Black Myth: Wukong and Chinese Mythology: Who is Sun Wukong and What Happened in Journey to the West?

Black Myth: Wukong is a new action game developed by the Chinese studio Game Science. The game is based on the legendary adventures of the Monkey King Sun Wukong, as described in the classic novel "Journey to the West." However, Black Myth: Wukong is not a literal adaptation of the literary source; the developers have added many original elements and interpretations. Before diving into the game, it is useful to familiarize yourself with the history of "Journey to the West," its key characters, and the significance of Sun Wukong in Chinese mythology. Understanding these aspects will enrich the gaming experience and allow you to better appreciate the uniqueness of the project.

This article is dedicated to answering these questions.

Sun Wukong, also known as Sun Wukong (Chinese spelling: Sūn Wùkōng), is one of the most famous characters in Chinese mythology and is a trickster deity. Possessing incredible abilities, Sun Wukong displays superhuman strength and the ability to control natural elements such as wind, fire, and water. He is also trained in 72 different transformations, which do not always involve a physical transformation of his body, but each of these transformations grants him new magical skills. Sun Wukong symbolizes wisdom and cunning, making him an important figure in Chinese folklore and culture. Sun Wukong, or the Monkey King, is known for his immortal nature and colossal power. However, his path to these abilities was long and arduous. From the moment of his birth, he did not possess the gift of eternal life and was unaware of his famous transformations. How did he acquire such powers and skills? The answer lies in the myths and legends described in the classic Chinese novel, Journey to the West. This text reveals the secrets of his transformation and formation, allowing us to better understand how Sun Wukong achieved his power and immortality.

Illustration for the novel "Journey to the West", Made in the 19th centuryImage: Public Domain

Journey to the West is a captivating narrative about the adventures of a group of characters who unite around the monk Xuanzang. This monk travels from China to India in order to collect Buddhist sutras - sacred texts containing the teachings of Buddha. In his company are interesting companions: the disciple Sha Seng, the pig-man Zhu Bajie, known for his gluttony, a white dragon who has taken the form of a horse, and the monkey king Sun Wukong. Each of these characters brings their own unique dynamics to the journey, enriching the plot and emphasizing themes of friendship, loyalty, and the search for wisdom. This work not only captures the spirit of adventure, but also serves as a profound source of philosophical reflection on life and the path to enlightenment.

Sun Wukong remains the central character throughout the story, while Xuanzang and his companions occupy supporting positions in the plot. Throughout their journey, the characters encounter dangerous enemies and find themselves in seemingly impossible situations, but they always overcome their challenges, thanks in large part to the Monkey King's magical abilities. This dynamic story demonstrates how courage and friendship can help overcome any challenge, making the story relevant and inspiring for readers of all ages. By the time he begins his journey to the West, Sun Wukong is already a powerful being. The story of how he gained his power is detailed in the novel. Wukong was born from a magical stone located on the Mountain of Flowers and Fruits. Descending from this mountain and exploring the forests at its foot, he met other monkeys and chose to stay with them, beginning a new life among his kind.

While playing on the banks of a mountain river, the monkeys came across a waterfall and became curious about what lay beyond its torrents. They decided that the bravest person who could pass through the falling water and return unharmed would be recognized as their leader. Sun Wukong, displaying courage, volunteered first—thus earning the title of Monkey King.

Sun Wukong, preoccupied with the thought of aging and death, decided to strive for immortality. He set out to find a master who could reveal the secrets of eternal life and soon encountered a wise Taoist monk. Sun Wukong became his disciple and received training not only in the art of immortality but also in magic, which included 72 unique transformations. These skills allowed him, among other things, to breathe fire, dry up rivers, and control the wind. Thus, the Monkey King gained much more than he originally sought, enriching his abilities and expanding the horizons of his existence.

Frame: TV series "Journey to the West" / TVB

Frame: TV series “Journey to the West” / TVB

Frame: TV series "Journey to the West" / TVB

Having acquired immortality, immense strength, and magical abilities, Sun Wukong began to enjoy his trickster nature and display a cocky, almost childish character. He toyed with the gods and played pranks, attracting the attention of the Sea Dragon King. His daring invasion convinced the king to provide him with powerful weapons and unique equipment. He eventually emerged from the underwater realm in magical robes, armed with an eight-ton staff that could shrink to the size of a needle. This legendary staff was kept in his ear, adding even more mystery to his image. Sun Wukong, known as the Monkey King, visited both the underworld and heaven. In hell, he tricked the local rulers into returning him to the world of the living and erased his name, along with those of the other monkeys with whom he once lived at the foot of the Mountain of Flowers and Fruits, from the Book of the Dead. In heaven, Sun Wukong incurred the wrath of the supreme deity of the Taoist pantheon, Yudi, also known as the Jade Emperor. First, he barged into a private party without an invitation, then ate all the peaches in the imperial garden. Yudi sent his army after Sun Wukong, but was unable to defeat the Monkey King. Only Buddha was able to stop him, imprisoning the trickster under a mountain for 500 years. This event became an important moment in mythology, highlighting Sun Wukong's strength and audacity, as well as his difficult fate.

