Compared to its launch period, the popularity of Divide has declined.
This is partly because Divide doesn't offer much replayability. Unlike Dark Souls, which features a variety of strategies and subtle level designs, the fun in Divide mainly stems from experiencing its content for the first time. Once players have explored its level designs and experimented with prop combinations, the novelty wears off. Aside from playing with different partners, it's hard for the game itself to bring fresh experiences to players who have already completed it.
Additionally, the game's release coincided with announcements from various game developers about exciting upcoming projects. Several domestic agencies also introduced excellent overseas games last year, further diverting players' attention.
Despite this, an exclusive interview report by Game Time and Space managed to rekindle interest. The article highlighted key points of the game's development and showcased insights from Chen Xu. Notably, it preserved Chen Xu's heartfelt statement:
"Every game is pregnant with my love for players. I have always been committed to creating games that can warm their hearts."
The interview was translated into English and shared on overseas platforms, generating significant buzz. During this period, Target Software also released small games from Neon Games internationally, building momentum for Chen Xu's work.
The overseas success of Dark Souls continued to resonate, and Chen Xu's interview attracted widespread attention. Players in forums and communities praised his dedication. Comments included:
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"I have to say, I'm already looking forward to this designer's new work!"
"Yes, only someone who truly loves players could create such a game!"
"I heard Target Software is working on bringing Chen Xu's earlier classics to the international market. I can't wait!"
"I saw some YouTube videos about the new game. It's a cooperative game with a sunny vibe. I'm excited about another heart-warming experience!"
"More importantly, the article mentions a possible sequel to Dark Souls?"
"Really? That's amazing!"
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Chen Xu's devotion to crafting meaningful, heartfelt games has clearly left a lasting impression, both at home and abroad.
Overseas players are eagerly anticipating the game, but domestic players seem to have a different attitude.
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"Although Divide is indeed warm and full of sunshine, I still find it hard to trust Chen Xu's words!"
"It sounds reasonable, but why do I always feel like Chen Xu is pulling a fast one?"
"Agreed. For now, I'll give the love for players part the benefit of the doubt, but those heart-warming lines... I'll take them with a grain of salt!"
"Whether Chen Xu is the 'warrior of love' or not doesn't matter. The real question is whether I should buy this game."
"Don't fall for Chen Xu's smooth talk about love and warmth. Just laugh it off. The key takeaway here is the rumoured sequel to Dark Souls! Isn't that what matters?"
"Exactly! This is the real core point of discussion!"
"So, does this mean the story of Dark Souls will finally be completed this time?"
"Haha, I can't wait to see the reactions of the lore enthusiasts and theorists. Who will win, and who will miss the mark?"
"Right! At least the endless debates between theorists will have some resolution."
"But why do I feel like it's not going to be that simple? The prequel might stick to a fragmented narrative style too!"
"Enough about the plot! What truly matters is the difficulty level! Didn't Chen Xu say this would be a brand-new, crazy adventure? And there's supposed to be a bigger surprise. Sounds like a challenge!"
"Challenge? Bring it on! After being crushed so many times, I've built up my mental fortitude. I'm ready to dive in again. Honestly, I can't wait!"
"Man, I've heard about the infamous eighth week. I've only made it to the third. Let's not even go there!"
"Nothing beats that moment when a boss, decked out in Javier armour, turned me into mincemeat like I was nothing!"
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With this interview published in Game Time and Space, the players' excitement reached a fever pitch.
Some genuinely believe in the warmth Chen Xu keeps emphasizing. However, many veteran players, long-time fans of Neon Games, remain sceptical.
For most players, though, the focus isn't whether Chen Xu is truly a warrior of love. What really matters is the news about the Dark Souls prequel mentioned in the article.
For devoted Dark Souls fans, who have been yearning for updates on a sequel, this was the highlight they've been waiting for.
Many players regularly tag Chen Xu's official blog, hoping for a reply. Whether they get one or not doesn't matter—they just want to express their excitement.
Now, the long-awaited news about the new game is finally here!
Worried about the difficulty? Not at all. Compared to when Dark Souls first launched, the gameplay has been fully explored, and countless high-level players have emerged.
Uninjured boss fights and quick kills are now routine. Online, there are videos showcasing unexpected outcomes in random modes, clever gameplay tricks, deep dives into the storyline, and hardcore challenges like world speed runs and boss-kill records.
Players have grown confident. They're no longer the clueless newcomers they once were. The fear isn't that the game will be too difficult—it's that it won't be challenging enough.
When the time comes, players are determined to prove themselves as excellent fire passers, showing they're up to any challenge.
In response to this wave of enthusiasm, Chen Xu didn't remain silent. Instead, he logged into his official blog and posted a simple but evocative update accompanied by an image of a bonfire.
His post read:
"The sequel to Dark Souls will be revealed at the gameplay exhibition. The new instalment is set in the distant Age of Fire and will expand on the story's background. One thing remains unchanged: it will take players on an unforgettable journey of fire spreading."
The announcement sent fans into a frenzy. Within ten minutes, thousands of replies flooded the blog.
Scrolling through the comments, it was clear how eager everyone was. Emoji packs featuring captions like [this fire can't be passed on] dominated the replies.
Despite the playful banter, the excitement is undeniable. After all, one thing is certain—suffering, has become an irresistible addiction.