Exploring Chinese Myth Representation in Video Games: A Case Study of Black Myth: Wukong
Keywords:
Chinese mythology, Black Myth: Wukong, Cultural representation, Narratives, Video GamesAbstract
This study explores how Black Myth: Wukong, a Chinese AAA video game, reinterprets traditional mythology through narrative design, character development, and symbolic world-building. A non-commentary full-review gameplay video, 18 hours, 24 minutes, and 4 seconds in lengths, from the MKIceAndFire YouTube channel is selected as the sample. Content analysis is employed to examine six mythologically themed chapters and over 200 in-game characters, comparing their representations to the original mythology guided by Hall’s representation theory. The findings reveal that the game transforms classical figures, such as Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Red Boy, into emotionally complex and morally ambiguous characters, while introducing the player-driven “Destined One” as a narrative bridge between myth and modern storytelling. Rather than offering a faithful retelling, the game reconstructs mythology as a living, interactive experience. The study highlights the potential of digital games as a medium for cultural expression. It suggests that immersive narrative design can enhance both player engagement and the global visibility of Chinese cultural heritage.
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