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Black Myth: Wukong

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Black Myth: Wukong
Item: Black Myth: Wukong
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableAug 19, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperGame Science

Overview

Announced on 19th August, Black Myth: Wukong is a retelling of the classic Chinese mythology epic Journey to the West, and, based on the gameplay video below, it could be a hit. It's the work of a Hangzhou-based studio called Game Science, and is billed as China's first triple-A title.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong impresses with its ambitious adaptation of Journey to the West, featuring rich world-building and stunning visuals. However, critics cite significant issues with narrative clarity and character development, leaving many confused and underwhelmed. While it appeals to fans of the source material, its disjointed storytelling may alienate a wider audience, making it a visually striking but narratively flawed experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Black Myth: Wukong has garnered praise for its ambitious adaptation of the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. Critics like CGMagazine and Eurogamer Portugal highlight the game’s engaging narrative and rich world-building, noting that it effectively integrates elements of Chinese mythology and culture. The game is commended for its impressive cutscenes and character designs, with reviewers such as GamingBolt and MeuPlayStation describing the storytelling as emotionally resonant and filled with surprises. Several critics appreciate the depth of the lore and the exploration of themes such as power and redemption, as seen in the opinions of GameMAG and Merlin'in Kazanı. However, the consensus among many reviewers points to significant shortcomings in the narrative clarity and coherence. Critics like GameSkinny and Metro GameCentral emphasize that the story can be confusing, particularly for players unfamiliar with the source material. This sentiment is echoed by IGN Japan and Gamepressure, who note that the narrative lacks depth and character development, leaving players with unanswered questions. The fragmented structure and disjointed storytelling have led to a perception of a rushed development process, as highlighted by Noisy Pixel and Gamer.no, making it difficult for players to fully engage with the plot. Overall, while Black Myth: Wukong showcases a compelling premise rooted in rich cultural heritage, the execution of its story leaves much to be desired. Many critics agree that the game may resonate more with those already familiar with Journey to the West, as indicated by RPGamer and Shacknews. The narrative's lack of clarity and depth has led to mixed feelings among reviewers, with some appreciating the ambition behind the retelling while others find it ultimately underdeveloped. As a result, the game stands as a visually stunning yet narratively flawed adaptation that may struggle to connect with a broader audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong impresses with its thrilling combat and boss fights, combining action RPG and Souls-like mechanics for engaging gameplay. Critics praise its fluidity and skill-based encounters but highlight issues like repetitive combat, predictable enemy patterns, and linear exploration that undermine depth. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—exciting moments abound, but long-term engagement may wane for some players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Black Myth: Wukong has garnered attention for its engaging combat mechanics and the variety of abilities it offers players. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and IGN Italia praise the combat system for being exhilarating and versatile, allowing for skill-based encounters and experimentation with different combat styles. The game features a mix of action RPG elements and Souls-like mechanics, which many reviewers, including PC Gamer and Jeuxvideo.com, highlight as a strong point. Boss fights are frequently cited as a standout feature, with several critics like GINX TV and RPGamer noting their impressive design and challenge, contributing to an overall sense of satisfaction in gameplay progression. The fluidity of combat, as mentioned by GameGrin and CGMagazine, enhances the experience, making it enjoyable for both casual and hardcore players. However, the gameplay is not without its flaws, as many critics point out issues that detract from the overall experience. Games.cz and Eurogamer criticize the combat for being repetitive and lacking depth, particularly during encounters with lesser enemies. Metro GameCentral and Shacknews echo this sentiment, noting that while the combat becomes more satisfying as players progress, the initial chapters can feel tedious and easy. Furthermore, some reviewers, including SpazioGames and Gamer.no, highlight predictable enemy patterns and chaotic combat as detracting factors, leading to a sense of shallowness in gameplay. The linearity of exploration is also a common critique, with several critics, such as Movies Games and Tech, mentioning that it hampers the potential for deeper engagement with the game world. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Black Myth: Wukong is a mixed bag of praise and caution. While the combat system and boss encounters are frequently lauded for their excitement and challenge, the game suffers from issues related to repetitiveness, linearity, and a lack of depth in certain areas. Critics like Guardian and PCGamesN note that the game successfully blends various mechanics, creating an engaging experience, yet many also agree that it falls short of fully realizing its potential. As a result, Black Myth: Wukong appears to be a title that offers thrilling moments but may not sustain long-term engagement for all players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong dazzles with stunning visuals and masterful design, lauded for its breathtaking environments and detailed character work thanks to Unreal Engine 5. Critics rave about its rich mythological atmosphere drawn from Chinese culture, blending traditional aesthetics with modern tech. However, performance issues plague the experience, with reports of framerate drops, glitches, and lackluster level design detracting from its potential. While the game's visuals shine, technical inconsistencies and navigation challenges hold it back from greatness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Black Myth: Wukong is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game's stunning visuals and artistic direction. Reviewers such as IGN Japan and GamingBolt highlight the breathtaking environments and detailed character designs, noting that the game effectively utilizes Unreal Engine 5 to create immersive and visually appealing worlds. Critics like Dexerto and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the impressive lighting, textures, and animations, which contribute to a rich mythological atmosphere inspired by Chinese