Black Myth: Wukong - History through a Modern Classic
Publisher: Game Science Developer: Game Science
Table of Content
Preface
Black Myth: Wukong is a video game developed by Game Science and is inspired by the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West” (JTTW hereafter) written by the scholar Wu Cheng’en (吴承恩), a novelist and poet of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644, 16 Century). JTTW is believed to be based on a true story following the historical pilgrimage of the Buddhist monk Master Xuanzang, c. 596–664 (玄奘法师 ) and his four non-human companions to India to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures during the Tang dynasty era (618–907).
The title “Black Myth” was adopted to explore the dark themes of Chinese mythology with “Wukong” (Sun Wukong) being the common denominator bridging the game and the novel. The game is a fictionalised version of the historical pilgrimage with its core story line based on the JTTW novel.
Journey To The West at a Glance
Before delving into “Black Myth: Wukong– Exploring a Modern Classic”, one must know the general backstory of JTTW.JTTW is a mixture of religious, myth and folklore elements and is believed to be written within the social construct of the Ming dynasty era. Many are of the opinion that the 100-chapter novel historical basis is of the true life pilgrimage of the monk Master Xuanzang (c. 596–664) to India and has been a popular subject for storytellers since the late Tang dynasty.
The fictionalised pilgrimage depicted in JTTW follows Master Xuanzang, who is accompanied by four nonhuman disciples: Monkey, Pigsy, Sandy, and Dragon Horse. The four disciples have been expelled by the Daoist Celestial Court (i.e. Heaven) due to misbehaviour but will be accepted by the Bodhisattva Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy) into Buddhism on condition that they promise to assist Master Xuanzang’s pilgrimage.
It has been believed that before Master Xuanzang and his companions could successfully reach the Buddha, they had to go through 81 challenges or tribulations (八十一难) during their journey. These tribulations are tests of their resolve, faith, and character, designed to purify them and help them achieve spiritual enlightenment (Buddhism). Most of the tribulations feature encounters with demons, monsters, and other supernatural beings, some whom appear in the game.
Black Myth: Wukong at a Glance
The game itself begins after Sun Wukong had finished the JTTW with his master and comrades and was awarded with Buddhahood. However, Wukong rejected this status upon realising the lack of freedom the title had. Heaven distrusted Wukong, viewing him as unpredictable and a potential danger to the Court, and so many monkeys on Mount Huaguo were killed in an attempt to coerce Wukong back into his heavenly title.
Angered, Wukong confronted the celestial army led by Erlang Shen. He dueled with Erlang and both were evenly matched, but due to Guanyin's Golden Headband still bound to Wukong, it cost him the fight causing him to be sealed in a stone atop Mount Huaguo by Erlang. Right before he is sealed, Sun Wukong manages to split his power into six Relics (one for each of his senses) scattered all across China, each being held by his former enemies. The Destined One, who represents Wukong's mind, will then go on a journey to recover said relics and reincarnate as the new Sun Wukong; as his one true successor.
This blog will contain minor spoilers, so if you have not played the game, we encourage you complete before reading. If you are here for the history and the culture, then we hope you enjoy this article.
Cultural Significance of Black Myth: Wukong
Black Myth: Wukong explores Chinese mythology and Buddhist folklore during the search for sacred religious texts.
Each chapter of Black Myth: Wukong concludes with an animated cutscene providing a reflection and exploration of the narrative and thematic elements. The first three cutscenes resonate with Chinese philosophy. The first three chapters are deep-rooted in Daoist, Confucian & Buddhist philosophies, exploring the theme of spiritual enlightenment or transformation, morality and the nature of human existence through Wukong’s journey and trials –hence the conclusion of each chapter with an animated cutscene retelling of JTTW.
The fourth cutscene relates to love, while the fifth cutscene relates to grief and anger. The final cutscene serves as a flashback depicting some of the events, played in a chronological reverse order from the JTTW.
History
Ming Dynasty
The chapter on the Ming in Patricia Ebrey’s Cambridge Illustrated History of China offers a distinct depiction of Ming society. Reading this book will help you understand the hierarchical structure of the court of the Ming government onto that of the Celestial Court.
