery Through Observation
A standout feature is how the game integrates learning martial arts from the environment. Early on, I observed a bear punching a tree to get honey to fall—by studying its movements, I unlocked a bear-style martial art for my character. This kind of emergent learning feels deeply immersive and clever, encouraging you to watch the world around you for hidden techniques rather than just farming the same skill trees.
THIS IS OUR SAY
Where Winds Meet feels like a love letter to wuxia fans. It doesn’t just let you fight like a martial arts hero—it teaches you to think, move, and live like one. With its open world, fluid combat, and meaningful exploration, this could be one of the most authentic kung fu RPGs in years. If the final version lives up to this preview, it’s going to be a masterpiece worth every minute.
