Black Myth Wukong: the video game that is sweeping and positioning China

The title based on the legend of the Monkey King becomes a global phenomenon, redefining the quality standards in action-adventure games.

Since its initial announcement, “ Black Myth: Wukong” has captured the attention of gamers around the world. It is a video game developed by Chinese independent studio Game Science. It is based on the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West,” which centers on the iconic character Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, who faces countless challenges in his quest for enlightenment.

What has truly set Black Myth: Wukong apart from other games on the market is its stunning graphical quality and focus on a narrative deeply rooted in Chinese mythology. Using the Unreal Engine 5 graphics engine, Game Science has created a visually stunning world that combines detailed landscapes, fluid animations and special effects that have left critics and players alike speechless.

But the game doesn't just stand out for its looks. The narrative dives into the rich mythology of Journey to the West, offering a gameplay experience that is both educational and exciting. This blend of culture and action has especially resonated with players looking for a deeper, more meaningful experience.

Millions of copies sold and counting

"Black Myth: Wukong" has not only raised gamers' expectations, but also put China's gaming industry on the map in an unprecedented way.

Previously, the country's development had a focus on mobile games and free-to-play titles, but now the Chinese industry is proving that it can compete with major Western studios in terms of quality and creativity. This shift has led to renewed interest in game development talent in Asia, and many experts believe that this is just the beginning of a new era for gaming in the region.

According to data from Statista, the title, which was released on August 19, 2024, has already sold 10 million copies in three days, making it one of the fastest-selling video games of all time. Hailed as the first AAA video game in the Chinese gaming industry, the title was released for PC and PS5, with an Xbox version following shortly after.

Chinese video game industry

Despite being the world's largest gaming market in terms of revenue, the Chinese industry has faced obstacles such as a ban on gaming consoles and strict regulations on the release of games and the amount of time allowed for citizens to play.

These restrictions raised eyebrows during the launch of "Black Myth: Wukong," as content creators and streamers were given a list of topics they were to avoid discussing during the game's live streams.

Despite these challenges, Chinese video games have gained international presence in recent years. Previously, the market was more focused on mobile and domestic releases, but now China is recognized for leading the development of free-to-play action role-playing games, such as "Genshin Impact," which has given rise to a new genre of anime-style open-world games.