Open World RPG ‘Where Winds Meet’ Already Gaining Major Popularity

Since its launch in December 2024 exclusively in China, “Where Winds Meet,” an open-world action RPG by NetEase, has rapidly grown in popularity, drawing in over 15 million players. This surge of interest isn’t just notable; it’s a testament to the game’s engaging design and immersive world. As fans outside China eagerly anticipate their chance to explore this virtual realm, plans are underway for a global rollout in 2025, though initially, only the iOS version will be available. The availability on other platforms remains uncertain, but details are expected to follow.

Created by Everstone Studios and published by NetEase, famed for its Marvel Rivals, this historical adventure garnered a massive following within weeks of its release. Drawing comparisons with “Black Myth: Wukong,” a fellow AAA title from China, “Where Winds Meet” captivates with its action-packed RPG elements set in an expansive open world. Its success speaks volumes about the Chinese gaming industry’s potential to make waves beyond mobile platforms.

The rise of the Chinese gaming market is no accident. Over the years, it has established a stronghold in the mobile gaming sector and is now setting its sights on the PC and console landscapes. Last year, “Black Myth: Wukong” by Game Science made a sensational debut, selling over 25 million copies within six months. Inspired by “Journey to the West,” its incredible reception set a new standard for Chinese AAA releases, and “Where Winds Meet” seems poised to reach similar heights.

According to NetEase’s financial results for late 2024 and early 2025, “Where Winds Meet” achieved notable milestones shortly after its January 9 iOS launch, climbing swiftly to the top of download charts. This was after experiencing rapid growth on PC, where it amassed over three million downloads in just a few days. Alongside this triumph, NetEase highlighted the ongoing success of “Marvel Rivals,” which has attracted more than 45 million players, showcasing the company’s impactful presence in the gaming world.

As for “Where Winds Meet,” its upcoming international release is set for 2025, though details remain sparse about non-iOS versions. While this may lead to speculation among fans, the mobile debut could pave the way for forthcoming announcements about its expansion to other platforms.

In addition to “Where Winds Meet,” the horizon is broadening with another promising game from China, “Phantom Blade Zero.” Announced earlier in May 2023 and set to launch in Fall 2026 for PC and PS5, this RPG shares a martial arts theme, hinting at exciting times ahead for enthusiasts of the genre.