Black Myth: Wukong Early Impressions Are Out Amid Review Guidelines Controversy

After a four-year wait since its 2020 announcement, Black Myth: Wukong has finally arrived, and initial reviews are in! This article delves into the critical reception and a recent controversy surrounding review guidelines.

Black Myth: Wukong is Almost Here (PC Only, for Now)

Since its debut trailer in 2020, Black Myth: Wukong has generated considerable buzz. Currently boasting an 82 Metascore on Metacritic (based on 54 critic reviews), the game has largely received positive feedback.

Reviewers praise the game's exceptional action gameplay, emphasizing its precise and engaging combat system, complemented by brilliantly designed boss encounters. The stunning visuals and hidden secrets within its captivating world are also frequently highlighted.

The game's foundation in Chinese mythology, specifically Journey to the West, is well-received. GamesRadar+, for example, described it as "a fun action RPG that feels like the modern God of War games viewed through the lens of Chinese mythology."

However, PCGamesN's review, while acknowledging its GOTY potential, points out potential drawbacks shared by other reviews: subpar level design, difficulty spikes, and occasional technical glitches. The narrative's fragmented nature, similar to older FromSoftware titles, requiring players to piece together the story through item descriptions, is also noted.

Importantly, all early access review copies were for PC. Console performance, particularly on PS5, remains unreviewed.

Controversy Surrounds Review Guidelines

Reports emerged over the weekend alleging that a co-publisher distributed a document to streamers and reviewers outlining "Do's and Don'ts," restricting discussion of topics including "violence, nudity, feminist propaganda, fetishization, and other content that instigates negative discourse."

This has sparked intense debate. One Twitter (X) user commented, "It is WILD to me that this actually made it out the door... creators casually signing this and not speaking up is just as wild..." Others, however, expressed no concern.

Despite this controversy, Black Myth: Wukong remains highly anticipated. Steam sales data shows it as both the best-selling and most wishlisted game prior to release. While the lack of console reviews presents a caveat, the game is poised for a significant launch.