Black Myth: Wukong

Gameplay
Black Myth: Wukong is a Soulslike action RPG with fluid, acrobatic combat. As the Destined One, you wield a staff, shape-shifting abilities, and spells to battle mythical beasts. The combat is precise and exhilarating, with varied movesets and boss fights that demand strategy. Exploration feels linear, and some areas are repetitive, but the fast-paced action and deep skill progression keep you hooked. The difficulty can be brutal, occasionally feeling unfair.

Story
Rooted in Journey to the West, the narrative follows the Destined One in a mythical China. The lore is rich, with bosses tied to Chinese mythology, but the storytelling is fragmented, relying on environmental clues and brief cutscenes. While the cultural depth is captivating, the lack of a cohesive plot can leave players wanting more clarity.

Visuals
The visuals are a masterpiece, with lush forests, crumbling temples, and grotesque creatures rendered in stunning detail. Every environment feels alive, with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Boss animations are spectacular, though minor texture pop-ins can distract. The art direction is a love letter to Chinese mythology.

Sound
The soundtrack, blending traditional Chinese instruments like erhu with epic orchestral tracks, is haunting and immersive. Combat sound effects are visceral, and ambient sounds, like rustling bamboo or demonic roars, enhance the atmosphere. Voice acting is sparse but effective, with subtitles carrying most of the narrative weight.

Overall Experience
Black Myth: Wukong is a visually stunning, ambitious debut that excels in combat and atmosphere but stumbles with a fragmented story and linear exploration. Its cultural richness and thrilling battles make it a standout, perfect for Soulslike fans and those craving a mythological epic. Score: 9.5/10