Struggling with how to write a fight scene that feels dynamic, impactful, and keeps your readers hooked? You’re not alone. Crafting compelling combat narrative is a challenge many writers face. The key often lies in understanding the underlying structure and tension-building techniques that make action sequences shine.

In this post, we break down seven proven templates for writing combat scenes, translated from popular Chinese web novel story structures. These “formulas” provide a fantastic blueprint for constructing everything from a classic one-on-one duel to an unexpected underdog victory. Whether you’re looking for written fight scene examples or a step-by-step guide on how to write a fight scene, these frameworks will give you concrete starting points to engineer thrilling, reader-satisfying conflict.

Let’s dive into these seven powerful formulas for writing combat scene masterpieces.

Formula 1: The Fair 1v1 Duel

Setup: The rival challenges the male lead (MALE LEAD), who accepts. Anticipation builds for this clash. The MALE LEAD trains beforehand, but after hearing some rumors while wandering, he becomes angry and resolves to win decisively.

1.  Describe the weather—unpleasant and oppressive—using the setting to build atmosphere.

2.  The MALE LEAD’s friends and family cheer him on. The MALE LEAD makes a grand entrance using his most impressive movement technique, greeting a senior who lights up and praises him.

3.  Describe the arena. Following the MALE LEAD’s gaze, he sees his rival waiting solemnly below the stage.

4.  The rival meets the MALE LEAD’s gaze fearlessly, snorts coldly, and leaps onto the stage with equally swift movements, causing his fans to cheer. The MALE LEAD’s fans retaliate by shouting the MALE LEAD’s name. The entire arena erupts, boiling with excitement.

5.  The referee briefly states the rules in one sentence, then glances at the high platform, where a sect leader-level figure nods.

6.  The match is announced. The MALE LEAD bows to his rival, who returns the gesture.

7.  The crowd falls silent, but the VIPs on the high platform discuss animatedly. An elder first praises the rival’s fearless, razor-sharp aura. Another elder says the outcome is hard to predict. The sect leader, however, favors the MALE LEAD.

8.  The MALE LEAD secretly resolves to win cleanly and quickly. The fight begins. He forces his rival back with his first move, then smiles faintly. He unleashes a relentless combo. The rival is shocked, instinctively wanting to counter-attack but finding no opening; all his moves are spent defending against the MALE LEAD’s endless, strange techniques. Then, his weapon is sent flying, and the MALE LEAD’s weapon points at his vital spot. Surprisingly, the MALE LEAD, seemingly with ease, holds back at the last moment, sparing him.

9.  The audience is stunned. Even the VIPs who doubted the MALE LEAD gasp in astonishment.

10. The VIPs discuss the MALE LEAD’s performance. With their expert eyes, they recognize the sheer skill, pointing out that once that move was executed, the more the rival struggled, the faster he’d lose. They also note the rival’s own considerable skill. The sect leader, pleased, deduces the MALE LEAD’s current cultivation level based on his final restraint and expresses great expectations for his future.

 Formula 2: The MALE LEAD Challenges His Tormentor

Setup: The MALE LEAD has been oppressed by this rival, both openly and covertly, building up rage. After achieving a breakthrough in his training, he finds an opportunity to teach the rival a lesson.

1.  The rival looks down on the MALE LEAD, arrogantly boasting that he’ll show the MALE LEAD the power of superior techniques today.

2.  The MALE LEAD smiles confidently, saying he looks forward to the rival’s instruction.

3.  Their confrontation attracts many onlookers. The MALE LEAD’s friends and family among them guarantee his victory.

4.  The rival’s internal monologue: Old and new grudges surface. He wants to severely injure the MALE LEAD but dares not kill him due to rules against killing in sparring matches.

5.  The rival arrogantly asks if the MALE LEAD is ready. The MALE LEAD’s sarcastic reply further fuels the rival’s anger.

6.  The rival attacks, but the MALE LEAD dodges easily. The MALE LEAD says, “Don’t bother with such basic moves. Show me your real skills.” Enraged, the rival charges forward, his moves fierce, with qi explosions like rolling thunder.

7.  The MALE LEAD, still smiling, makes his move. One strike forces the rival back; another lands, forcing the rival to dodge awkwardly.

8.  The audience exclaims at the speed and ferocity of the MALE LEAD’s attacks.

9.  The rival recovers, looking disheveled, and secretly acknowledges the MALE LEAD’s skill.

10. Those usually bullied by the rival whisper that he’s in for a lesson today.

11. The prideful rival, hearing the chatter, thinks to himself he mustn’t embarrass himself further.

12. The MALE LEAD seizes the moment to mock him, telling him not to hold back.

13. The rival unveils his ultimate move, truly powerful. The MALE LEAD uses hidden force and disarms him in just two moves.

14. The rival’s face falls as he’s sent flying by another strike from the MALE LEAD.

15. The audience buzzes with excited discussion.

16. The MALE LEAD advances, saying, “This is your ultimate move?!” The rival, terrified, wipes the blood off and stands up.

