Inside a studio's sonic imagination

Zhai's unique approach fuses traditional Chinese music with contemporary composition techniques — a style deeply influenced by his education at the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts, a leading institution in opera and traditional performance. While his work often reflects modern trends, the rhythms and emotional depth he gleaned from Chinese opera, such as Peking Opera and Kunqu Opera, continue to shape his musical language.

"There's something raw and emotionally intense in traditional Chinese music," says Zhai, who began piano lessons in his hometown of Shangqiu, Henan province. "That's what helps me compose scores that don't just support a film — they become part of its soul."

Now, 8082 Audio Studio, a cutting-edge audio production company based in Beijing, plays a leading role in the evolution of Chinese original music, particularly in the booming video game industry.

Often seen as modern entertainment, video games are now powerful tools for cultural expression and exchange. In the digital age, they serve not only as global storytelling platforms but also shape narratives and values across cultures.

"For young people, games are a way to engage with and absorb foreign cultures — language, history, art, social norms — all while having fun," says Tong Zhuxin, a voice actress and dubbing director at 8082 Audio Studio.

Tong, who has worked as a dubbing director for the global hit action role-playing game Black Myth: Wukong, based on the legendary Journey to the West, sees the deep impact video games have on modern cultural trends. Players step into the shoes of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, as they embark on a mythic journey westward, exploring themes from the classic novel in a new, interactive form.