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Black Myth: Wukong’s Rise – Technical Innovation, Cultural Impact, and China’s Gaming Soft Power

General Report May 5, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Game Commercial Success and Popularity
  3. Technical Advancements: DLSS 4 and Xess 2.0 Support
  4. Cross-Industry Influence: From Game to Automotive Design
  5. Chinese Game Industry’s Soft Power Strategy
  6. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • Since its launch in 2024, "Black Myth: Wukong" has emerged as a remarkable success in the gaming industry, particularly within China's digital marketplace, where it not only achieved 25 million sales on Steam but also shaped discussions about the future of gaming aesthetics and technology. The game's combination of engaging narrative, stunning visuals, and well-crafted marketing strategies contributed to its standing as one of the highest-grossing titles of the year. While it garnered critical acclaim from both domestic and international reviews—championed for its advanced usage of NVIDIA DLSS 4 technology—its blend of rich cultural elements from Chinese folklore has paved the way for broader discussions surrounding the portrayal of Chinese culture in interactive media. In 2025, its influence heightened, presenting a case study in the integration of entertainment and cultural heritage, and transforming perceptions of Chinese-developed video games. The phenomenon surrounding "Black Myth: Wukong" also demonstrated how successful the game has been in elevating the visibility of Chinese soft power in global contexts, establishing a precedent for future exports of interactive entertainment.

  • The introduction of groundbreaking technical advancements, specifically NVIDIA's DLSS 4 and Intel's Xess 2.0 technologies, exemplifies how innovation can synchronize with artistic expression to enhance player experiences. The release of substantial patches, including the Patch 1.0.16.18901, played an essential role in optimizing graphical performance on platforms such as the Epic Games Store, enhancing the game’s appeal to gamers with high-end hardware. The enhancements have been characterized by improved frame rates and visual fidelity, which allow players to experience the game in ways that were not adequately addressed in prior iterations of gaming technology. This embrace of cutting-edge technology not only reflects a commitment to quality but also positions "Black Myth: Wukong" as a leader in the competitive arena of modern gaming.

  • The cross-industry collaborations sparked by the game's popularity, as illustrated by BYD's dragon-inspired electric vehicles unveiled at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, reveal broader implications for branding and cultural representation in consumer products. This initiative has demonstrated the extent to which interactive entertainment can intersect with traditional industries, enhancing both aesthetic and thematic narratives. Furthermore, cultural branding strategies are being harnessed not only by automotive companies like BYD but also by gaming developers like TiMi Studio Group, which aims to push the boundaries of cultural storytelling in gaming. Such strategies facilitate the expansion of narratives that resonate with a global audience, ensuring that cultural representation remains at the forefront of marketing initiatives.

  • As China intensifies its endeavors to assert influence through soft power, the landscape of gaming and interactive entertainment is evolving rapidly. The synergistic relationships forged between games, technology, and other industries signify a movement towards a more interconnected form of expression that champions cultural storytelling.

2. Game Commercial Success and Popularity

  • 2-1. Steam performance and sales figures

  • Since its release in 2024, "Black Myth: Wukong" has seen remarkable commercial success, particularly on the Steam platform. The game achieved a staggering total of 25 million sales in China alone, solidifying its position as one of the highest-grossing titles of the year. This unprecedented performance can be attributed to the game's combination of engaging gameplay, stunning graphics, and an effective marketing strategy that resonated deeply with the domestic audience. The favorable reception on Steam has not only boosted sales figures but has also generated extensive discussions within the gaming community, contributing to the game's viral status.

  • 2-2. Critical reception in domestic and international markets

  • The critical reception of "Black Myth: Wukong" has been overwhelmingly positive, both domestically and internationally. The game received high ratings from various gaming publications and was nominated for several prestigious awards. Critics lauded its innovative graphics, which were further enhanced by the implementation of the advanced NVIDIA DLSS 4 technology. In addition, the gameplay mechanics and narrative depth were frequently highlighted as key strengths, making it a favorite among players worldwide. The international market embraced the game, which indicates a successful crossover appeal and illustrates its potential to compete with other prominent titles from established gaming regions.

  • 2-3. Role as one of 2024’s standout titles

  • "Black Myth: Wukong" has established itself as a standout title of 2024, significantly influencing both the gaming industry and Chinese soft power. Its success has helped elevate the perception of Chinese-developed games on the global stage, showcasing the country's ability to produce top-tier entertainment products. The game's blend of rich cultural references from Chinese folklore with cutting-edge technology has not only attracted gamers but has also garnered media attention, reinforcing its status as a cultural phenomenon. In 2025, the importance of such titles in improving China's gaming reputation and its potential for soft power export will likely drive further investments in game development and marketing.