17. The MALE LEAD’s gaze is sharp, emitting killing intent. He exposes the rival’s past misdeeds and threatens him to stop bullying others.

18. The rival’s internal monologue: He finally realizes this person he always looked down on is formidable. Provoking him further could be disastrous, so he seizes the chance to back down.

 Formula 3: The High-Stakes Climactic Duel

Setup: The rival challenges the MALE LEAD, who accepts. On the day, the weather is described. The crowd is massive; the city is empty. Everyone, from commoners to nobles, is there. The MALE LEAD’s loved ones are worried, especially a previous fighter who lost to the rival and says the MALE LEAD is at a disadvantage. The MALE LEAD arrives early; the rival soon follows. The MALE LEAD’s woman clutches her hands, palms sweaty. Millions of spectators are utterly silent, feeling an unprecedented pressure. All eyes are on the two figures in the sky. They exchange words. The rival is arrogant, looking down on the MALE LEAD, saying he’ll see if the MALE LEAD is worth him drawing his sword or using his ultimate technique.

1.  Hearing this, the MALE LEAD’s side curses the rival’s arrogance.

2.  The MALE LEAD releases his aura. The rival, recognizing its quality, immediately admits the MALE LEAD is qualified to make him use his ultimate move.

3.  Seeing the rival draw his sword, the audience’s heartbeats quicken. The MALE LEAD’s love has sweat on her brow.

4.  The MALE LEAD strikes first. Expert spectators secretly praise the strength and sophistication of his technique. Others watch breathlessly.

5.  Their first clash shakes heaven and earth, stunning everyone. The power of both is immense! The MALE LEAD’s woman feels proud.

6.  The MALE LEAD’s internal monologue: He’s also surprised by the rival’s strength. The rival compliments the MALE LEAD and declares he will use his ultimate move.

7.  The MALE LEAD’s followers know he will respond in kind and watch nervously.

8.  Ultimate vs. ultimate. The MALE LEAD’s internal monologue reveals his condition and guesses the rival’s injuries. The rival’s internal monologue admits he is already severely wounded.

9.  An even fiercer clash. The MALE LEAD is heavily injured; the rival is also in bad shape. The situation is brutal.

10. The audience is stunned by the MALE LEAD’s display, especially given his youth. They thought he was only slightly stronger than average, but now he’s fighting a top expert to a standstill. The previously defeated expert sighs. Those who thought the MALE LEAD would lose now dare not say so.

11. Seeing the MALE LEAD injured, the female lead is almost in tears, her heart trembling uncontrollably. The MALE LEAD’s followers are tense.

12. They clash again. By now, ordinary spectators can no longer follow their movements due to the difference in realm.

13. The female lead is drenched in sweat, eyes fixed unblinkingly on the sky. The tension is unprecedented!

14. The battle creates a scene of apocalyptic destruction. The audience is petrified, the scene deathly quiet. A certain lord’s throat twitches; other experts gasp. The MALE LEAD’s followers get excited.

15. The fight continues, obliterating mountains and evaporating rivers. This battle will be forever etched in the memory of all who witness it.

16. Ending: The rival tries to seize an opportunity to land a heavy blow, but the MALE LEAD’s followers and pets rush in to stop him. The MALE LEAD is honorably defeated.

 Formula 4: The Classic Underdog’s First Victory & Follow-up

Setup: The MALE LEAD is notoriously weak, a known training punchbag. The opponent is decent, a minor boss-level character. No one believes in the MALE LEAD. The opponent plans to vent his frustration on the MALE LEAD and regain his confidence. There are spectators, but they’re only there to see how the MALE LEAD will lose.

1.  The start: The opponent charges to end the fight instantly. His movements scream “expert.” The audience thinks it’s overkill. The fight will likely end in one round.

2.  The MALE LEAD is calm and unhurried. As the opponent closes in, he suddenly uses an unorthodox technique of significant difficulty. The unprepared opponent is instantly defeated.

3.  The audience is dumbfounded, thinking they saw wrong. They are amazed by this incredible move.

4.  The MALE LEAD leaves quickly. However, news of this battle spreads rapidly.

5.  Other experts hear about it and become curious, wanting to know the MALE LEAD’s identity.

Secondary Setup (Sequel Fight): To build momentum for the MALE LEAD’s second fight, it’s revealed that the previous loser was actually a notable expert, deeply unwilling to accept defeat. The MALE LEAD trains, confirms his ability to defeat strong enemies, and is excited. Then, a highly accomplished expert challenges the MALE LEAD, someone seemingly on a completely different level. The audience expects another miracle. The crowd is huge.

1.  Having seen the MALE LEAD’s previous fight, the new opponent is well-equipped, cautious, defensive, and evasive, not attacking proactively. There are professional analysts in the crowd.

