While decades of World War II video games have repeatedly visited Western fronts, European operations, and the Pacific theater, fewer titles have explored China's War of Resistance against the Japanese invasion. The Defiant aims to change that perspective. Developed by Hangzhou Hoothanes Entertainment, this upcoming story-driven singleplayer shooter shifts focus to the prolonged and devastating conflict through the eyes of multiple Chinese soldiers.

Quick Facts

  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
  • Developer: Hangzhou Hoothanes Entertainment
  • Genre: Story-driven singleplayer shooter with optional PvE co-op
  • Release Date: To be determined (in development since 2023)

Structure and Campaign Setting

The Defiant divides its narrative into four primary chapters spanning the Second Sino-Japanese War. Each chapter centers on a different protagonist, location, and gameplay style. One segment places players in the role of a Chinese spy navigating the neon-lit streets of Shanghai to gather intelligence on the Imperial Japanese Army using stealth and puzzle-solving mechanics. Another chapter tasks players with sabotaging rail lines via explosives to disrupt enemy supply lines.

While the characters are fictional, the battles draw from real historical encounters across settings reconstructed through extensive developer research. Hands-on previews describe intense combat-heavy scenarios, such as defending snowy mountain trenches in China's northeast region using period-accurate firearms like the Liao Type 13 bolt-action rifle.

Weapons, Combat, and Mechanics

The arsenal spans era-accurate rifles, pistols, heavy machine guns, and melee options like a broadsword. Weapons feature distinct reload animations and audio design. Rather than relying on traditional medkits or bandages, the game communicates player health through blood splatters and screen vignetting.

Preview sessions also highlighted areas slated for improvement. Current mobility limitations include the ability to run and slide into cover, but a lack of jumping, vaulting, or a prone stance. Developers noted that these mechanics, along with artificial intelligence behaviors and HUD direction indicators, are actively being addressed based on player feedback.

Singleplayer Campaign and Co-Op

Moving away from the multiplayer-centric structures common in modern military shooters, Hangzhou Hoothanes Entertainment is targeting a substantial 15-hour singleplayer campaign designed to harken back to classic story-driven shooters.

Alongside the solo campaign, the developers confirmed an optional PvE co-op mode for four to eight players. This separate mode utilizes maps and missions derived from the main campaign, functioning as an entertaining side mode rather than a core requirement.

The Defiant has been in development since 2023 and does not yet have a confirmed release date. Based on recent previews, the project remains in active iteration as the team refines its gameplay systems.