China

Lore & Background

China is one of several 'movie set' worlds that compose the universe of Viewtiful Joe, where each stage is a distinct film genre brought to life. In Viewtiful Joe 2, the stage is presented as a lost ancient temple complex, complete with pagodas, bamboo forests, and treacherous mountain paths. It is heavily inspired by classic Hong Kong martial arts cinema, with exaggerated physics and dramatic camera angles that mimic the style of directors like John Woo and Zhang Yimou. The set itself feels lived-in: banners flutter with the ghost of a breeze, incense smoke curls from cracked urns, and the ground is littered with spent shell casings and shattered pottery—leftovers from a thousand unseen takes.

Reader's Guide

China is the first major stage in Viewtiful Joe 2, serving as a tutorial of sorts for new mechanics introduced in the sequel. It is a linear, side-scrolling level divided into several sections: a bamboo forest, a temple interior, and a mountain pass. Players must use Joe's VFX powers—Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom—to overcome environmental hazards and defeat enemies. The stage culminates in a boss fight against Captain Blue Jr., who uses a giant mech-like suit. The level is notable for its high density of breakable objects and hidden V-Points, rewarding exploration. It sets the tone for the game's blend of action, humor, and cinematic flair.

Did You Know?

• The stage's bamboo forest section features a hidden path that leads to a bonus room with extra V-Points.
• The design of the temple interior is directly inspired by the set of the 1993 film The Bride with White Hair.
• Enemies in this stage include 'Kung Fu Masters' who can counterattack if Joe uses the same VFX power twice in a row.