Another important factor to consider is how Ming dynasty is referred as a “golden age” due to its economic and cultural expansion, believing to be one of the wealthiest and prosperous eras in China’s history. This links to the syncretism of the three major teachings of traditional China, namely Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, culminated when Ming General and statesman Wang Yangming’s (1472–1529) teaching of “learning of the mind” became popularised in the empire. Inspired by Chan (Japanese, Zen) Buddhist philosophy, Wang accentuated that a true understanding of the essence of morality can only be achieved through cultivating one’s own mind, which means persistent personal enactment of moral principles.
Celestial Court
Now, you are probably wandering, what is the Celestial Court?
The Celestial Court is the dwelling place of gods and immortals in Chinese mythology, representing power, mystery, religious and philosophical connotations. In JTTW, the Celestial Court is a gathering place for numerous deities and immortals, symbolising heavenly mandate and order. The design of the Celestial Court in the game showcases ancient architectural styles, enhancing the cultural atmosphere. Through missions in the Celestial Court, players can experience the depth and complexity of mythological stories. Black Myth: Wukong vividly depicts the lived religious experience of Ming dynasty officials.
Locations & Architecture
Game Science introduces cultural and natural scenery derived from real world Chinese locations. The game features several, to name a few, locations from Shanxi Province such as the Yungang Grottoes, Little Western Paradise, Nanchan Temple, Iron Buddha Temple, Guangsheng Temple, and Stork Tower, as well as locations from other provinces, such as the Kaiyuan Temple in Fujian Province, and the Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing.
A few examples of real life locations used in the game can be seen below.
1. In the game, the Black Bear Guai and the Destined One fight near a pagoda based on the Kaiyuan Temple's twin pagodas in Quanzhou, Fujian.
2. The battle between Erlang Shen and the Destined One happens near a building based on the Wulong Temple in Langzhong.
3. Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻) in Chongqing.
4. In a trailer, a battle between the Destined One and Kang-Jin Loong occurs near a building based on the Dule Temple in Tianjin.
Clothing
The game also features traditional Chinese clothing styles, particularly Hanfu, which includes garments, headwear, footwear, and jewellery distinctive to various historical periods. Each attire piece is meticulously designed, reflecting historical accuracy and cultural significance. From the flowing robes of scholars to the ornate armours of warriors, the clothing adds layers of authenticity and immersion to the game, allowing players to delve deeper into an epoch rich with history and tradition.
One of the notable historical piece seen in the opening of the game and thereafter is the Monkey King’s Armour Set “The Golden Feng Tail Crown” headgear. Also known as the Lingzi (翎子) or Zhiling (雉翎).
The headgear can be seen in Sichuan Opera dating back to the end of Ming Dynasty and beginning of Qing Dynasty. The Golden Feng Tail Crown or Lingzi is a long pheasant tail feathers attached to the headgear, serving as either a decorative element and a means of expressing status and martial art skills or historically serving as identifiers in a battlefield, similar to those of plumes or crests on Greek/Roman helms.
Military headwear with feathers have been depicted as far back as the Han Dynasty with the length of the feathers indicated the rank of the warrior.
Another notable historical reference piece is the Folk Opera Armour Set. Folk Opera is a rich tradition of music, dance, and storytelling that evolved from folk songs and dances, incorporating elements of martial arts and acrobatics.
Sun Wukong is often associated with martial arts, particularly through styles like Tai Shing (Great Sage Style) and Monkey Kung Fu, which draw inspiration from his acrobatic and powerful fighting style. This fighting style is emulated in-game with martial arts styles or techniques such as staff spins and strikes. Furthermore, Sun Wukong is famously known for his mastery of the staff which is also emulated in game with the Destined One's handy staff.
Final Thoughts
Black Myth: Wukong is a compelling story following the journey of a classic tale. Steeped in historical fiction with heavy inspirations from JTTW, we can see the reflection and exploration of Chinese mythology, traditions and teachings of Buddhism and Taoism. With a concise retelling of a traditional story, Black Myth: Wukong is a perfect entertainment medium to explore the rich history of Chinese culture.
