"COMBAT MODE" is inspired by retro video game posters. It depicts two creatures in battle, melding the nostalgia of old school video games with the contemporary possibilities of digital illustration. The series combines digital collage, algorithmic design and techniques, along with generative AI. The same underlying image comes in 10 different palettes with varying probabilities of appearing, ranging from highly common to ultra rare. Each piece comes stamped with its corresponding transaction hash for a sense of provenance and a touch of uniqueness.

Influenced by Xie's lifelong love for video games, "COMBAT MODE" is more than just a nod to the world of gaming; it is a salute to those based individuals who continuously level up and conquer every challenge.