This review may contain spoilers
Funny, fresh and entertaining
This was one series I could not stop watching! It was funny, creative, and best of all—Dylan Wang was the star of the show!Ever since Devil and Fairy, Dylan has continuously impressed me with his acting. This series felt more lighthearted and super entertaining with minimal love line, which I do not mind!!! The summary posted by MDL is pretty accurate, so I am not going to mention what it's about.
Things I loved about the series:
• The side characters – This is what I love about wuxia! You meet so many characters and you end up falling in love with some of them along the way. I was screaming and shouting when the Bronze Brothers were back together with Brother Yang!!!
• The slapstick comedy – The humor in this show is amazing, and Dylan nailed his character so well! It felt so natural that I honestly think this is just how he is in real life.
• The family relationships and the teams he forms – By the end, you just know he’s a beloved guy. Everyone felt he was worth saving, even turning a blind eye to what he took to carry out the righteous “revenge” for Mr. Zheng
Why I knocked off a few stars:
• The build-up was a bit slow for me. It also took me a while to get used to the idea that he was from a different timeline and universe. But once I said "Screw it, let’s just enjoy the show for what it is without judgment" I started loving it even more. I highly recommend keeping an open mind—don’t try to make it make sense, just enjoy it!
• The ending!! I was screaming, not even realizing I had reached the last episode. It was that good… but it ended on a note I did not expect. I demand a Season 2 or a super long movie to conclude a happy ending!!!
Overall, I highly recommend watching it if you’re a big fan of Dylan and enjoy wuxia. There are some sad parts, but you’ll find yourself laughing, shouting in joy, and feeling like you’re on the same journey as the cast.
8/10
Rewatch value: 8/10
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I can't wait for Season 2
I give like to this drama, all characters play so good, the one who catch my attention is the one who no show face until end. Still have some superhero character not showing up. Can't wait. Hope S2 soonest coming. Want to know romance blossom with princess. Sister princess only act behind the story but not talk much about her. Hope writer and director can put more effort to make storyline add-on fantasy and adventure. Better technology bring to the Dafeng.Was this review helpful to you?
Great show with promising storyline
This is the second show i saw with Dylan Wang, the first had been Evernight, which he didnt disappoint. Despite the criticism that I read for his role in Evernight, i thought he did a good job in accordance to the novel.The show is about ML who got immersed in a game that he was playing with his friends in modern time. When he started playing, he went right into the game, playing the ML Xu Qi An, a somewhat low rank policeman in Dafeng. He rose through the rank and martial skills as he met with numerous significant people along the way, captivating them with his poetry, investigative skill and no nonsense persona.
I must say this ML is quite a character. I especially love his handphone-like gadget (complete with earbud 😂) when he got involved in the heavenly-something guild. I particularly love the relationship he had with his family, which didnt sound good before but improved after he got into the game. Love how they built his working relationships too, progressing from hateful superiors to loyal ones who would jump in to save him in a blink of an eye.
I didnt really want to mention FL much cuz i thought that her character was absolutely unnecessary. Had she not have that relationship with Princess Pingyang, which provided somewhat backstory information for ML’s investigation, she really doesnt function at all. The romance is totally negligible and unnecessary cuz this show is more to investigative/martial/comedy type. I feel squat spark between them, nada,zero. Honestly speaking, i thought ML has so much stronger chemistry with Cai Wei and consort of Zhenbei, even Princess Huaiqing! Whenever ML and FL got on screen, all i see is sibling vibe rather than a couple. And because FL’s character is so damn annoying in the earlier episodes, i ended up fast forwarding her scenes later on. Although this character progressed for the better towards the end after she discovered the true fate of her best friend Princess Pingyang, i still fastforward all scenes with her especially the romantic ones.
Other supporting characters are all great. All costumes are so nice, the uniforms/armours are smart and cool, and the female costumes are apt and not too flamboyant.
