Fact Check: Are MDZS and TGCF in the same universe?

Are MDZS and TGCF in the Same Universe?

The claim that "Mo Dao Zu Shi" (MDZS) and "Tian Guan Ci Fu" (TGCF) exist within the same universe has been a topic of discussion among fans of these popular Chinese novels. Both works are authored by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu (MXTX) and share thematic elements typical of the xianxia and danmei genres. However, the question of whether they are interconnected in terms of narrative or universe remains ambiguous and is often debated within fan communities.

What We Know

Genre Classification: Both MDZS and TGCF belong to the xianxia and danmei genres, which are characterized by elements of fantasy, martial arts, and romantic relationships between male characters. This genre often features similar tropes and settings, which can lead to assumptions of interconnectedness among works within it 2.
Author's Intent: According to discussions among fans, MXTX's novels are generally considered standalone stories. A Tumblr post states that all three of MXTX's major works (including "Scum Villain's Self-Saving System") are unrelated to each other, despite sharing genre conventions 2.
Fan Interpretations: Fans often create crossover content that blends characters and settings from MDZS and TGCF, suggesting a perceived connection. However, this is largely a creative exercise rather than an indication of canonical ties 7 9.
Character and Thematic Differences: MDZS focuses on themes of mystery-solving and moral dilemmas, while TGCF emphasizes epic romance and the exploration of love transcending lifetimes. These thematic distinctions further support the idea that the two narratives operate independently 1 3.
Community Discussions: Various forums and social media platforms, such as Novel Updates and Tumblr, host discussions where fans express differing opinions on the potential for crossover elements, but these are often speculative and not based on concrete evidence from the texts themselves 1 6.

Analysis

The claim that MDZS and TGCF are set in the same universe lacks substantial evidence from the texts or the author's statements. The sources available present a mix of opinions and interpretations rather than definitive answers.

Source Reliability:
- The Tumblr post 2 is user-generated and reflects personal opinions rather than authoritative statements. While it provides insight into community beliefs, it lacks verification from the author or official sources.
- Forum discussions 1 3 6 also represent fan interpretations and may be biased by personal preferences or the desire for shared universe theories. These discussions can be informative but should be approached with caution due to their subjective nature.
Potential Conflicts of Interest: Many of the discussions originate from fan communities that may have a vested interest in promoting the idea of interconnected universes for the sake of fan engagement and creative exploration. This could lead to confirmation bias, where fans interpret evidence in a way that supports their existing beliefs.
Methodological Concerns: The absence of direct statements from MXTX regarding the universes of her novels complicates the analysis. Without clear guidance from the author, interpretations remain speculative. Additional information from interviews or author notes would be beneficial in clarifying the intent behind the narratives.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that "Mo Dao Zu Shi" (MDZS) and "Tian Guan Ci Fu" (TGCF) exist within the same universe is false. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes the author's intent for each novel to be a standalone story, the distinct thematic focuses of each work, and the lack of concrete evidence from the texts or the author indicating a shared universe. While fan interpretations and creative crossovers suggest a perceived connection, these are speculative and not grounded in canonical material.

It is important to note that the discussions surrounding this claim are often influenced by personal biases and the creative desires of fan communities. The absence of definitive statements from MXTX regarding the universes of her novels leaves room for ambiguity, but the current evidence does not support the assertion of interconnectedness.

Readers should remain critical of such claims and evaluate the information presented, recognizing the limitations of available evidence and the potential for subjective interpretation within fan discussions.

Sources

Question - Is GDC or TGCF better? - Novel Updates Forum. Link
Hi! Are all of MXTXs novels set in the same universe? Or ... - Tumblr. Link
MDZS, TGCF, and SVSSS | General Discussion - Flight Rising. Link
No Paths Are Bound - Fanlore. Link
Special Feature: A Guide to the Mo Dao Zu Shi Universe [#MDZS] - Love Without Gender. Link
MXTX Novels (Mo Dao Zu Shi, Scum Villain, Heaven Official's ...) - Kintsugi. Link
TGCF & MDZS Crossover - Archive of Our Own. Link
Or, Differences Between MDZS & MXTX's Other Novels - Tumblr. Link
MDZS x TGCF - Haloblossom18 - Wattpad. Link
Hi,, I hope I'm not bothering you with this and... - Tumblr. Link