Seminar 4

This seminar explored the potential of integrating Chinese mythology into mobile games, using the popular Japanese mobile game “Monster Strike” as a case study. The speaker, Dr. Tong Tsz Ben Benson, highlighted the game's success, its cultural impact, and its creative approach to incorporating Chinese mythical elements into its gameplay.

The seminar began by introducing “Monster Strike,” a mobile game that achieved immense popularity in 2015, ranking second in Japan and third globally in terms of revenue. Dr. Tong emphasized the game's popularity and its subsequent expansion into various derivative productions, including film series, festivals, and toys.

Dr. Tong first addressed the different definitions of monsters in Chinese myths, distinguishing between the narrow definition of animal form monsters and broader definition of human-animal hybrids. He then delved into the game's integration of Chinese mythical tales, specifically focusing on the mythical creature Taotie （饕餮）. He traced its roots to ancient bronze artefacts and its presence in classical literature Classic of Mountains and Seas. He highlighted how the game creatively utilizes Taotie as a game character. The visual design, including its exaggerated features and its depiction of gluttony, are directly inspired by the myths, reflecting the symbolic themes of greed, materialism, and the pursuit of wealth. He further explored how the character's abilities and gameplay mechanics are designed to reflect its mythical origins, highlighting the game's successful integration of Chinese mythology into its gameplay. And in similar analysis, he showcased how the game presented Nuwa （女媧）, Zhuyin （燭陰）, and Xiwangmu （西王母）. He also showed examples of in-game adaptations of Japanese myths and their Chinese myth origins, such as Yatagarasu （八咫烏）, Kamaitachi （鐮鼬）, and Nue （鵺）.

The seminar concluded by emphasising the game's success as a testament to the growing popularity of mobile gaming and the potential of cultural fusion in this medium. Dr. Tong encouraged the audience to further explore the intersection of Chinese mythology and mobile gaming, suggesting that future developers can draw inspiration from “Monster Strike” and its innovative approach to integrating cultural elements into their creative writing and production.