What did i dislike about this show? Well some of the comedic scenes are just over the top and extra. The final showdown was too short and i believe since they plan for season 2 (based on the post credit scene), the cliffhanger is somewhat a downer.
Although this show come close to Joy of Life vibe, it still falls short of it. Still a good show though, and i especially love ML’s powers and upgrades here. Overall it’s an enjoyable show and i hope season 2 wont take 4-5 years like JoL 😭 anyway, im off to read the novel since the series provided no proper ending.
Edit: ive just reached the arc where Xu Qi An beheaded the traitors Que and Cao in the novel, and as expected, novel Xu Qi An isnt as stupid as the series Xu Qi An who easily got duped by the second princess posing as Imperial Princess. Thats the one flaw of the series that doesnt compute with Xu Qi An’s intelligence. It’s impossible that he cannot deduce that Second Princess was an impostor with that many tell-tales shown. Even before reading the novel, I’ve felt that production somehow dumbed down Xu Qi An with that Second Princess. Glad i dont have to read so much of Second Princess in the novel. They shouldnt have changed this character and made her the FL. What a pointless character. Btw I liked the book’s version better than the adaptation cuz there was no memory erasing of Xu Qi An on the population at all. Everyone remembered him as a hero and the despicable Emperor was forced by his ministers to issue self reproach which exonerates Official Zheng and Xu Qi An of any wrongdoing. Wow what a satisfaction to read that part in the novel. I wonder why didnt the show follow the same line. Why make everyone forget XQA? Just for the sake of cliffhanger?
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Hilarious and worth it!
I loved it!Dylan was amazing in this drama. The romance is background but you actually don't care. The story is captivating, with plenty of hilarious moments.
I loved the ML's journey to becoming strong while staying so unserious.
Waiting for the second season!!
Don't hesitate to watch it. You won't regret it!
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A thrilling blend of fantasy and humor
Guardians of the Dafeng is a captivating mix of fantasy, mystery and humor, Dylan Wang shines as Xu Qi'an, a modern-day investigator transported to a magical world filled with demons and intrigue.His blend of wit and determination brings the character to life making every case-solving moment engaging. Tian Xiwei as Princess Lin'an adds depth and charm, creating a dynamic duo that elevates the series. The chemistry between them feels natural and their interactions are both heartwarming and entertaining.
The show's production quality is top-notch with stunning visuals that bring the Dafeng Dynasty to life. The blend of traditional and supernatural elements creates a rich, immersive world.
The pacing is well-balanced, with each episode unveiling new mysteries and character developments. While some may find certain plot points predictable, the overall execution and character arcs more than make up for it. I enjoyed the drama from start to finish, and I will definitely rewatch it again.
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A great drama with a low ending
So i just finished Guardians of the Dafeng and i dont know what to thing honestly.I very enjoyed this drama despite some slow pacing in the plot, the production is very good and it's probably one the best Dylan Wang drama. That said, I feel that Tian Xi Wei's screen time isn't substantial enough. Even though this isn't a drama where romance takes center stage, the character she portrays is very interesting and could have been explored much more.
I didnt liked the ending, its the second drama in one week with a false ending and a "to be continued" and it's boring me, the ending itself is too fast, lack of details and it's too rushed.
Overall it's a great drama is you want something like Joy of Life in term of humor, it's a great action/fantasy drama too.
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I loved the first half but then the second half kinda dragged on…
I really loved the first half. It was really funny! It was light hearted! It was filled and adventure and comaderie. I liked all the comedy relief the dynamic of the characters brings! Thennnn I felt like they made his character too powerful that it peaked and couldnt help him properly develop. I was having trouble getting into watching the end, but that’s just me….so I stopped at 35/40 (tho more honestly lost my attention at 31/40).I put the rewatch as 5 because it’s a neutral answer maybe in the future I hope to pick it up again with a fresher perspective.