culture. The game's ability to blend traditional aesthetics with modern technology is frequently acknowledged, making it a standout title in terms of visual fidelity. However, despite the acclaim, several critics pointed out notable performance issues that detract from the overall experience. Eurogamer Portugal and RPGamer mentioned inconsistencies in graphics quality, particularly on the PS5, where significant framerate drops and technical glitches were observed. Critics such as PC Gamer and Wccftech echoed these concerns, citing stuttering frame rates and crashes, especially on PC. Additionally, some reviewers, including SpazioGames and Shacknews, criticized the level design for lacking depth and variety, with certain areas feeling empty or hindering navigation due to a lack of clear landmarks. In conclusion, while the majority of critics agree that Black Myth: Wukong boasts impressive graphics and visual design, the consensus also acknowledges the presence of performance issues that may impact gameplay. Critics like Power Unlimited and Push Square commend the game's beautiful visuals and animations, but they also recognize that technical inconsistencies can hinder the overall experience. Overall, the game is celebrated for its aesthetic achievements, yet it remains clear that improvements in performance and level design could elevate it to an even higher standard.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong impresses with its sound design and music, receiving praise for a powerful soundtrack featuring traditional Chinese instruments that enhance gameplay immersion. Critics highlight the quality of voice acting and the integration of both English and Mandarin, adding depth to character interactions. However, some issues like missing subtitles and a lack of standout musical themes have been noted. Overall, the game's audio elements are celebrated for enriching the gaming experience, despite some mixed reviews.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Black Myth: Wukong have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Gamepressure and IGN, praised the powerful soundtrack, particularly noting the incorporation of traditional Chinese instruments that complement the game's thematic elements during exploration and combat. Critics like CD-Action and Twinfinite emphasized the effectiveness of the sound design and voice acting, which contribute to character immersion and the overall ambiance. Additionally, the music has been described as "glorious" by LevelUp and "sumptuous" by Carole Quintaine, reinforcing the game's epic presentation and emotional depth. The integration of both English and Mandarin voice acting has also been commended, with GINX TV and Wccftech highlighting the authenticity and richness it brings to the characters. However, some critiques have surfaced regarding the sound design and music, indicating areas for improvement. RPG Site pointed out issues with voiceovers, such as a lack of subtitles and untranslated journal entries, which detract from the overall experience. SpazioGames expressed a more lukewarm response, describing the music as adequate but not particularly memorable, suggesting that standout themes are lacking. While many reviewers appreciated the soundtrack's ability to enhance gameplay, some felt that the sound design did not add enough depth to the experience, as noted by SpazioGames. This mixed sentiment suggests that while the audio elements are well-executed, they may not resonate with all players equally. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Black Myth: Wukong excels in its sound design and music, effectively enhancing the immersive experience of the game. The majority of reviewers, including IGN France and RPGamer, acknowledged the soundtrack's ability to complement the gameplay, particularly during critical moments like boss fights. While there are some criticisms regarding the clarity of voiceovers and the memorability of certain musical themes, the overall sentiment leans towards appreciation for the game's audio elements. The integration of cultural aspects into the music and sound design has been highlighted as a significant strength, contributing to the game's rich atmosphere and engaging storytelling.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong's voice acting receives mixed reviews; praised for enhancing atmosphere and character depth, but criticized for poor lip-syncing and localization issues. Critics recommend the original Chinese dub for authenticity, as English performances may lack nuance. Overall, strong character portrayals clash with notable technical flaws, highlighting the need for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Black Myth: Wukong has garnered a range of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's atmosphere and character engagement. CD-Action praised the voice acting as effective, enhancing the overall ambiance of the game. Similarly, GINX TV noted that the voice performances successfully bring characters to life, despite some narrative shortcomings. Critics like Twinfinite and RPG Fan echoed this sentiment, stating that the voice acting in both Chinese and English is outstanding and adds depth to the game’s world, with RPG Fan specifically mentioning how the voice actors match the script well, portraying a variety of personalities that enrich the experience. However, the voice acting has not been without its criticisms. Eurogamer described the supporting cast as unpleasant and poorly lip-synced, which detracts from the overall experience. GameMAG pointed out localization issues, particularly in the English version, where overacted performances and a lack of lip-syncing were highlighted, suggesting that players may benefit from experiencing the original language. Additionally, both Gamepressure and GRYOnline.pl noted that the choice for the protagonist to remain silent could hinder character engagement and narrative depth, which is a significant concern for player immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics presents a mixed view of the voice acting in Black Myth: Wukong. While many reviewers, such as IGN Italia and Shacknews, acknowledged the positive aspects of the performances and their contribution to immersion, there are notable technical issues that detract from the experience, including lip-syncing problems and inconsistent localization. Critics like Wccftech recommended the original Chinese dub for authenticity, indicating that while the English voiceovers are competent, they may not fully capture the essence of the characters. This duality in feedback suggests that while the voice acting has strengths, particularly in character portrayal, the execution and technical aspects leave room for improvement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong shows strong performance on PC and Xbox Series X, with smooth gameplay and quick loading times. However, it suffers from significant technical issues across all platforms, including crashes and frame drops, particularly on PC and PS5. Critics call for urgent post-launch patches to address these problems, as