3. Technical Advancements: DLSS 4 and Xess 2.0 Support

  • 3-1. Game Science’s Wukong patch features

  • In April 2025, Game Science released a significant patch for Black Myth: Wukong that introduced support for NVIDIA's DLSS 4 and Intel's Xess 2.0 technologies. This update, labeled Patch 1.0.16.18901, is specifically accessible on the Epic Games Store as of April 16, 2025, while availability on other platforms like Steam and PlayStation 5 was promised for a future date.

  • This patch enhanced the game’s visual fidelity significantly, allowing players on high-end systems to achieve remarkable graphical performance through advanced rendering techniques such as Super Resolution and Frame Generation. The patch's launch followed a previously successful update in February, which tested a new super-resolution sampling system for the game's PC version.

  • 3-2. Implementation on Epic Games Store

  • The rollout of DLC support on the Epic Games Store marked a strategic choice for Game Science, as they sought to optimize performance for users who own NVIDIA RTX 50 series graphics cards. This implementation included settings for Multi-Frame Generation, drastically improving frame rates in high-demand gaming scenarios. For instance, players utilizing an RTX 5070 series GPU could experience frame rates exceeding 110 FPS, while RTX 5090 users could achieve over 240 FPS with full settings enabled.

  • The initial exclusivity to the Epic Games platform raised questions regarding the timeline for other platforms, yet it also characterized a broader trend where specific platforms become launch pads for technological advancements in the gaming industry.

  • 3-3. Benefits of NVIDIA DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation

  • The integration of NVIDIA’s DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation into Black Myth: Wukong has been hailed as a cornerstone enhancement for the game, enabling performance boosts that are particularly notable for players pushing for 4K resolution. According to NVIDIA, the combination of DLSS technologies could multiply performance by nearly ten times, allowing players to enjoy intricate graphics and fluid gameplay that were previously beyond the reach of many gaming systems.

  • This massive performance leap not only enhances the user experience but also ensures that players can fully explore the game's rich visuals and gameplay mechanics without compromising on frame rates, a challenge many titles face at ultra settings.

  • 3-4. AMD Xess 2.0 integration prospects

  • As the gaming community anticipates broader implementation, the potential future integration of AMD's Xess 2.0 technology represents an exciting avenue for expanding graphical enhancements and performance optimization. With Game Science confirming Xess 2.0 compatibility, this allows for enhanced frame generation capabilities similar to those provided by NVIDIA. Players with AMD hardware might see parallel benefits, signalling a competitive landscape where both AMD and NVIDIA technologies enhance game performance.

  • The growing support for both DLSS 4 and Xess 2.0 reflects an industry trend towards adopting hybrid rendering solutions, which can cater to a wider array of gaming hardware, ultimately benefiting a broader player base.

4. Cross-Industry Influence: From Game to Automotive Design

  • 4-1. BYD’s 2025 Shanghai Auto Show dragon-inspired EV concepts

  • At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, held from April 23, BYD showcased two distinctive electric vehicle (EV) concepts inspired by the popular game 'Black Myth: Wukong.' These vehicles were notable not only for their unique design but also for their incorporation of cultural elements drawn from the game, particularly the dragon motifs that resonate deeply with Chinese mythology. The announcement of BYD's collaboration with 'Black Myth: Wukong' occurred in October 2024, marking a significant crossover between gaming and automotive design aimed at promoting cultural heritage through modern technologies.

  • The two concept cars, modifications of the BYD Han L and the Denza Z9 GT, stand out with their extravagant visual modifications. The BYD Han L features a rear wing patterned after dragon skin and additional aerodynamic enhancements that complement its bold aesthetic. In contrast, the Denza Z9 GT showcases an opulent golden and brown exterior, adorned with traditional motifs and dragon sculptures—a visual representation perfectly suited for the cultural narrative conveyed in 'Black Myth: Wukong.' This strategy not only highlights BYD's design innovation but also demonstrates how interactive entertainment can influence various industries, including automotive design.

  • Reflecting the game's immense popularity, which saw sales of 20 million units within its first month of release in August 2024, such cross-industry collaborations represent a forward-thinking approach to branding. BYD aims to craft a connection with a younger audience, particularly gamers, by presenting these concept vehicles as more than just automobiles—they are a celebration of Chinese culture's rich storytelling heritage.

