XAOC stands out as a massively multiplayer RPG that draws from diverse Eastern mythologies, creating a unique blend of Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Thai, and Ryukyuan influences in its storytelling and world-building. Set in a world ravaged by a catastrophic event known as the "Heavenly Law Disaster," the game blurs the lines between gods, ghosts, and humans, pushing players to seek redemption and survival through the concept of "Law." This PC title emphasizes exploration and philosophical undertones over constant combat, incorporating elements like exorcising defeated monsters to experience a sense of unity with all things.
Gameplay
In XAOC, players choose from two major factions, 參番 and 穢犬, and select one of four races: 東道域, 漠奔族, 秧犬族, or 草奉族. Character creation includes five body types, such as robust male or loli, and one of seven professions, each with three switchable weapons. Professions include 百刃侍 for swift blade techniques, 斂罡斥 for powerful martial arts strikes, and 弁天御 for light and dark manipulations. Combat revolves around a combo system using "attack," "speed," and "break" chains to build effective assaults.
Beyond fighting, the game integrates cultural systems like hot springs for relaxation, temple worship, tea ceremonies, sky lantern releases, demon taming, and underworld viewing. Players enhance gear through the "兵識" system, specialize talents, and use a collection cabinet to boost abilities by adding items. Refinement skills cover tailoring, blacksmithing, crafting, and alchemy, while the furnace allows for recipe-based upgrades and evolutions.
Game Modes
XAOC offers a mix of solo and group activities, starting with rich story missions that include main quests, side tasks, regional explorations, daily challenges, and more. Players venture into the world map to tackle bosses and explore dozens of caves. Instanced content features over ten types of dungeons for stories, missions, and events, available in simple, normal, hard, and extreme difficulties.
For multiplayer engagement, the guild system enables territorial conquest battles and siege wars. Competitive players join arena PvP for direct confrontations. These modes encourage cooperation and rivalry, fitting the massively multiplayer framework where alliances and conflicts shape the experience.
Unique Mechanics and Systems
The game's 締角 system involves six elements and eight attributes, allowing players to bind seals with affinity and opposition dynamics for strategic depth. Demon pets, or 役妖, can be fostered and deployed in battles, adding a layer of companionship and utility. Achievements tie into both in-game and platform systems, rewarding thorough play.
Is It Worth Playing?
With a mostly positive reception from players, XAOC holds a 71% approval rating based on 171 reviews[[1]](https://store.steampowered.com/app/614860). The game remains in early access, with weekly maintenance suggesting ongoing server support despite no updates in over eight years[[1]](https://store.steampowered.com/app/614860). If you enjoy MMORPGs with deep Eastern lore, philosophical themes, and non-traditional mechanics like exorcism and cultural rituals, this title offers a distinctive experience. However, its unlisted status on stores and partial English localization might limit accessibility for some. Those seeking active development or modern graphics could look elsewhere, but dedicated fans of niche RPGs might find value in its intricate world and systems.
