Black Myth: Wukong Early Impressions Are Out Amid Review Guidelines Controversy

After a four-year wait since its 2020 announcement, Black Myth: Wukong is finally here, and early reviews are in! Read on for a summary of the critical response and some noteworthy controversy.

Black Myth: Wukong: Almost Here (But Only on PC for Now)

Since its debut trailer in 2020, Black Myth: Wukong has generated considerable hype, and initial reviews are largely positive. The game currently boasts an 82 Metascore on Metacritic, based on 54 critic reviews.

Reviewers praise the game's exceptional action gameplay, emphasizing its precise and engaging combat system, complemented by brilliantly designed boss fights. The stunning visuals and hidden secrets within its beautiful world also receive high marks. Drawing inspiration from Chinese mythology, specifically Journey to the West, the game's interpretation of Sun Wukong's adventures is widely lauded. GamesRadar+, for example, described it as "a fun action RPG that feels like the modern God of War games viewed through the lens of Chinese mythology."

However, PCGamesN's review, while highlighting its Game of the Year potential, also points out potential drawbacks shared by other reviews: subpar level design, difficulty spikes, and occasional technical issues. The narrative, similar to older FromSoftware titles, is considered somewhat disjointed, requiring players to delve into item descriptions for a complete understanding. Importantly, all early access review copies were for PC; console performance (specifically on PS5) 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 streamers and reviewers. This document allegedly outlined "Do's and Don'ts," prohibiting discussion of topics including "violence, nudity, feminist propaganda, fetishization, and other content that instigates negative discourse."

This has sparked significant debate within the gaming community. While some criticize the guidelines as overly restrictive, others express no concern. One Twitter (now 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.."

Despite this controversy, Black Myth: Wukong remains highly anticipated. Steam sales data shows it currently holds the top spot as both the best-selling and most wishlisted game before its release. While the lack of console reviews presents some uncertainty, the game appears poised for a major launch.