While the video game market is usually dominated by AAA titles and massive ongoing franchises, every so often a game from a smaller studio cuts through the noise. Chinese developer Game Science’s upcoming action RPGBlack Myth: Wukongdefinitely turned a few heads when it dropped a surprise trailer in 2020 which included over ten minutes of gameplay. The glimpse at the game certainly impressed players with its visuals and interesting central concept, andBlack Myth: Wukongcontinued to exceed fan expectations with a 2021 trailer that showed off Unreal Engine 5 gameplay.
Anticipation forBlack Myth: Wukongis incredibly high, and even though gamers have had a good look at the game in action, there’s still not a whole lot known about it. From what has been shown so far, however,Black Myth: Wukongseems to be giving off serious Soulslike vibes, mixed with a healthy dose ofDragon Ball Z– a potent combination that should please fans of both.
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Laying The Groundwork For The Game
There is an ongoing relationship between video games and mythology. The latter can be a fertile source of inspiration for games and is often used to inform settings, storylines, and characters. The last few years have seen plenty of these titles, such asImmortals Fenyx Risingand its DLC, or 2018’sGod of Warand its upcoming sequel.Black Myth: Wukongis another such title, borrowing from the sixteenth-century Chinese novelJourney to the Westand drawing inspiration from the epic saga’s legendary mythical figure Sun Wukong, or the Monkey King.
Not much is known aboutBlack Myth: Wukong’s storybesides its literary and mythological influences, so players have had to piece things together from the gameplay that has been shown off so far. Gamers will be taking control of the monkey-like main character who will be based on Sun Wukong, and will be able to make use of his formidable fighting skills and powers, including the ability to transform into different forms. It seems like the game will be full of intriguing characters, challenging enemies, and thought-provoking interactions, and players are excited to learn more.
The Influence Of Other Franchises
Alongside more historical, literary, or mythological inspirations, games can also be influenced by other titles. WhileBlack Myth: Wukonglooks like its own incredibly unique experience, there are still some elements that are reminiscent of other franchises.FromSoftware’sSoulsbornegameshave been foundational for so many subsequent titles, and their influence has been felt for years. Their intricate designs, wonderfully grotesque enemy types, and relentless gameplay that places an emphasis on dying have helped to shape many IPs, and it seems likeBlack Myth: Wukongmight be taking a page out of their book as well. Its bleak but beautiful landscapes, lonesome protagonist, and fascinating foes look like a fresh take on Soulsborne tropes, which should definitely be interesting.
While the game will undoubtedly appeal to a wide audience, including fans of the Soulsborne games, there is also an argument forDragon Ball Zenthusiasts to check outBlack Myth: Wukongas well. On the surface, comparisons may not be that apparent between the two given the aesthetics, but Dragon Ball Z was also inspired in part byJourney to the West.It will likely share thematic elements withBlack Myth: Wukongas a result, as well as parallels between Wukong andDragon Ball Z’s Goku. Some players have also pointed out similarities between the powers that Wukong displays in the gameplay footage and the abilities ofDragon Ball Zcharacters as they take on incredibly powerful enemies. The stylistic combat, battles against heavy odds, and Chinese influences tick a lot ofDragon Ball Zboxes.
Black Myth: Wukongcertainly has the attention of players, and as long as it keeps its cards close to its chest it will continue to be the center of much speculation. A lot of the game still remains a mystery, but it’s clear it will be a visually stunning experience, no matter what elseBlack Myth: Wukonghas in store. Once players are able to play through the game themselves, they may be surprised by even moresimilarities betweenBlack Myth: Wukongand other franchises.
Black Myth: Wukongis scheduled to release in 2023 for PC and unspecified platforms.
