The Psychology of Escapism: 'Slaying Dragons' and Other Fantasy Narratives in Chinese Cyberspace

In the bustling digital realm of Chinese cyberspace, a quiet revolution is unfolding—one where millions log in not just to scroll, but to escape. From epic fantasy novels to immersive gaming worlds, the act of 'slaying dragons' has become more than metaphor. It's a psychological sanctuary for a generation navigating intense academic pressure, urban isolation, and societal expectations.

Take Qidian.com, China’s largest online fiction platform. Over 7 million authors have published works there, with fantasy and xianxia (cultivation fantasy) genres dominating over 60% of total readership. Why? Because who wouldn’t want to be an underdog cultivator rising through mystical realms instead of another cog in the 996 work machine?

But this isn’t mere entertainment—it’s coping. A 2023 Peking University study found that 68% of young adults in tier-1 cities engage daily with fantasy content, citing stress relief and identity exploration as top motivations.

Why Fantasy? The Mind Behind the Escape

Psychologists call it compensatory fantasy—a mental retreat where users regain control, power, and meaning often missing in real life. In games like Tianya Xingchen or novels like Perfect World, characters rise from nothing to godhood through perseverance—a narrative deeply resonant in a meritocratic society.

Consider this: in reality, climbing China’s social ladder can feel impossible. But online? Level up, master a skill, defeat a dragon. Instant gratification with tangible progress.

User Engagement by Platform (2023)

Notice a trend? The deeper the immersion, the longer people stay. Bilibili’s anime fans don’t just watch—they participate, comment in real-time, build communities. It’s not passive viewing; it’s belonging.

The Flip Side: When Escapism Turns Toxic

Not all escapes are healthy. The National Health Commission reported a 27% increase in internet addiction cases among teens (2021–2023), many linked to fantasy-driven platforms. Some players spend 8+ hours daily, blurring lines between self and avatar.

Yet outright condemnation misses the point. As Dr. Li Wen from Fudan University notes: 'For many, these worlds aren’t about avoiding life—but rehearsing it.' In virtual clans, users learn leadership, teamwork, even emotional resilience.

The Future: Escapism with Purpose

Forward-thinking platforms are blending fantasy with real-world skills. Tencent’s Honor of Kings now includes historical lore mini-courses. Qidian partners with universities to turn top novels into creative writing credits.

The message? Don’t shame the dragon slayers. Help them bring their courage back to reality.