Netease Succeeded Where Infold Flopped | Love and Deepspace

NetEase’s Response to Backlash Over Where Winds Meet

In August, NetEase announced a global-exclusive skin for Where Winds Meet. Some Chinese players accused the company of favoring overseas players and treating domestic users like beta testers. Others argued that the game was neglecting its Chinese cultural roots in favor of an aesthetic aimed at global audiences. A second global-exclusive outfit announced in October drew similar criticism.

The presenter notes that Where Winds Meet has separate global and mainland Chinese servers with different update schedules, and that some global content is being released as the servers catch up. They also describe it as a combat game with wuxia elements, which they believe makes it less vulnerable to boycotts than a character-focused otome game. The backlash largely remained on Chinese platforms rather than spreading globally.

According to the presenter, NetEase did not publicly apologize and continued with its planned global releases. They interpret this as a deliberate choice, arguing that the company’s status as a Chinese cultural-export enterprise and the game’s commercial performance gave it room to withstand online criticism. The presenter also suggests NetEase learned from the first skin’s backlash: the October outfit was added to the game the day after it was announced, making it harder to withdraw.

Contrast With Infold’s Handling of the Valko Controversy

The presenter argues that Infold could have handled the Valko dispute differently, but instead capitulated after what they characterize as a politically framed smear campaign. They say Infold’s delay in acting gave critics time to intensify pressure, contributing to the boycott and a decline in revenue. They do not claim Valko’s return is certain, but maintain that it remains possible.

Xavier’s Birthday and the Boycott

The presenter says Xavier drew renewed attention because some players associated his birthday with the Valko controversy. They report that his birthday performed poorly by Love and Deepspace standards, praise Xavier fans who maintained the boycott, and say attempts to redirect backlash toward him did not gain traction.

Closing Message

The presenter celebrates the fan-created stories and art inspired by Valko, arguing that the community’s attachment to the character cannot be taken away, whether or not Infold brings him back.

Presenter and Contributors

The presenter is an unnamed narrator. No additional contributors are identifiable in the subtitles.