Cultivation Is Like This

• Author: Feng Chao Huang
• Genres: Xianxia, Hài Hước
• Status: Completed
• Chapters: 1024
• Rating: ★ 4.5 / 5
• Published: 2026-09-22

First Impressions

I am Mai Chi. After reading Cultivation Is Like This, my first impression was that this isn't just your typical xianxia novel solely focused on a protagonist's grind to become the ultimate powerhouse. The novel constructs the world of the Nine Provinces, where cultivators, sects, and the underlying rules of the world feel familiar yet are presented through a refreshing, distinct lens.

What sets it apart is how the story portrays the protagonist, Lu Bei, in various ironic situations. Instead of being a cold, stoic lead solely dedicated to cultivation, he constantly has to navigate predicaments that are as dangerous as they are hilarious.

Plot and Pacing

The story begins as Lu Bei is swept into the turbulent undercurrents of the cultivation world. From there, his journey becomes intertwined with various major sects, secret realms, and power struggles within the cultivation world.

The plot progression is what gives the novel its unique charm. Alongside the battles and the pursuit of power, the author frequently injects satirical dialogue, keeping the tone much lighter than most traditional xianxia novels.

However, due to the massive chapter count, certain arcs can feel somewhat repetitive. Readers who prefer a highly focused narrative with minimal filler might find the pacing slower than expected at times.

Characters and Cultivation Realms

The protagonist, Lu Bei, is the beating heart of the story. Highly adaptable and calculating, he often handles conflicts in ways that deviate from the typical righteous protagonist trope.

• Protagonist: Lu Bei, a cultivator embarking on a journey to grow his power within the Nine Provinces.
• Personality: Pragmatic, highly adaptable, and prone to triggering comical situations.
• Power System: Centered around the cultivation process, cultivation realms, and unique abilities of cultivators.

The cultivation system features classic xianxia tropes, with distinct power tiers and clear gaps in strength between cultivators. Newcomers to the genre might need some time to get used to the heavy terminology and the mechanics of this world.

Worldbuilding

One of the novel's standout features is its worldbuilding. The Nine Provinces is not just a mere backdrop for characters to fight and level up; it is populated by distinct factions, sects, and its own set of operating rules.

The vast cultivation world provides ample room for the narrative to expand. The detailed regions, organizations, and conflicts between different interest groups make the world feel alive, possessing its own history and autonomous dynamics.

On the downside, the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming. Readers new to xianxia may need some patience to memorize all the concepts, realms, and faction relationships.

Writing Style and Tone

The writing style of Phượng Trào Hoàng leans heavily towards a blend of adventure, comedy, and unexpected twists. Instead of taking itself too seriously, the novel frequently utilizes humor to defuse high-tension scenes.

The most memorable aspect of the novel is how it turns typical cultivation scenarios into highly unconventional situations. Because of this, despite featuring many familiar xianxia elements, the story retains a distinct identity of its own.

Readers who prefer a grim, serious, or tragic tone might find this comedic approach a bit jarring.

Pros

• Lu Bei has a unique personality that breaks free from traditional xianxia protagonist clichés.
• A multilayered cultivation world rich with diverse factions and intricate rules.
• The seamless blend of combat and comedy prevents the narrative from feeling too heavy.
• A long-running novel, perfect for readers who enjoy slow-burn progression fantasy.

Cons

• The dense terminology may pose a barrier for newcomers to xianxia.
• Certain story arcs can feel unnecessarily drawn out.
• The comedic tone might not appeal to readers seeking a purely serious atmosphere.

Conclusion

Cultivation Is Like This is an excellent choice for readers looking for a long-form xianxia novel that masterfully blends cultivation, adventure, and humor. It is not just about advancing through realms, but also about how a character adapts and thrives in a complex world.

In summary: This is a highly entertaining xianxia novel that stands out due to its unconventional protagonist and expansive worldbuilding.

Tags: xianxia, cultivation, comedy