The Legend of Tianding

The Legend of Tianding is an arcade platform game and the debut production of Creative Games Computer Graphics Corporation, a studio openly promoting Taiwanese history and culture. It was published by Neon Doctrine.

Plot

The game takes place in the early years of the twentieth century on the streets of the Taiwanese city of Taipei in the Dadaocheng region, during the Japanese occupation. As a folk hero Liao Tianding we fight against the regime, standing up to the oppression of the privileged rich who torment the citizens. We fight against both the officials and the thugs in the service of the rich, as well as themselves, as bosses, in epic battles. All in the name of justice and liberation, and to take back the riches gained by exploiting the local people and return them to their rightful owners as Taiwan's Robin Hood. The story is inspired by historical events and figures.

Game mechanics

As we move through levels shown in a side view, we jump on platforms, avoid traps, and fight numerous opponents to get to and defeat key enemies. In skirmishes, in addition to kung-fu techniques and the hero's weapons (dagger and sash), we use captured weapons (also ranged), which, however, wear out quickly. The key element are combinations of attacks, which can be performed in many ways to achieve various effects, such as inflicting higher damage, immobilizing or moving enemies. There are many combinations available and we learn them gradually, during every fight.

We can also learn new attacks and movement techniques by finding kung-fu manuals in the nooks and crannies of the locations. Also noteworthy is the system of "collectibles": gaining permanent hero's upgrades is accompanied by unlocking historical facts about Taiwan from the time when the action takes place, in the form of pictures or graphics with a short description. Bonuses can be adjusted to our style of play also by wearing magical talismans.

As a break from fighting, we can visit safe locations to play a traditional Taiwanese card game.

Technical aspects

Graphics combines 3D environment with 2D gameplay. It is based on traditional Chinese manhua, in a characteristic retro comic style from the 1980s. An oriental music that fits the reality and emotional narration, reminiscent of radio coverage, adds mood to the game.

Last updated on 16 October 2023