many players may face frustrating setbacks that hinder their gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Black Myth: Wukong across various gaming platforms, it is essential to highlight the positives first. On PC, several critics, including CGMagazine and GameSpot, praised the game for its impressive performance, noting that it runs smoothly without significant technical issues. JeuxActu also commended the PC and PS5 versions for their strong stability and execution of ambitious design. For the PS5, IGN Adria reported that the game runs smoothly in performance mode, with only occasional frame drops, while Shacknews noted a generally smooth experience with few bugs. On Xbox Series X, both GamingBolt and TheXboxHub indicated that the game performs well, maintaining a smooth framerate and quick loading times, which is a positive aspect for players on that platform. However, the technical performance of Black Myth: Wukong is marred by numerous issues across all platforms. On PC, critics like CD-Action and GINX TV pointed out significant performance problems, including crashes, stuttering, and frame drops, particularly during intense gameplay moments. Checkpoint Gaming echoed these concerns with reports of stuttering and freezes, while IGN highlighted numerous technical issues that detract from the overall enjoyment. For the PS5, critics such as Eurogamer Portugal and Power Unlimited noted frequent performance drops and inconsistent graphical quality, which significantly affect the gaming experience. Similarly, Metro GameCentral reported issues with frame rate drops across different graphics modes. The Xbox Series X, while performing better than the other platforms, still faced minor performance hiccups, as noted by GamingBolt. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Black Myth: Wukong presents a mixed bag in terms of technical performance across all platforms. While there are commendable aspects, particularly on PC and Xbox Series X, the game is plagued by various technical issues that detract from the experience. Critics like IGN and PC Gamer emphasized the need for post-launch patches to address these problems, particularly on PC and PS5, where performance issues are more pronounced. The game demands high-end hardware for optimal performance, and while some players may enjoy a relatively smooth experience, many others will likely encounter frustrating technical setbacks that impact immersion and gameplay enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong boasts rich content and a New Game Plus mode that encourage replayability, but critics warn of its limitations—repetitive combat, linear levels, and lack of build diversity could dampen long-term engagement. While initial excitement is high, the game's design may hinder multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Black Myth: Wukong highlight several positive aspects that may entice players to revisit the game. Many critics, including GamingTrend and IGN, emphasize the significant amount of content available, such as numerous bosses, hidden secrets, and optional side quests. The game’s New Game Plus mode, noted by both IGN Italia and PlayStation Universe, adds a layer of replayability by allowing players to face tougher enemies and explore different strategies. Additionally, the customization options and diverse abilities mentioned by PC Gamer and Siliconera encourage experimentation, making the gameplay experience feel fresh upon replaying. However, there are notable criticisms that suggest limitations on the game’s replay value. Several reviewers, including Dot Esports and Eurogamer, point out the lack of build diversity and the repetitive nature of combat, which may deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. The linear level design, highlighted by LevelUp and SpazioGames, restricts exploration and can lead to a sense of monotony over time. Critics like GINX TV and Merlin'in Kazanı also express concerns about the shallow combat system and the frustration of retrying sections, which could diminish long-term engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a blend of enthusiasm for the game’s content and caution regarding its replayability. While many reviewers acknowledge the potential for exploration and the allure of hidden content, they also caution that repetitive gameplay and limited build diversity may hinder the desire for multiple playthroughs. Critics like GameGrin and Guardian argue that the game’s secrets and customization options provide enough incentive for players to return, but the overarching sentiment suggests that while Black Myth: Wukong offers a rich initial experience, its long-term replay value may be compromised by its design choices.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Black Myth: Wukong is largely positive, with many critics highlighting its visually stunning graphics and ambitious design. Reviewers such as IGN and Vgames commend the game for its impressive visuals and engaging combat, noting that it successfully captures the essence of Chinese mythology. The boss battles are particularly praised, with critics like GameSpot and Eurogamer emphasizing their challenge and excitement. Additionally, several reviewers, including RPGamer and PC Gamer, appreciate the game's narrative elements and the unique setting it offers, suggesting that it provides a refreshing experience within the action RPG genre. The game's artistic vision and cultural richness also resonate well with critics, making it a noteworthy debut for the indie studio Game Science. However, Black Myth: Wukong is not without its flaws, as many critics point out several shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Common criticisms include disjointed storytelling, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues. Eurogamer and Metro GameCentral highlight the game's uneven pacing and shallow gameplay mechanics, which can lead to a hollow experience. Critics like SpazioGames and Gamer.no echo these sentiments, mentioning frustrating level design and a lack of navigational tools that hinder exploration. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GINX TV and Hey Poor Player, note that while the combat is engaging, it may not be enough to compensate for the narrative and exploration limitations. The overall consensus among critics suggests that Black Myth: Wukong is an ambitious title with significant potential, though it falls short of being a genre-defining masterpiece. While many appreciate its stunning visuals and captivating boss encounters, there is a clear acknowledgment of its technical and narrative flaws. Critics like Carole Quintaine and GameMAG describe it as an "imperfect masterpiece," indicating that while the game has moments of brilliance, it requires further refinement to fulfill its ambitious vision. Ultimately, Black Myth: Wukong is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of action RPGs and those interested in exploring its rich cultural backdrop, but it also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by indie developers in delivering a polished final product.

