Game Literature: Social Thoughts and the Birth of Children's Game

How Social Trends Shaped a Popular Children’s Game

Have you ever played a game that was more than just fun? A game that showed what people were feeling or hoping for? Today, we’re exploring “Peaceful War”(or "Peace Under Heaven"), a cool paper-and-pencil game that was a big hit in Hong Kong and Guangdong during the 80s and 90s. Let’s dive into its story!

What Is "Peace Under Heaven"?

Imagine a game where you build fortresses and attack your friends—all with just paper, a pencil, and rock-paper-scissors! That’s "Peace Under Heaven," also called "Planes and Cannons." Two or more players take turns playing rock-paper-scissors. If you win, you get to build something on your grid or destroy something on your friend’s. It’s a mix of strategy, luck, and a little bit of mischief!

Here’s how it works:

1. Grab some paper, a pencil, and an eraser. Draw a grid—this is your fortress.

2. Play rock-paper-scissors with your friend.

3. If you win, you can add to your grid or attack theirs.

You start by writing "Peace Under Heaven" on your grid. Then, you add flags (usually three), build shields (up to five layers), and finally add cannons or planes to attack. If your friend wins a round, they can attack you back or fix their damaged fortress. The goal? Destroy your opponent’s flags, shields, and fortress before they destroy yours!

Why Was It So Popular?

Back in the 80s and 90s, kids in Hong Kong loved this game. They’d play it during school breaks or after school. Some sneaky players even played in class, hiding from the teacher! Sound familiar? What games do you and your friends play during breaks?

A Name With a Big Meaning

"Peace Under Heaven" isn’t just a fun title—it means something special. In Chinese, it stands for a world where everything is peaceful and stable. During the 80s and 90s, Hong Kong’s future was uncertain, and the world felt shaky with big political changes. This simple game was like a wish kids made while they played—a hope for a calm, happy world.

How to Play: Step by Step

Ready to try it? Here’s a quick guide:

- Step 1: Draw a grid on your paper. This is your base.

- Step 2: Write "Peace Under Heaven" in your grid to start.

- Step 3: Play rock-paper-scissors. If you win, add a flag (you get up to three).

- Step 4: Win again? Add shields (up to five layers) to protect your base.

- Step 5: Keep winning to add cannons or planes. Use them to attack your friend’s grid!

- Step 6: If you get attacked, win a round to fix your stuff or fight back.

The game ends when one player’s fortress is totally wiped out. Who will win—you or your friend?

Games Tell Stories

"Peace Under Heaven" shows how games can be more than just playtime. They can reflect what’s happening in the world—like a secret message from the past. Next time you play a game, think about it: What might your favorite games say about today? Maybe the games you love will tell future kids about our time!

 

 

Are you interested to play this game?

Discount Code: peacefulwar