  • 4-2. Visual motifs drawn from Black Myth: Wukong

  • The design language of BYD's concept vehicles draws heavily from the rich aesthetics found in 'Black Myth: Wukong.' This action role-playing game is rooted in the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West' and brings forth a visual feast based on mythology and folklore. The implementation of dragon motifs into the automotive design signifies an innovative fusion of video game artistry with practical vehicle aesthetics, showcasing how narratives in gaming can inspire real-world applications in industries like automotive.

  • For example, the dragon-themed elements, including sculptures and intricate patterns, serve to evoke the game's visual identity while appealing to enthusiasts of both gaming and luxury vehicles. This synergy not only enriches the visual culture but also helps establish a brand narrative that resonates with consumers, positioning the vehicles as both a tribute to cultural heritage and a statement of technological prowess.

  • The exposure gained from the game's recognition and its resulting fanbase translates into heightened consumer interest, with these concept cars likely to attract attention at shows and within gaming communities. By tapping into this cultural narrative, BYD positions itself as a forward-thinking brand that understands the importance of storytelling and visual culture in enhancing consumer products.

  • 4-3. Significance of cultural branding in consumer products

  • The launch of these concept vehicles illustrates the critical role that cultural branding plays in today's consumer product landscape. As seen with BYD's approach, leveraging influential titles like 'Black Myth: Wukong' can significantly enhance brand visibility and connect emotionally with target demographics. This technique not only promotes sales of vehicles but also solidifies a brand's identity within a specific cultural framework.

  • Cultural branding transcends traditional marketing by embedding deeper narratives and emotional connections into products, driving consumer loyalty and fostering a community around shared interests. In the case of the BYD concept cars, the integration of elements from 'Black Myth: Wukong' creates an immediate affinity with consumers who appreciate the game's cultural references and artistic design. This strategy underscores a broader trend in which companies across various industries are increasingly looking beyond their core products to engage consumers through storytelling and cultural relevance.

  • As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the importance of cultural and emotional resonance in product design is expected to increase. BYD's dragon-inspired concept cars exemplify this trend, demonstrating how automotive brands can engage with the cultural zeitgeist through their product offerings—particularly in markets where mythology and storytelling play a central role in consumer identity.

5. Chinese Game Industry’s Soft Power Strategy

  • 5-1. TiMi Studio Group’s overseas promotion of Honor of Kings: World

  • In March 2025, TiMi Studio Group, a prominent player in the gaming sector and a subsidiary of Tencent, initiated a strategic push to promote its open-world RPG, Honor of Kings: World, during the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco. This event showcased the game’s rich Eastern cultural elements and epic narratives, underscoring TiMi's commitment to integrating Chinese cultural themes into mainstream gaming. The drive followed the success of Black Myth: Wukong, further inspiring domestic developers to embrace similar global outreach strategies. TiMi's efforts aim to attract international gamers by not only highlighting engaging gameplay but also making a cultural statement about China's storytelling traditions in the gaming medium.

  • 5-2. IShowSpeed’s livestream tours of Chinese cities

  • The impact of cultural influencers like IShowSpeed has also played a significant role in China's soft power strategy, especially with his tours of prominent cities in China during early 2025. IShowSpeed, an American YouTuber known for his vast online presence with nearly 40 million followers, livestreamed his experiences in cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, where he showcased local culture, attractions, and the hospitality of the Chinese people. His positive impressions of China resonated with his audience, countering prevalent Western narratives about the country. Commenters on his videos expressed newfound appreciation and curiosity about China, reflecting the shifting perceptions among younger audiences. This phenomenon illustrates how, through new media and cultural engagement, China is actively working to enhance its image abroad.

  • 5-3. Pop culture as a tool for international influence

  • As observed in the recent success of Chinese films and video games, pop culture remains a potent tool for fostering international influence. The success of animated films like Ne Zha 2, which grossed over $2 billion globally in early 2025, exemplifies this trend. State media quickly co-opted such cultural achievements to bolster narratives surrounding China's creative capabilities, framing them as significant indicators of the nation's soft power. Moreover, the gaming industry is also pivotal, with titles like Black Myth: Wukong at the forefront, showcasing not only the quality of Chinese game development but also embedding Chinese mythology and cultural narratives into global gaming culture. By continually producing high-quality content that resonates across cultures, China cultivates a stronger foothold in the competitive landscape of global entertainment.

