After a four-year wait since its 2020 announcement, Black Myth: Wukong is finally here, and early impressions are pouring in! Read on for a summary of the reviews and the controversy surrounding them.
Black Myth: Wukong: Almost Here (But Only on PC for Now)
Since its captivating debut trailer in 2020, Black Myth: Wukong has generated immense hype. Initial critical reception is largely positive, with the game boasting an 82 Metascore on Metacritic based on 54 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise the game's exceptional action gameplay. Precise, engaging combat and brilliantly designed boss fights are highlighted as key strengths. Stunning visuals and a richly detailed world brimming with secrets further enhance the experience.
The game's foundation in Chinese mythology, specifically Journey to the West, is also lauded. GamesRadar+, for example, describes it as "a fun action RPG that feels like the modern God of War games viewed through the lens of Chinese mythology."
However, PCGamesN, while calling it a potential Game of the Year contender, points out potential drawbacks shared by other reviews: subpar level design, uneven difficulty, and occasional technical glitches. The narrative, similar to older FromSoftware titles, is described as fragmented, requiring players to piece together the story through item descriptions. Importantly, all early access reviews are based on the PC version; console performance remains unreviewed.
Controversial Review Guidelines Surface
Over the weekend, reports emerged of a controversial document distributed by one of Black Myth: Wukong's co-publishers to reviewers and streamers. This document reportedly outlined "Do's and Don'ts," restricting discussion of topics including "violence, nudity, feminist propaganda, fetishization, and other content that instigates negative discourse."
This has sparked heated debate online. One Twitter (X) user commented, "It is WILD to me that this actually made it out the door. These guidelines had to have gone past multiple people/departments. Also, creators casually signing this and not speaking up is just as wild, unfortunately just less surprising.." Others, however, expressed no concern.
Despite this controversy, Black Myth: Wukong remains highly anticipated. It currently holds the top spot as both the best-selling and most wishlisted game on Steam before its official release. While the lack of console reviews presents a reservation, the game is poised for a significant launch.
