NetEase Games has revealed its first-ever AAA single-player title, Blood Message.
Developed by 24 Entertainment’s Lin’an Studio, this cinematic, story-driven action-adventure is set in ancient China and promises to blend brutal survival combat with profound Eastern storytelling.
The game is currently in development for PC and consoles.
Revealed with a breathtaking new trailer powered by Unreal Engine 5, Blood Message signals a major new direction for the global gaming giant, focusing on an epic, blockbuster single-player experience for a worldwide audience.
An Ode to Unsung Heroes
While many historical epics focus on emperors and generals, Blood Message tells the story of ordinary people driven by extraordinary resolve. The game invites players to step into the shoes of a nameless messenger and his young son during a righteous uprising in the ancient city of Dunhuang.
Caught in the crossfire and torn between duty to their country and love for their family, this father-and-son duo must embark on a perilous journey that will test their loyalty and will to survive. It is a tale of the forgotten, an ode to the unsung heroes whose actions, though smaller than dust, can leave an eternal mark on history.
A Perilous Journey Through Ancient China
Set during the final, turbulent years of the Tang Dynasty, your mission is to traverse a treacherous 3,000-li (around 1,000-mile) odyssey back to Chang’an, the heart of the Tang Empire. You carry a message that holds the fate of your war-torn homeland.
Your journey will take you across the lethal landscapes of East and Central Asia, from desolate deserts to vast wildernesses. You will need to survive brutal sieges, unforgiving terrain, and overwhelming odds using a blend of visceral, realistic combat and clever stealth mechanics. The setting provides a rich and authentic cultural landmark of Chinese history, framing the story with the customs and culture of the era.
Key Features
- A Cinematic Odyssey – Blood Message is built on a foundation of deep narrative gameplay and cutting-edge technology.
- Cinematic Storytelling – The game is, first and foremost, a narrative-driven experience. The entire adventure is anchored in cinematic storytelling, designed to immerse players in its deeply emotional journey.
- Visceral Combat & Survival – To survive the long road to Chang’an, players will engage in realistic combat that blends brutal, up-close encounters with tactical stealth.
- An Emotional Journey – At its heart, this is a story exploring powerful themes of family, honour, sacrifice, and cultural identity in a world on the brink of collapse.
- Expansive, Authentic Landscapes – The world is inspired by the diverse and stunning terrains of East and Central Asia, bringing locations like the ancient city of Dunhuang to life with incredible detail.
A New Era for NetEase Games
For two decades, NetEase Games has been a leader in the online gaming space. Blood Message represents a significant new chapter for the company.
“We are ushering players a new generation of high adventure with Blood Message,” said Zhipeng Hu, Lead Producer and NetEase Executive Vice President, “As our first completely single-player focused experience from NetEase Games, after two decades of deep dedication to the gaming industry, we are prepared to deliver a truly epic and cinematic experience for players around the world.”
History may forget their names, but their story will be told. Blood Message is shaping up to be a powerful and unforgettable adventure, and we look forward to hearing more about its journey to PC and consoles. Fingers are crossed that ‘consoles’ includes that of the Xbox variety.
Wherever you play, check out the trailer…
