While Black Myth Wukong may be an original game, its main character is not a new concept. In fact, Sun Wukong, the titular character, is a well-known and highly esteemed figure in Chinese mythology. Throughout the action-adventure, we see numerous references to his legendary powers.
Prior to delving into the character’s abilities, it is crucial to examine the extensive and eventful life of Sun Wukong, also referred to as the Monkey King.
In the tale Journey to The West, Sun Wukong is depicted as a legendary monkey who emerges from a stone. Driven by the fear of death, he gains extraordinary abilities and pursues immortality. However, he later defies the heavens and engages in a battle that ultimately results in his imprisonment beneath a mountain by the Buddha.
The monk Xuanzang rescues him and he sets off on his quest to obtain Buddhist sutras from “the West,”thus giving the myth its title, Journey to The West.
During his journey, Sun Wukong obtains a multitude of new abilities. He attains immortality by consuming the peach of immortality and also acquires the power of shapeshifting, freezing enemies, and a plethora of other abilities that render him incredibly formidable.
Still, trying to immediately possess all of Sun Wukong’s abilities by playing a game such as Black Myth: Wukong would make it too simplistic. Although the game’s initial scene showcases his ultimate might, it quickly reverts to starting from the beginning.
Therefore, how is Sun Wukong’s prowess depicted in the game?
In what ways are Sun Wukong’s powers portrayed in Black Myth: Wukong?
The Destined One’s first cutscene features him transforming into a Peach, a nod to the Peach of Immortality that he stole in the beginning of the Journey to the West novel. This act was driven by his fear of death and desire to achieve immortality.
In the opening cutscene, he breaks free from the illusion and defeats two ravenous Yaoguai attempting to attack him. Therefore, instead of simply paying tribute, the Chosen One cleverly uses it as a lure, catching his enemies off guard and causing them to lower their defenses.
Regarding shapeshifting, the book depicts Sun Wukong possessing the power of Shen Wai Shen Fa, which can be translated as Body Outside of Body. This enables the Chosen One to change each of his hairs into a different form, creating duplicates of himself or transforming into various alternate forms at will.
In Black Myth Wukong, Transformations are a major gameplay element, along with the A Pluck of Many spell which allows the Destined One to clone themselves, and the ability to transform into defeated enemies through Spirits. The game also features a useful spell called Immobilize as the player’s first ability, which is based on the original story and proves to be crucial in battles.
Sun Wukong’s Body Freezing Spell is a highly advantageous power in the story. By uttering a single syllable and making a simple gesture, he is able to render his opponents immobile. This technique is frequently employed on minor demons and monsters, but it is just as effective when used on bosses by players in the game.
In addition to having the ability to Immobilize, the character is also capable of performing a form of cloud jumping, much like Sun Wukong. While it may not involve jumping through literal clouds, the Cloud Step spell allows players to turn invisible, leaving behind a clone on the battlefield, and swiftly move through the air to deliver a powerful strike to their opponent.
In addition to his numerous spells, shapeshifting abilities, and powers, Sun Wukong is also known for his weapon, which is inseparable from his identity.
Ruyi Jingu Bang, also referred to as his main weapon, is one of the mystical pillars located within the palace of Ao Guang in the famous Chinese novel Journey to the West.
There are several instances in the game where the Destined One is seen pulling his weapon from his ear and spinning it in preparation for combat, showcasing the implementation of this design. Additionally, players can utilize various Stances which feature the staff elongating, the Monkey King balancing, and powerful strikes being delivered.
Ultimately, Black Myth: Wukong draws heavily from Journey to the West and well-known Chinese mythology. Both versions of Sun Wukong prominently feature his most notable abilities, such as his immortality (as seen through respawning), longevity potions and pills, and various spells.
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