Interview with the developers of AAA MMORPG "Revolutionary Xui Shuian" ahead of its launch in Japan. Features include a non-Pay-to-Win monetization system and integration of cutting-edge AI [TGS2025]
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/914/G091423/20250925070/
Editorial Department: Akasaka | 2025/10/01 03:33 (UTC)
NetEase Games showcased its upcoming global release title “Sword of Justice (Yaku Suikan)” (available on PC / iOS / Android) at Tokyo Game Show 2025.
This game is an MMORPG developed by Zhurong Studio, a subsidiary of NetEase Games. Set during China’s Northern Song Dynasty, it adapts the novel series “Four Great Detectives” by Wen Ruian, specifically its story arc titled “Sword of Justice.” In China, the PC version launched in 2018 and the mobile version in 2023, both achieving top-tier revenue performance. It has become one of NetEase Games’ flagship titles.
Starting September 26, the game has launched its first closed beta test in Japan. We interviewed Mumu (Ford Zheng), the overseas chief planner (who declined to appear on camera), and here’s what we learned.
4Gamer:
Thank you for joining us today. Could you briefly introduce Sword of Justice?
Mumu:
Sword of Justice is a next-generation open-world MMORPG, packed with cutting-edge AI technology. It’s currently live in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, with plans to launch globally—including Japan—by the end of 2025.
4Gamer:
How has it been received in China?
Mumu:
It’s become many young players’ first MMORPG experience, earning high praise. Its popularity stems largely from two features: a monetization system focused on appearance (not power), and an exceptionally high degree of freedom in gameplay.
4Gamer:
So there’s no Pay-to-Win element?
Mumu:
Correct. The primary revenue comes from costumes—there are absolutely no pay-to-win mechanics. We offer over 1,000 free costumes, while paid ones start at the price of a single drink.
4Gamer:
It’s impressive that such strong revenue has been achieved with this model. Earlier today, we saw a fashion show at your booth featuring traditional Chinese attire. Are in-game costumes limited to traditional styles?
Mumu:
No—our game offers a wide variety of costume styles, including fantasy, cute, sexy, school uniforms, and even sci-fi themes. All costumes allow color customization and shape adjustments, enabling infinite variations based on players’ creativity.
4Gamer:
We also had a chance to try the game at your booth. One thing that really surprised us was how the gameplay style shifted from 3D action RPG to 2D platformer mid-dungeon. Was that a special feature of that dungeon?
Mumu:
Yes, it’s part of the “Autumn Storm Painting Studio” dungeon’s unique design—specifically created to depict an ink painting world using a 2D artistic style.
4Gamer:
The visual effect was stunning. Overall, we were deeply impressed by the game’s vibrant graphics.
4Gamer:
On the other hand, since it’s already live in China, there are so many available activities that deciding where to start was overwhelming. For players who don’t have time for everything, what would you recommend?
Mumu:
While the game’s high freedom makes it hard to pick just one content type, we’ve designed it so even time-limited players can enjoy it. Daily missions take only 2–3 minutes and let players choose their own tasks—those who love combat should try dungeons, while others might prefer housing or photo-taking quests.
4Gamer:
What about the story? It’s based on a wuxia novel—do most Chinese people know it?
Mumu:
The original novels were already popular, but now, by far more players have discovered them through the game than through reading. While we built our world around the source material, 99% of the in-game story is original content—so fans don’t need to read the books beforehand.
4Gamer:
To be honest, seeing “Sword of Justice” as the English title feels a bit off at first glance. The three Chinese characters and the literal translation “Sword of Justice” don’t quite align in tone or imagery. Does “Yaku Suikan” have any conventional meaning in China?
Mumu:
“Sword of Justice” is the name of a sword from the original novel, which inspired our English title. The core meaning of the Chinese characters remains unchanged. We believe players in both China and Japan will perceive the title similarly—it’s recognized as an IP name rather than emphasizing “justice” or “sword” literally.
4Gamer:
Between PC and mobile versions, which one has more players?
Mumu:
It’s hard to say—many players use mobile during the day and switch to PC at night. But data is fully synchronized across platforms, so you can play with the same account seamlessly.
4Gamer:
You emphasize “cutting-edge AI”—how exactly are you using it?
Mumu:
We apply AI technology in character customization, NPC dialogue, facial expressions and motion, voice generation, video creation, and more. Importantly, AI doesn’t replace players—it supports them. It handles tasks that would otherwise be tedious or time-consuming, allowing players to focus on the core enjoyment of gameplay.
Players can chat with an AI-powered character bot in-game—though some awkwardness remains for now, it’s clearly evolving into a truly innovative experience. Thumbnail image No.005 / Interview with developers of AAA MMORPG “Sword of Justice,” set to launch in Japan – featuring non-Pay-to-Win monetization and cutting-edge AI use [TGS2025]
4Gamer:
What are your update plans?
Mumu:
We release small updates monthly, seasonal updates every two months, major updates every four months, and one annual large-scale update. Most content comes directly from player feedback—we actively implement features that players request.
4Gamer:
Compared to the China version, the global release is delayed—how are you addressing this?
Mumu:
We won’t bring all existing content at once—it would be too overwhelming. Instead, we’ll roll out features in stages. However, proven successes from the Chinese version—such as standout tech innovations, excellent gameplay mechanics, and popular costumes—will be introduced early in the global release.
4Gamer:
Any message for Japanese players?
Mumu:
The closed beta test starts September 26. We’d love for you to play it and share your feedback. Even after TGS, we’ll continue releasing new updates and information regularly. We’re truly excited about our official global launch.