The little added structure and routine it brings to my day. There's something so fun about saying "it's Rong time" everyday at 5pm.
The new people I've met through the game and having it as our main point of camaraderie. The game never ceases to have topics for conversation.
The complexity of the features offered in the game tend to be a real strategic brain workout. I'm not always a fan of the stress that comes along with it, but I find ways to work through it. Mostly by getting my thoughts out in blog posts here.
That you can play this game as either P2P or F2P, be as competitive or noncompetitive as you want, and still enjoy all the game has to offer.
The in-game references to both palace harem dramas and actual Chinese history has inspired me to learn more about the real people the characters are based on.
Getting to customize your avatar, particularly after another famous character, is a welcomed little bit of creative relaxation. Especially after a long day of watching your two adorable boys.
And finally, who doesn't love a great choose your own adventure story? Okay, so there's not much "choice" involved, as your choices do nothing to alter the outcome of the story itself. But the story is definitely worth reading, especially if you love the aforementioned palace harem dramas like me.