The Video Game ‘Black Myth: Wukong’ Has Ancient Roots
The Video Game ‘Black Myth: Wukong’ Has Ancient Roots
The Video Game ‘Black Myth: Wukong’ Has Ancient Roots
Michael Naparstek
October, 1, 2024
Summary
The video game Black Myth: Wukong, based on the Chinese novel Journey to the West, quickly became one of the fastest-selling games of all time, with over 18 million copies sold in its first weeks. The game follows Sun Wukong, the mischievous monkey hero, who battles gods and demons from Chinese religion. It picks up after the novel's story, continuing Sun Wukong’s defiance of divine authority. This modern retelling aligns with a centuries-old tradition of disseminating the tale through various media, from oral storytelling to opera performances. The game introduces players to Chinese mythology, merging ancient religious narratives with interactive gameplay.
Reference
Naparstek, M. (2024, October 1). The video game ‘Black Myth: Wukong’ has ancient roots. Atlas Obscura. https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/black-myth-wukong-story