Introduction
Martial Master (Chinese title: 武神主宰, Wu Shen Zhu Zai) is a Chinese donghua (web animation) adapted from a popular manhua / light-novel of the same name. It started airing in 2020, and is known for its cultivation martial arts fantasy, reincarnation, revenge, and legacy themes.
Plot Overview
- The story begins with Qin Chen, once celebrated as a supreme genius in martial arts, who is betrayed and thrown into a perilous place called the Death Canyon.
- He is presumed dead, but a mysterious ancient sword awakens within him, giving him powers that allow him a second chance.
- Three hundred years later, a young boy named Qin Chen (same name), bound by bloodline to King Dingwu of the Daqi National Army, is living with hardship. His family coldly treats him because of status or birth issues.
- The reincarnated Qin Chen inherits his past life’s legacy, strives to protect his loved ones, reclaim honor, master cultivation, and reshape the fate of the Tianwu Mainland.
Characters
- Qin Chen — The protagonist. First his past life’s genius, then after betrayal, he is reborn into a weaker status and slowly rebuilds.
- King Dingwu — A figure in power whose legacy is linked to Qin Chen; the palace and family politics are important around his role.
- Supporting characters, enemies, rivals, and allies that challenge or assist Qin Chen along his journey of cultivation and retribution. The relationships, both antagonistic and friendly, influence the emotional stakes.
Themes & Highlights
- Reincarnation & Legacy — Using a past life to guide the present; inheriting not just power, but also the responsibilities and burdens.
- Revenge and Redemption — The betrayal that causes Qin Chen’s fall, and his later quest to right those wrongs.
- Cultivation & Martial Power Scaling — Frequent martial arts battles, cultivation steps, refining techniques, and mastering the ancient sword.
- Family & Hierarchy Conflicts — Struggles within royal or noble settings, being an illegitimate or underappreciated son, palace intrigue, social prejudice.
- Rise from Weakness — Qin Chen is bullied or marginalized early on, then gradually rises by strength, discipline, and inner power.
Format, Release & Status
- The donghua was released in 2020.
- Episodes are short (≈ 7-8 minutes each per episode) typical of many ongoing Chinese ONAs.
- The series is ongoing, with hundreds of episodes already released.
Where to Watch
- Official/streaming donghua platforms (Chinese) have Martial Master.
- It has English subtitles via some donghua streaming sites.
Strengths & Weaknesses
What people like:
- The reincarnation and legacy angle gives a compelling emotional weight.
- Good fight scenes, cultivation system, and steady power growth.
- Qin Chen’s journey from lowest point to powerful cultivator is satisfying.
Critiques / Challenges:
- Because episodes are short, pacing can sometimes feel rushed or disjointed.
- The quality of animation and art style can fluctuate between episodes.
- Some viewers may find the characters besides the main cast underdeveloped.
Final Thoughts
Martial Master is a solid pick for fans of cultivation, reincarnation, revenge plots, and martial arts fantasy. If you enjoy stories where the protagonist is underestimated, then fights his way up using both past life skills and present challenges, this donghua offers a long and engaging journey.