The monk Xuanzang freed the Monkey King Sun Wukong from captivity and took him with him on a journey to the West. Sun Wukong, possessing incredible strength and abilities, was to become the monk's protector from any enemies. However, he initially showed willfulness and even refused the offer. Ultimately, under pressure from circumstances and having no other choice, he agreed to the journey.

The journey proved to be difficult: Sun Wukong often caused Xuanzang no small amount of trouble. Fortunately, the monk possessed a magical crown that allowed him to control the Monkey King's behavior when he displayed his worst traits.

As he progressed toward his goal, Sun Wukong underwent significant changes. He shed his greed, self-love, and malice, achieving enlightenment and becoming a positive hero. This transformation process became a crucial part of their journey, highlighting themes of friendship, self-discovery, and spiritual growth.

Screenshot: Still from the 2011 Chinese TV series "Journey to the West"

Black Myth: Wukong is based on the classic novel "Journey to the West." The developers emphasize that the game's plot is their unique vision, not a literal adaptation of the novel. It's important to note that neither the trailers nor the official materials refer to the protagonist of Black Myth: Wukong as Sun Wukong, although his appearance clearly resembles the monkey king. This character has been depicted numerous times in various illustrations, as well as in films and TV series based on this famous work. Players can expect a captivating interpretation of a familiar story, filled with dynamic action and exciting gameplay elements.

The game's protagonist is called the Chosen One. He possesses unique abilities similar to those of Sun Wukong and uses a staff that can shrink to the size of a needle. This staff, like that of the Monkey King from the classic story, is kept in the character's ear. According to information on the Steam platform, the Chosen One will explore various locations, including those described in Journey to the West. The name Wukong also hints at a connection to Sun Wukong, but in the game, the Chosen One is the main figure, creating an atmosphere of mystery around him. This emphasizes the character's uniqueness and special role in the plot, making the game intriguing for fans of the genre and lovers of mythology.

Questions about the identity of the game's protagonist are becoming increasingly pressing thanks to numerous trailer analyses on YouTube. In one video, a blogger specializing in Chinese dramas and films points out an interesting detail: one of the enemies, addressing the Chosen One, says in surprise, "Hmm, another monkey." This suggests that a similar character may have visited these locations before the Chosen One. Such details raise numerous questions about the plot and the development of events in the game, causing fans to search for answers and theorize. The plot develops even more grippingly. A key detail stands out in the analysis: after the battle with a formidable enemy, a cutscene begins in which the Chosen One attempts to deliver the finishing blow to the defeated opponent. However, at the last moment, a character blocks the blow, and we see a staff that has become an obstacle to the attack. This staff bears the characters that form the name of the original "Wish-Granting Staff with Golden Hoops," which Sun Wukong acquired after breaking into the chambers of the Sea Dragon King. As the camera pans up, we see the wielder of this powerful weapon—an armored ape who looks virtually identical to the Chosen One.

Who is this—the real Sun Wukong or the Chosen One? Screenshot: Black Myth: Wukong / Game Science

There are many theories regarding this topic. Each offers a unique perspective on the issue and can be considered in the context of various aspects. Discussing these theories helps to gain a deeper understanding of the subject and identify potential avenues for further research. This diversity of approaches contributes to a more complete understanding of the issue and opens up new horizons for study.

One of them is that Black Myth: Wukong is a direct sequel to the novel "Journey to the West", telling the story of the second journey undertaken by the double of Sun Wukong.
Another theory explains the existence of the double: in the novel there is an episode in which Sun Wukong meets a monkey, an exact resemblance to himself, and then the protagonist has to prove to others that he is the real Sun Wukong.
Another theory suggests that the real Sun Wukong died for some reason (or faked his death), and the double decided to appropriate the glory for himself - these attempts of his may be dedicated to the game.
There is also a high probability that the words Black Myth, that is, "black myth", play a key role in the plot - and hint that Wukong will tell a darker version of the story told in Journey to the West.

A precise understanding of these theories will become possible after completing the game Black Myth: Wukong.

In this artwork, the Chosen One is wearing a steel headband—an obvious reference to the magical crown used by the monk Xuanzang to control the wayward Sun Wukong. Image: Game Science

The story of the Monkey King Sun Wukong is a central element of Chinese mythology and plays a prominent role in Black Myth: Wukong. The game features numerous locations, enemies, and creatures inspired by ancient legends and tales. A full immersion into the action game's mythological underpinnings can be achieved after completing the game, allowing for a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical roots of the work.

Black Myth: Wukong was released on August 20, 2024, on PC and console platforms. Based on Chinese mythology, this game attracted the attention of players with its breathtaking graphics and innovative gameplay. In Black Myth: Wukong, players will be immersed in a world filled with mythical creatures and epic battles. The game promises to be one of the most anticipated new titles in the action RPG genre, offering players a unique experience and a rich storyline.