Beyond Wukong: What Game Science’s Next Project Means for the Future of Action RPGs
Game Science, the studio behind the critically acclaimed Black Myth: Wukong, is already teasing its next project, Black Myth: Zhong Kui. A recent Lunar New Year trailer, though described as “non-canon and for entertainment purposes only,” has ignited excitement and speculation about the future of the series and the broader action RPG landscape. While a release date remains distant – potentially even awaiting the arrival of the PS6 – the glimpses offered suggest a studio pushing boundaries and raising the bar for visual fidelity and gameplay ambition.
The Meteoric Rise of Black Myth: Wukong and its Impact
Black Myth: Wukong wasn’t just a success. it was a phenomenon. Released in August 2024 for PlayStation 5 and Windows, and later for Xbox Series X/S in August 2025, the game sold 20 million units in its first month, becoming one of the fastest-selling games ever. This success is largely attributed to its stunning visuals, powered by Unreal Engine 5, and its challenging, Souls-like combat. The game’s foundation in the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West as well resonated with a broad audience, proving the appeal of culturally rich narratives in the global gaming market.
Zhong Kui: A Tech Demo Hinting at Future Innovations
The trailer for Black Myth: Zhong Kui, despite being non-canon, showcases a significant leap in graphical detail and environmental complexity. The scene, centered around cooking, is remarkably detailed, with realistic steam effects and intricate character interactions. This suggests Game Science is not resting on its laurels and is actively exploring new technologies and techniques to enhance immersion. The studio is clearly “stepping up its efforts” following the success of Wukong.
The Potential for Console Exclusivity and Generational Leaps
While not officially announced for consoles yet, industry observers anticipate Black Myth: Zhong Kui will likely appear on PlayStation platforms. The comment that we “may all be playing on the PS6 by the time it releases” highlights the potential for the game to be a showcase title for next-generation hardware. This raises questions about the future of console exclusivity, with developers increasingly leveraging platform partnerships to optimize performance and deliver unique experiences.
The Growing Appeal of Chinese Mythology in Gaming
Both Black Myth: Wukong and Zhong Kui draw heavily from Chinese mythology. This represents a growing trend in the gaming industry, as developers seek to diversify their narratives and tap into new cultural influences. The success of Wukong demonstrates a clear appetite for stories rooted in non-Western traditions, opening doors for other developers to explore similar themes.
The “Souls-like” Evolution: What’s Next for Challenging Action RPGs?
Black Myth: Wukong incorporates elements of the “Souls-like” subgenre, known for its challenging combat and emphasis on player skill. Zhong Kui is expected to continue this trend, potentially refining the formula and introducing new mechanics. The future of this subgenre likely involves a greater focus on accessibility without sacrificing the core challenge, as well as innovative approaches to storytelling and world-building.
FAQ
Q: Is Black Myth: Zhong Kui confirmed for Xbox?
A: While Black Myth: Wukong was eventually released on Xbox Series X/S, Zhong Kui has not yet been officially announced for any console platforms.
Q: What is the significance of the “non-canon” label for the Zhong Kui trailer?
A: The “non-canon” label indicates that the content shown in the trailer is primarily a technical demonstration and may not accurately reflect the final game’s story or features.
Q: What engine is Black Myth: Zhong Kui being developed on?
A: Both Black Myth: Wukong and Zhong Kui are being developed using Unreal Engine 5.
What are your expectations for Black Myth: Zhong Kui? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