Conclusion

  • "Black Myth: Wukong" stands as a pivotal case study highlighting the intersection of game design, cultural representation, and technological advancements. It exemplifies how a singular title can catalyze innovation, influence design beyond the realm of gaming, and act as a formidable agent of national soft power. Its position at the forefront of rendering performance—facilitated by cutting-edge technologies such as NVIDIA DLSS 4 and AMD Xess 2.0—ensures that it remains a benchmark in the gaming industry, setting high standards for visuals and gameplay mechanics that audiences have come to expect.

  • The adoption of mythological dragon motifs in automotive design by BYD underscores the cross-industry branding opportunities that the game has inspired, showcasing the potential for collaborative narratives creating new touchpoints for consumer engagement. These developments not only extend the cultural footprint of "Black Myth: Wukong" but also create a narrative that resonates deeply with both national pride and progressive commercialization.

  • Furthermore, initiatives from major players like TiMi Studio Group demonstrate a strategic push in promoting Chinese narratives globally—further enhanced by influencers such as IShowSpeed, whose outreach initiatives are reshaping perceptions about China's cultural landscape. As the landscape of interactive media continues to evolve, the significance of cultural and emotional connections in product design will undoubtedly grow. The continued focus on technical collaborations, innovative marketing strategies, and cultural partnerships will not only help sustain the legacy of "Black Myth: Wukong" but will also solidify China's aspirations as a formidable player in the global entertainment sector.

  • Looking forward, this momentum will likely lead to greater investments in gaming and interactive content production, establishing a foundation for the export of cultural narratives that elevate China’s presence in the global market, thereby ensuring that the future of entertainment reflects a rich tapestry of shared stories and innovative expressions.

Glossary

  • Black Myth: Wukong: An action role-playing game developed by Game Science, launched in 2024, which draws heavily from Chinese mythology, particularly the classic novel 'Journey to the West'. It has achieved significant commercial success, selling 25 million copies on Steam and influencing various industries beyond gaming, including automotive design.
  • DLSS 4 (Deep Learning Super Sampling 4): A cutting-edge graphics technology developed by NVIDIA, implemented in Black Myth: Wukong to enhance visual fidelity and performance. DLSS 4 uses artificial intelligence to upscale lower resolution images to higher resolutions, significantly improving frame rates and graphics quality on compatible hardware.
  • Xess 2.0: An image upscaling technology developed by Intel, similar to NVIDIA's DLSS. Xess 2.0 aims to provide improved performance and visual quality for games, enabling smoother gameplay experiences. Its anticipated implementation in Black Myth: Wukong highlights the competitive landscape between graphics technology providers.
  • Game Science: The developer behind Black Myth: Wukong, recognized for its innovative approach to combining advanced technology with storytelling. Founded in 2014, the company has gained acclaim for pushing the boundaries of gaming aesthetics and performance.
  • BYD: A prominent Chinese automotive manufacturer known for its commitment to electric vehicles (EVs). In 2025, BYD showcased dragon-themed EV concepts inspired by Black Myth: Wukong at the Shanghai Auto Show, illustrating the crossover between gaming culture and automotive design.
  • Soft power: The ability of a country to influence others through cultural means rather than military or economic coercion. Black Myth: Wukong exemplifies China's soft power strategy, enhancing its cultural visibility and appeal in the global entertainment market.
  • TiMi Studio Group: A subsidiary of Tencent, TiMi Studio Group is a leading video game developer in China. In 2025, they promoted their open-world RPG, Honor of Kings: World, at the Game Developers Conference to showcase Chinese cultural narratives in gaming.
  • Steam: A digital distribution platform for video games operated by Valve Corporation. Black Myth: Wukong achieved remarkable success on Steam, contributing to its status as one of the highest-grossing games of 2024.
  • Epic Games Store: A digital storefront for video games developed by Epic Games. Black Myth: Wukong's significant updates, including the support for NVIDIA DLSS 4, were initially rolled out on this platform, marking a strategic approach to enhance performance for users of high-end graphics hardware.
  • Patch update: An update provided by game developers to fix bugs, improve performance, or add new features to a game. Patch 1.0.16.18901 for Black Myth: Wukong introduced support for DLSS 4 and Xess 2.0, showcasing how ongoing development can enhance gaming experiences.
  • Dragon motif: A design element that references the dragon, a significant figure in Chinese mythology. The incorporation of dragon motifs in both Black Myth: Wukong and BYD's automotive designs highlights the cultural connectivity between gaming and traditional storytelling.

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