Am I the only one that shipped Caiwei and Xu Qi-An LOL
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A Breath of Fresh Air — Guardians of Dafeng Is the Genre Revolution C-Drama Needed
I’ve watched Chinese dramas for nearly a decade, and Guardians of Dafeng is the first time I’ve seen a single series combine so many genres so seamlessly — time travel, historical fantasy, mystery investigation, intelligence, emotional and psychological maturity, romance, and comedy — all in one.While many recent Chinese dramas tend to stay within one or two genres, this show dares to do everything — and succeeds. It’s fresh, intelligent, and deeply human. Every episode carries suspense, depth, and a sense of wonder.
Dylan Wang’s portrayal of Xu Qi’an is outstanding. He doesn’t just act; he embodies the character. Watching him evolve through the story — intellectually, emotionally, and psychologically — feels natural and real. That’s the essence of character development, and this drama gets it exactly right.
What I appreciate most is that Guardians of Dafeng doesn’t rely on trends or star power. It’s built on strong storytelling and meaningful growth. Even the minor flaws add charm instead of taking away from the experience.
I’ve noticed some dramas with higher ratings rely heavily on marketing, popularity, or visuals but lack genuine suspense or emotion. Guardians of Dafeng stands out precisely because it stays true to the unique soul of Chinese storytelling — thoughtful pacing, moral depth, and emotional authenticity.
⭐ 10/10 — A masterpiece that blends every element of drama into something rare, intelligent, and unforgettable.
#GuardiansOfDafeng #DylanWang #CDramaReview #ChineseDrama #FantasyMystery #XuQi'an #CDramaFans
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Overall, definitely worth it to watch and rewatch. Will never get bored watching this over and over again (except for the last episodes, too traumatized of the angst >,<)
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A must watch
I think this is Dylan Wang’s best work. The acting from main and supporting cast is exceptional, the writing was tight and thrilling, the comedy was hilarious - there were times we had to pause the TV to stop laughing because we couldn’t read the subtitles. I cannot WAIT for season two - please have the same cast and HURRY!!!!Was this review helpful to you?
Guardians of the Dafeng is humorous and yet meaningful drama that made the beginning of my 2025
Watching this was such an interesting and compelling journey. I like Dylan's works in the past, so I've decided to check this one too. What I didn't expect that I would love it as much as I did.Guardians of the Dafeng is one of those dramas where you have to watch carefully since the beginning in order to truly appreciate it. The story delivers and connects with characters in humorous way, which I enjoyed. I find that may be because of contrast between funny moments I was able to appreciate serious and dramatic moments.
Guardians of the Dafeng crafts characters beautifully. I love how every part of cast and supporting character is given the stage to shine. Xu Qi An and his life as a protagonist represents what normal person life should be, with importance towards family, friends, love partner and colleagues. I find this very refreshing.
I love Xu Qi An's righteousness. He is not perfect and definitely has flaws but consistency in building his character as someone who will stand for the weaker ones is admiring. I connected with him instantly, I love his quirkiness, sarcasm and positive attitude towards life. Dylan did an amazing job portraying Xu Qi An.
I loved romance storyline, though it was not central, Xu Qi An and Lin An were beautiful.
Overall, this is a great drama with great visuals, great OST, great CGI, great cast and great story. I can't wait to see Season 2.
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This review may contain spoilers
There are things that are more important than life
Breath of fresh air in Chinese dramaland. What starts with epic humor is able to deliver serious thought provoking themes in the end.What makes one a decent person? Is ordinary and mediocre life is considered a meaningless one? Should we stand up for weak ones or conform? Is it better to take things slowly or act rashly? There are no simple answers but Guardians of the Dafeng tried to provide some insights.
I am writing this as I have ended watching this, so emotions are very fresh. I cried so hard at the last episodes, and it solidified its brilliance to me. The fact that we were presented with light-hearted comedy as a way to portray and present characters is making it even more painful.
I want Season 2 so badly. Music, acting, production, script - everything was great about this drama.
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