A new Taiwan board game “2045” is set to release in January 2025, immersing players in a fictional Chinese invasion of Taiwan, set 20 years into the future. The game, developed by Taiwanese board game maker Mizo Games, invites participants to engage in strategic thinking, navigating complex military and political situations.
As tensions in the region continue to escalate, particularly with China’s increased military presence near Taiwan, this game offers a unique way to reflect on the potential consequences of such a conflict.
Players will take on various roles, from military personnel to citizens defending their homeland, providing a detailed look into the challenges faced by Taiwan. This innovative approach blends gaming with education, making it a timely exploration of Taiwan’s geopolitical challenges.
A Game Reflecting Geopolitical Tensions
The geopolitical relationship between Taiwan and China has been fraught for decades. China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control.
Taiwan, however, asserts its sovereignty and continues to strengthen its defenses. These tensions have been mirrored in real-world developments, including China’s increased military maneuvers around Taiwan.
Against this backdrop, Mizo Games, a Taiwanese board game maker, has developed “2045,” a strategic board game that places players in the heart of a fictional conflict.
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Set 20 years into the future, the game simulates the tense days leading up to a Chinese invasion. Players assume various roles, from Taiwan’s military personnel and ordinary citizens defending their homeland to Chinese sleeper agents and pro-China politicians working to destabilize the island’s defenses.
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“2045” invites players to engage in critical decision-making through colorful action cards and character role-playing, bringing a sense of urgency and realism to the gaming experience. Chang Shao Lian, the founder of Mizo Games, has said the game aims to make players think deeply about strategy and what it takes to “win” in a high-stakes scenario.
From Crowdfunding to International Release
Mizo Games began crowdfunding for “2045” in August 2024, and the response was overwhelming. Within just two-and-a-half months, the campaign raised over T$4 million (approximately $121,966), underscoring significant interest in Taiwan and beyond.
The game’s success reflects not only its innovative gameplay but also the growing global attention to Taiwan’s strategic position in the Western Pacific.
The game is slated for release in January 2025 and will also be available in the United States and Europe later in the year. This broader release is likely to resonate with international audiences, offering them a glimpse into Taiwan’s challenges while fostering a deeper understanding of its geopolitical situation.
Mizo Games’ prior works include two other board games focused on Taiwan’s history and conflicts. One game explores surviving air raids in Taipei, while another delves into the bombing of Kaohsiung during Japan’s colonization of Taiwan between 1895 and 1945. These titles demonstrate Mizo’s commitment to creating games that educate and provoke thought while engaging players.
A New Way to Learn and Prepare
“2045” comes at a time when Taiwan is increasingly preparing for the possibility of conflict with China. Just last week, Taiwan’s presidential office conducted its first “tabletop” exercise involving multiple government agencies.
The simulation tested the island’s readiness in scenarios where conflict seemed imminent, providing valuable insights into both governmental and civil society responses.
The parallels between such exercises and the gameplay in “2045” are striking. Participants in the game face dilemmas and challenges similar to those tackled in official simulations.
For instance, players must anticipate military movements, identify potential landing zones, and strategize countermeasures. This makes the game more than just entertainment—it becomes a tool for understanding complex geopolitical and military dynamics.
Players who tested “2045” have highlighted its educational value. Kalin Lai, a 23-year-old participant, noted that the game helped her understand potential military strategies, such as where an invasion might occur and how it could unfold. Such insights could prove invaluable in fostering awareness and preparedness among Taiwan’s population and beyond.
Bridging Entertainment and Awareness
“2045” represents a novel approach to addressing serious topics like national security and geopolitical tension. By immersing players in a fictionalized conflict scenario, the game bridges the gap between entertainment and education.
It encourages players to think critically about the stakes and consequences of war while fostering empathy for those directly affected by such conflicts.
As the game prepares for its release, it raises intriguing questions: How can games like “2045” contribute to public awareness of national security issues? Can they foster greater international understanding of Taiwan’s position? And could they serve as unofficial tools for civic education and preparation?
Mizo Games has demonstrated that board games can do more than entertain—they can also spark meaningful conversations about history, identity, and the future. With “2045,” they offer a unique lens through which players can explore one of the most pressing geopolitical issues of our time.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