Fugitives from the third dimension

The world of nijigen has a strong grip on some, but for others it has become a dying love

It is 3.30 am on a windy Sunday in northeastern Beijing. After nine hours playing board and handheld games, Zheng Rui waves goodbye to his four mates, unlocks his bike and prepares to leave their weekly meeting place, the Otaku Center.

"See you guys next weekend," Zheng yells, turning to two young men with cars, "and drive safely."