The Nanman Elephant draws inspiration from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, where war elephants are a significant feature of the Southern Campaigns led by Zhuge Liang against the Nanman tribes. These elephants are prominently associated with Meng Huo and his allies, particularly Mulu, the King of the Bana Ravine, and King Wutugu. Mulu is described riding a white elephant adorned with gold and pearl ornaments, symbolizing his authority and the exotic strength of the Nanman forces. Similarly, King Wutugu appears on a magnificent white elephant, clad in ornate battle attire with a resplendent presence that intimidated his enemies.

In the novel, these elephants were not only symbolic of the wild and untamed South but also served as powerful defensive assets, equipped with rattan armor that made them difficult to harm with conventional weapons. The elephants, massive and imposing, provided protection for their riders and posed a formidable challenge to Shu forces. The Nanman Elephant in the game reflects this defensive nature, embodying the resilience and grandeur of these legendary beasts that played a pivotal role in the fierce battles of the Southern Campaigns.