TL;DR

Black Myth: Wukong impresses with stunning graphics and engaging combat rooted in Chinese mythology, earning positive reviews for its boss battles and artistic vision. However, it suffers from disjointed storytelling, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues that hinder the experience. While critics label it an "imperfect masterpiece," the game showcases potential but needs refinement to elevate it beyond a solid indie title. Fans of action RPGs and cultural narratives will find value, but it's a bittersweet reminder of indie development challenges.

MONSTER

Reviews

151 reviews found

100

GamingBolt

Aug 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is praised as a fantastic game with engaging combat, rewarding skills system, and excellent production values, making it one of the best action games in 2024.

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100

Guardian

Aug 27, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is a fantastic game that successfully adapts a classic story, offering a rich experience that resonates with players, both in China and globally.

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100

God is a Geek

Aug 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is a fantastic video game and a staggering achievement from an indie studio, offering sublime combat, intuitive level design, and expert boss encounters. It is one of the best action games of the year.

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CGMagazine

Aug 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong sets a new standard in the hardcore action roleplaying genre, offering a must-play experience with its engaging gameplay and compelling narrative.

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JeuxActu

Aug 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Black Myth: Wukong is praised for its rich storytelling, engaging gameplay, and breathtaking visuals, marking it as a significant achievement for a debut title from a small studio.

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Carole Quintaine

PlayStation 5

Sep 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is described as an imperfect masterpiece that offers an irresistible exotic experience despite its flaws.

RPG Fan

Aug 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is an exceptional and accessible game with a strong recommendation for fans of Journey to the West, Asian philosophy, or those looking to broaden their horizons. Despite some issues in the final chapter, the game offers a delightful experience with unique gameplay elements and immersive visuals.

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IGN France

Sep 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is an extraordinary debut from Game Science, with effective gameplay, remarkable visuals, and a captivating story. Despite some minor issues, it is a highly recommended title.

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GameGrin

Sep 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth: Wukong is praised as a fantastic action RPG with great boss battles and memorable characters, making it a worthwhile experience.

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Twinfinite

Aug 16, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Black Myth Wukong impresses with its challenging yet accessible gameplay, stunning visuals, outstanding sound design, and deep RPG systems, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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