A new extended reality (XR) experience based on the Terracotta Warriors, titled "The Empire Code: Terracotta Warriors – Secrets of the First Emperor's Mausoleum," was unveiled on June 14 at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF).

Wang Yuan, general producer and chairwoman of Xi'an Hongwen Digital Technology Co., introduces "The Empire Code" at the opening of the XR section during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, June 14, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Xi'an Hongwen Digital Technology]

"The Empire Code," the first XR project officially authorized by Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum, draws on the famous Terracotta Warrior pits and other archaeological discoveries from the UNESCO World Heritage site in Xi'an, Shaanxi province. The interactive underground tomb experience is designed to set a new standard for presenting Chinese civilization in the digital age.

The project was unveiled at the launch of the festival's SIFF XR section. Wang Yuan, general producer and chairwoman of Xi'an Hongwen Digital Technology, a joint venture between Shaanxi Culture Industry Investment Group and HTC, said the team was not using technology to resurrect cultural relics, but to allow them to "open history's door through technology."

"Virtual reality serves as a radiant bridge across time, connecting ancient wisdom, eternal art and future imagination," she added.

A poster for "The Empire Code: Terracotta Warriors – Secrets of the First Emperor's Mausoleum." [Image courtesy of Xi'an Hongwen Digital Technology]

Along with a trailer and poster launched in Shanghai, audiences can preview a five-minute immersive experience during the festival. The full version is set to open this summer in Beijing and Xi'an.

The project will also be presented at the festival's International Film & TV Market, where organizers aim to showcase China's digital cultural solutions and technological expertise to a global audience.

"The Empire Code" brings together specialists in archaeology, filmmaking and virtual reality. Historical accuracy is overseen by Zhang Weixing, a researcher at Northwest University's Collaborative Research Center for Archaeology of the Silk Roads and former head of Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site excavation team. Acclaimed director Jin Tiemu crafts the narrative, while production designer Huo Tingxiao recreates authentic Qin dynasty visuals. The project also draws on technical expertise from HTC Vive Arts, which has partnered with more than 70 museums worldwide, and Wevr, known for its work in 3D and game development.

A man experiences a preview of "The Empire Code" during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival on June 14, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

The project uses XR technology such as 5K ultra-high-definition rendering, six degrees of freedom motion tracking and gesture controls to create an immersive experience aimed at minimizing motion sickness.

Producers say the cross-disciplinary effort combines cultural, artistic and technological elements, providing an interactive way to share China's history while maintaining cultural authenticity.

"The Empire Code" was announced alongside several upcoming projects at SIFF XR, including virtual reality adaptations of China's animated blockbuster "Chang An," Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and the historical VR film "Creation of the Gods Prequel: A Female General in Shang Dynasty's Golden Age."

Other highlights include the sci-fi VR experience "The Devourer," based on renowned writer Liu Cixin's short story in which players defend Earth from aliens, and the location-based mixed reality piece "A Tapestry of a Legendary Land," adapted from the popular dance drama that immerses audiences in Song dynasty artistry.

The opening of the XR section at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, June 14, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Xi'an Hongwen Digital Technology]

SIFF XR, a collaboration between the 27th SIFF and the Putuo Culture and Tourism Bureau, ran from June 14 to 16. The event showcased 16 domestic and international feature films, including several global and Asian premieres. 

Highlights included "Mnemosyne," inspired by the classical Chinese opera "The Peony Pavilion," and "Golog Unbounded," which explores the natural landscapes of Qinghai province. Attendees could also explore the anime universe of "Gundam" and experience narrative-driven works such as "Nana Lou" and "Jack & Flo."

By combining film, gaming, performance and tourism, SIFF XR offered immersive experiences that blurred the line between cinema and reality.