Black Myth: Wukong | Currently the Most Wishlisted Steam Game
🎮 What is so amazing about this upcoming game from the fairly unknown Chinese developer 'Game Science'? Release: August 20, 2024
This highly anticipated title is currently sitting as the #1 most wishlisted game on Steam. Let’s explore why!
When I first heard about it about a year ago, I thought: "Oh no, not another Soulslike!” Then, I forgot about it for a while. However, just recently, I watched a video in which Games Radar played a demo version, where they made it very clear that this is not a typical Souls game!
The Wukong demo felt more like a modern God of War Game rather than Dark Souls. It may be one of the best action RPGs.
Games Radar
Even the developer, Game Science, clearly states that the game is an action-adventure with RPG elements.
It's not that I dislike any Dark Souls-type game, but I got tired of unforgiving death mechanics that frustrate me, along with the sense of repetitive failure.
Black Myth Wukong will be different with the following main characteristics:
linear level design
a skill tree (you can reset it at any time)
color-coded rare gear/items
one main weapon (a staff)
mostly dodging, parrying is rare
Wukong obviously still has a few typical Dark Souls elements, like lots of boss fights, checkpoints, etc.
Will It Be Awesome?
The reviewers who played the demo say that the graphics are truly breathtaking, with a gorgeous level of detail, superbly animated giant bosses, and no framerate drops at all. And the gameplay footage looks stunning, in my opinion.
💡 Check it out for yourself. I put a link to the gameplay video at the end of this article.
Gameplay: Combat seems truly exciting and rewarding. You use a staff with many tricks, and the fights feel fresh and fun. The game does not rely on heavy attacks; instead, it uses charged attacks and combo breakers, which add depth to the fighting mechanics.
The demo reviewers also loved the magic system: You have four spell slots and can use different spells, like immobilizing enemies or transforming into a powerful creature. These spells add variety to combat and strategy.
Summary: Fantastic graphics, engaging combat, and a unique fantasy world setting.
Release Date
Black Myth: Wukong is set to release in summer 2024. The game will be available on PC, and PlayStation. Xbox owners need to wait a little longer.
Release PC (Steam) and PS5: August 20, 2024
Release Xbox S/X: Later in 2024
The first gameplay footage was shown in August 2020 in a YouTube video, and it amazed many people.
Story
The story of Black Myth: Wukong is based on the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West." You play as Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. He has many magical powers and can change into different forms. The game follows his adventures as he fights monsters and gods.
Good to know: You can customize the appearance with an editor at the start of the game.
Gameplay
Black Myth: Wukong is an action RPG. You fight using different weapons and magic spells. The game has many enemies, including huge bosses. The level design is linear, but you can still explore and find hidden secrets. The combat is fast and needs quick thinking.
What's Special?
Black Myth: Wukong stands out because of its amazing graphics and detailed world. The game looks almost real. It also has a rich story inspired by Chinese culture.
It has some refreshing and curious quirks of Chinese mythology, like shape-shifting shenanigans where you turn yourself into a peach.
The developers, Game Science Studio, have created a game that is now #1 on the official Steam wishlist.
Developer/Publisher
Game Science Studio is the developer behind Black Myth: Wukong. They are a fairly unknown Chinese game studio. Before this, they made games like "Art of War: Red Tides." which received mixed reviews on Steam but was still liked by many players for its good design and fun gameplay.
Black Myth: Wukong is their most ambitious project yet, aiming to reach a global audience
What I Really Think
While I am a little skeptical because of the hype, I'm still looking forward to this title. This is mainly because of the incredible attention to detail they have put into it. The variety of magic, impressive characters, and enemy/boss design are particularly exciting.
Additionally, I think the dodging-only tactic when fighting bosses suits my playstyle. At my age, varying between dodging and parrying can get a little difficult at times 👴
The only reason I'll probably hesitate to buy it on release day is the hefty price tag of $60. I know that’s typical for an AAA game, but it still significantly impacts my buying decision.
Best Gameplay Videos
I am aware that this video is in German. However, in my opinion, it shows the most stunning boss fights from the demo version. I highly recommend watching those breathtaking scenes.
Here is a version in English from Games Radar:
What do you think about Black Myth: Wukong? Are you as excited as I am? Please let me know in the comments.
Thank you for reading,
Michael