2.  The MALE LEAD doesn’t plan to use his previous trump card, as the opponent is likely prepared. Now, with sharper eyes, he clearly reads the opponent’s rhythm, predicts his movements, and plans to attack proactively.

3.  The MALE LEAD strikes first, hitting the opponent and causing sensory disorientation. The opponent panics and starts attacking wildly.

4.  The MALE LEAD charges through the dense barrage of attacks. The enemy hears him and reacts, but the MALE LEAD uses a *new* ultimate move to instantly defeat him.

5.  The audience is silent, unable to believe it. The MALE LEAD leaves again to review his experience.

6.  This fight causes another sensation. Include analyses praising the MALE LEAD as a prodigy.

 Formula 5: The Confident Return

Setup: After gaining some fame, the MALE LEAD disappears for secret training. His absence fuels public curiosity and anticipation for his return and next miracle. This time, the MALE LEAD picks the opponent—someone with a >70% win rate and custom-modified gear. The match attracts massive attention.

1.  First, describe the opponent’s advantages. Confident in his skills, he attacks proactively. The MALE LEAD remains still, responding to the attack.

2.  Using his weapon’s advantage, the opponent attacks fiercely, trying to break the MALE LEAD’s weapon. Shockingly, the MALE LEAD uses the *same move*, but faster, stronger, and better, instantly defeating him. Insert the audience’s shock, suspecting the MALE LEAD isn’t human.

3.  The crowd goes wild, convinced the MALE LEAD can become king in this field.

4.  Ending: Technical analysts break down the fight, highlighting the sheer power and precision of the MALE LEAD’s instant counter-attack. They praise his exquisite technique and physical prowess.

 Formula 6: Against a Tricky, Cheesing Opponent

Setup: The MALE LEAD’s fame soars, attracting hordes of fans. Many skip school or work to watch, causing a massive viewing wave. This opponent is highly skilled at using equipment advantages and is cunning. He has studied the MALE LEAD’s fights and doesn’t believe the MALE LEAD can win.

1.  The fight starts with the opponent using “cheap” tactics like stealth and interference. The audience’s hearts clench; they know it’s impossible for the MALE LEAD to lock onto the opponent under these conditions.

2.  The MALE LEAD is indeed at a disadvantage, temporarily unable to find the opponent’s hiding spot.

3.  Using this advantage, the opponent destroys the MALE LEAD’s ranged weapon. The MALE LEAD’s supporters are indignant, roaring in frustration.

4.  The MALE LEAD charges forward with his melee weapon, which also gets destroyed. However, he uses this to pinpoint the opponent’s location and pounces. The opponent is狡猾, using hit-and-run tactics, but the MALE LEAD catches him through continuous movement and instantly defeats him.

5.  The audience is stunned by the MALE LEAD’s ferocity, thinking it’s unreal—he won even under these conditions. The MALE LEAD seems almost omnipotent.

6.  Analyzing the fight, the audience realizes the MALE LEAD had located the opponent from the start but was pretending to be weak to lull him into carelessness—a classic “playing dumb to eat the tiger” move.

7.  The opponent admits he is thoroughly outplayed.

 Formula 7: Against a Top-Tier Equipped, Arrogant Opponent

Setup: This fight is against a strong, arrogant opponent wearing top-tier gear. The audience is enormous.

1.  The battle environment is extremely unfavorable for the MALE LEAD, causing great worry among the spectators.

2.  Pre-fight: The opponent’s internal monologue reveals his rigorous training and confidence far surpassing his peers. The MALE LEAD is adapting to the environment.

3.  The fight starts. The MALE LEAD is excited. The opponent is also excited because his gear adapts perfectly to the environment. He just needs a short adjustment period, after which it will be time to crush the MALE LEAD.

4.  Before the opponent finishes adjusting, the MALE LEAD moves first, adapting *while* moving. His first few attempts are clumsy, but soon he finds his footing. The opponent grows tense, realizing the MALE LEAD has already adapted.

5.  However, the opponent isn’t afraid. His weapon is too good—it’s a divine weapon vs. a kitchen knife. He’s confident he can cut the MALE LEAD’s weapon.

6.  They charge each other but both miss, dodging quickly. The opponent then uses a high-powered ranged weapon. The MALE LEAD evades it with a ghostly movement technique. The opponent follows up with an even stronger ranged attack. The MALE LEAD responds with his own ranged attack, mid-air, with extreme precision.

7.  Seizing the moment during the ranged exchange, the MALE LEAD closes in. The opponent reacts and strikes, but his weapon is *seized* by the MALE LEAD. Shocked, the opponent retreats violently.

8.  The MALE LEAD shakes his head in contempt, prompting cheers from the audience and fury from the opponent. The opponent frantically uses ranged attacks, all precisely shot down by the MALE LEAD. Then, as the opponent prepares a devastating, situation-reversing move, the MALE LEAD takes him down with one precise ranged shot and acquires a powerful item.