Hello TWOC readers!

Forget Texas Hold’em, China’s financial elites are now “throwing eggs” at their business partners (not literally)—this and more China insights in our latest monthly newsletter. 

Read on to know more about:

• The challenges of adapting Liu Cixin’s epic Three-Body trilogy to the screen
• The cyberpunk artistry of Huang Heshan’s “Too Rich City,” a critique and celebration of urban life
• The rise of guandan, China’s new favorite card game, from its Jiangsu roots to a national craze

Three-Body Conundrum: Why Liu Cixin’s Trilogy Defies Adaptation

Liu Cixin’s Three-Body trilogy, known for its epic scale and intricate plot, presents significant challenges for adaptations. Despite efforts from fans and creators, capturing Liu’s sprawling narrative on screen has proven elusive, leaving fans eager but often disappointed. Read more

Too Rich: Wealth and Peril in Huang Heshan’s City Dreamscapes

Shifting from the realm of sci-fi to cyberpunk, artist Huang Heshan’s “Too Rich City” critiques and celebrates modern urban life. Through vibrant multimedia artworks and a popular Douyin presence, Huang weaves rich human connections with the looming dangers of modernization. His project invites us to ponder the true costs of progress in a rapidly changing world. Read more

Throwing Eggs: How “Guandan” Became China’s Favorite Card Game

Back in the real world, the regional card game guandan (literally “throwing eggs”) has surged in popularity, becoming a favorite social activity across China—even in business settings! Featured in the 2023 Lunar New Year Gala, guandan has spread from its Jiangsu roots to become a national craze. Read more

What We’re Playing

The Rewinder (Misty Mountain Studio)

Originally launched on Steam in September 2021 but newly available on Xbox Game Pass since April 30, The Rewinder is an evocative puzzle adventure game rooted in Chinese mythology. Players take the role of Yun, the last “Rewinder,” who can alter the past by interacting with spirits and entering memories. The game has an impressive 96 percent positive reviews on Steam, with players celebrating its blend of pixel art and ink painting aesthetics.

Chinese You Need

Ancient Chinese idioms, or chengyu, provide timeless insights—even into modern concepts like misinformation! “Three people make a tiger (三人成虎)” illustrates how repeated lies can become accepted truths. Discover more ancient chengyu useful in today’s world and up your Chinese game with our latest language column.

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