Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus (2003) Review

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus is a 3D fighting game developed by Studio Gigante and published by Ubisoft. It was released in arcades in 2003 and ported to the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube in 2004.

The game is set in a fictionalized version of modern-day China, where two rival martial arts sects, the White Lotus Society and the Black Dragon Clan, are engaged in a deadly struggle for possession of a powerful artifact known as the Dragon Scroll. Players take control of one of 12 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special abilities, and battle their way through a series of increasingly difficult opponents in order to reach the final boss and claim the Dragon Scroll for their sect.

Tao Feng is known for its brutal and unforgiving combat system, which features a wide variety of attacks, throws, and counters. The game also features a unique “damage system” that causes characters to sustain visible injuries as they take damage, such as cuts, bruises, and broken bones. These injuries can affect a character’s movement and fighting ability, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.

In addition to its innovative combat system, Tao Feng also features a number of other unique features, such as:

  • Interactive environments: The game’s levels are filled with interactive objects that can be used to attack opponents, such as chairs, tables, and even the walls themselves.
  • Chi attacks: Characters can build up their Chi energy to unleash devastating special attacks, such as fireballs, ice blasts, and lightning bolts.
  • Multiple endings: The game features multiple endings depending on which character the player chooses and the choices they make throughout the story mode.

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best fighting games of its generation. The game has been praised for its innovative combat system, realistic graphics, and engaging story mode.

Gameplay

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus is a 3D fighting game that features a wide variety of attacks, throws, and counters. The game’s combat system is designed to be both accessible to new players and deep enough to satisfy even the most experienced fighting game fans.

One of the most unique aspects of Tao Feng’s combat system is its “damage system.” As characters take damage, they will sustain visible injuries, such as cuts, bruises, and broken bones. These injuries can affect a character’s movement and fighting ability, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay. For example, a character with a broken leg will be slower and less agile, while a character with a broken arm will be unable to block or attack with that arm.

In addition to its standard attacks, characters can also build up their Chi energy to unleash devastating special attacks, such as fireballs, ice blasts, and lightning bolts. These special attacks can be used to turn the tide of battle in your favor, but they require careful timing and positioning to use effectively.

Tao Feng also features a number of interactive environments that can be used to attack opponents. For example, players can throw chairs and tables at opponents, or even smash them against walls to cause damage. Players can also use the environment to their advantage by jumping off walls or using objects to block attacks.

Characters

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus features a cast of 12 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special abilities. The characters are divided into two factions: the White Lotus Society and the Black Dragon Clan.

The White Lotus Society is a group of righteous warriors who are dedicated to protecting the innocent and upholding justice. The members of the White Lotus Society are skilled in a variety of martial arts styles, including kung fu, wushu, and tai chi.

The Black Dragon Clan is a group of ruthless criminals who are motivated by greed and power. The members of the Black Dragon Clan are skilled in a variety of martial arts styles, including karate, boxing, and muay thai.

Story Mode

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus features a story mode that follows the journey of one of the game’s 12 characters as they attempt to reach the final boss and claim the Dragon Scroll for their sect. The story mode is divided into a series of chapters, each of which takes place in a different location.

As the player progresses through the story mode, they will learn more about the characters and their motivations. The player will also encounter a variety of enemies, including members of the opposing sect, as well as neutral characters who may help or hinder the player’s progress.

The story mode in Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus is well-written and engaging, and it does a good job of introducing the characters and their motivations. The story mode also features a number of cutscenes that help to advance the plot and add to the game’s overall atmosphere.

Graphics

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus features realistic and detailed graphics that were cutting-edge for its time. The character models are well-animated and the environments are lush and detailed. The game also features a number of impressive special effects, such as particle effects and dynamic lighting.

Overall, the graphics in Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus are top-notch and help to create a truly immersive experience for the player.

Sound

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus features a soundtrack that is both atmospheric and exciting. The soundtrack is composed of a mix of traditional Chinese music and modern electronic music. The sound effects in the game are also top-notch and help to create a realistic and immersive experience for the player.

Overall

Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus is an excellent fighting game that features innovative combat, realistic graphics, and an engaging story mode. The game is accessible to new players but deep enough to satisfy even the most experienced fighting game fans. If you are a fan of fighting games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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