A groundbreaking micro-drama series launched this month takes viewers on an interactive journey through Shanxi Province’s cultural treasures. The Datong Code, released on March 20, 2026, follows Moroccan student Kailil’s unexpected adventure after completing the popular game Black Myth: Wukong.
Where History Meets Virtual Reality
The story begins at Peking University, where Kailil – portrayed by real-life language student Abdelquoddousse Kailil – travels to Datong only to be drawn into a mystical game world. His guide Yuwen, played by journalism student Hou Shuyue, introduces him to the rules: recover five elements hidden in the city’s intangible cultural heritage to return home.
Guardians of Tradition
The premiere episode features the Yungang Grottoes, a 1,500-year-old Buddhist cave complex recognized by UNESCO. Viewers witness Kailil’s first challenge involving traditional stone-carving techniques, with the grottoes’ iconic statues serving as both backdrop and puzzle components.
Educational Entertainment
Producers describe the series as "Indiana Jones meets Minecraft," combining problem-solving gameplay with documentary-style explanations of Datong’s paper-cutting, copperware craftsmanship, and other protected cultural practices. New episodes will release weekly through May 2026.
