China’s video game industry is making waves on the global stage with the release of Black Myth: Wukong, a top-tier action game set in mythological China. Developed by Chinese video game company Game Science, the game has shattered world records by selling over 10 million units in just three days after its launch on August 20. Even ten days later, it still ranked second in revenue in the U.S. and first globally on the Steam platform, where it is priced at around $60.
Dino Ying, chairman of Hero Games, which co-published Black Myth: Wukong and was an early investor in Game Science, expressed optimism about the future of China-made AAA games. He mentioned that another AAA game is in development, but did not provide a specific timeline. While sales of Black Myth: Wukong have increased significantly since the initial release, Ying did not disclose exact figures.
Ying emphasized that future game releases from the company will have a global strategy from the outset. He also expects foreign AAA game developers to recognize the vast potential of the Chinese market and cater to Chinese players’ preferences. AAA games, known for their high graphics quality and extensive marketing, have historically been associated with companies like Nintendo, Ubisoft, and Electronic Arts.
Ivan Su, a senior equity analyst at Morningstar, highlighted the untapped potential of the Chinese gaming market, with over 600 million gamers in the country. He explained that the lengthy production time of AAA games for computers and consoles has been a deterrent for China in the past, leading to a focus on mobile games for cost-effectiveness.
Hero Games’ journey with Game Science began in 2020 when the developer approached them with Black Myth: Wukong after two failed projects. Despite initial setbacks, Hero Games stayed invested in Game Science, eventually leading to the groundbreaking success of Black Myth: Wukong. Ying credited his business partner, Daniel Wu, for identifying the talent in Game Science and providing the support needed for their success.
The approval of Black Myth: Wukong by China’s government in February marked a significant milestone for the gaming industry in the country. Ying noted that the regulatory environment has become more favorable in recent years, with increased respect for the game industry’s contributions to cultural and economic development.
With the success of Black Myth: Wukong highlighting the massive market potential in China and abroad, the future looks bright for the country’s gaming industry. As Chinese games gain popularity for their rich cultural elements and appeal to a global audience, the industry is poised for further growth and innovation in the years to come. China’s unique cultural flavor sets them apart from games developed in other regions. This distinctiveness comes from stories that have been passed down over the last millennia, providing a rich source of inspiration for game development. According to Ying, there are at least five to 10 stories in China that have the potential to be turned into captivating games.
Ying believes that the longevity of these stories is a testament to their appeal and popularity. He stated, “If I create a new thing, I don’t know if people will like it. But something that’s lasted 1,000 years, people will definitely like it.” By respecting the work of the original artisans who crafted these tales, game developers can tap into a deep well of creativity and cultural significance.
Game Science, a Chinese game development company, has gone to great lengths to capture the essence of ancient Chinese culture in their games. They have sent teams and equipment to ancient temples in China to scan and replicate intricate designs, enhancing the immersive experience for players.
In the realm of independent games, Chinese companies are making their mark on the industry. Shanghai-based Cotton Game, with a team of 70 people, has garnered recognition for their unique approach to game development. Their game, Sunset Hills, took five years to hand-draw and has received accolades such as the “Game of the Year” and “Best Indie Game” awards.
Cotton Game’s CEO, Cotton Guo, expressed their desire to use games as a platform for sharing art, philosophy, and thoughtful content. Sunset Hills follows the journey of an anthropomorphic dog through a picturesque village, offering players a tranquil and meditative gaming experience. The game’s manager, Robin Luo, drew inspiration from his own dog, aiming to provide players with a refreshing escape from the fast-paced modern world.
The success of Chinese indie games like Sunset Hills showcases the growing influence of Chinese game developers on the global stage. By drawing on their rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions, these developers are creating immersive and captivating gaming experiences that resonate with players worldwide.
