Experience Black Myth: Wukong – Beautiful But Also Challenging

Black Myth: Wukong Review – An Action Game of Epic Ambitions and Frustrations

Black Myth: Wukong is a game that impresses and infuriates in equal measure. As one of the most ambitious action games I’ve encountered, it dazzles with its stunning visuals, exhilarating combat, and a unique setting deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Despite its many strengths, it’s marred by significant technical issues that undermine its overall experience.

Visuals and Setting: 

Set in the city of Orléans, Black Myth: Wukong showcases breathtaking graphics that make it one of the most visually captivating games available. The environments are richly detailed, from the intricate textures of the forest to the dynamic snowfall. The animation is equally impressive, featuring fluid movements and engaging battle scenes. The game’s art style also includes beautiful animated vignettes that highlight the story’s antagonists in various artistic forms, such as storybook illustrations and stop-motion animation.

Gameplay and Combat: 

The combat in Black Myth: Wukong is where the game truly shines. It features a sophisticated balance of fast-paced action and tactical resource management. Players control The Destined One, a monkey on a quest to find the six relics of Wukong. The combat system is reminiscent of traditional action games like those from PlatinumGames rather than the Soulslike genre. While it lacks some of the punishing mechanics typical of Soulslike games, it remains challenging and deeply satisfying. 

Players must manage a Focus Meter to execute powerful attacks and utilize a variety of spells and transformations. These elements combine to create a diverse combat experience, offering different strategies for each encounter. The game’s boss battles are particularly noteworthy, providing some of the most exhilarating moments in the game.

Technical Issues: 

Unfortunately, Black Myth: Wukong is plagued by several technical problems. The PC version suffers from frequent crashes, graphical glitches, and audio issues that detract from the overall experience. Issues like characters randomly switching languages, dialogue audio dropping out, and clipping through the ground during critical moments can be frustrating. These technical shortcomings are significant enough to impact gameplay, especially when they occur during key moments such as challenging boss fights.

Impressive 3D character design

Story and Exploration: 

The game’s story draws from the classic novel “Journey to the West,” but it can be confusing for players unfamiliar with the source material. The narrative’s depth is hindered by a mute protagonist and underdeveloped side characters. While the game features intriguing story elements and beautifully crafted animated vignettes, it often feels disjointed and reliant on prior knowledge of the novel.

      Build multiple storylines with impressive details

Exploration in Black Myth: Wukong is rewarding but could benefit from better navigational aids. The lack of a map and occasional unclear barriers can make exploration cumbersome, although the rewards for discovery are significant, including rare items and secret boss fights.

Verdict: 

Black Myth: Wukong is an impressive debut action game from GameScience, with a striking visual style and a compelling combat system. Despite its technical issues and some localization problems, the game’s strengths in combat and visual storytelling make it a worthwhile experience. If GameScience can address the bugs and enhance the game’s polish, Black Myth: Wukong has the potential to become a standout title in the action genre.