Learn Chinese Through Gaming: Chinese Language and Culture in Black Myth: Wukong

Ever thought about learning Chinese while gaming? This post might just open the door to learning Chinese in a fun and exciting way!

Recently, the Chinese 3A game Black Myth: WuKong has taken the gaming world by storm. According to VG Insight, it’s sold over 18.1 million copies worldwide in just two weeks, with about 3 million core players in the US alone. Even Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, gave it a shoutout, calling it an impressive 3A game! 

Many players are loving the game for its beautiful design, thrilling combat, and strong Chinese cultural vibes. As one reviewer put it:

Black Myth: Wukong is a very fun game. The story, visuals, and music all boast their Chinese origins, and the gameplay is addictive, with a combat system focused on customization and exploration that rewards the player. However, the PC version’s performance is abysmal, making this great experience difficult to fully appreciate. —Alberto Desfassiaux 

Many share similar thoughts, like Zubi Khan, who adds: Black Myth: Wukong masterfully takes what makes a good Soulslike tick without selling its own soul, delivering what is the best action game of the year. 

(Reviews for Black Myth: Wukong)

But beyond the amazing graphics and gameplay, Black Myth: Wukong can also be your gateway to learning Chinese language and culture!

The Story Behind Black Myth: Wukong

Black Myth: Wukong is based on one of China’s famous classics—Journey to the West (西游记 Xīyóu Jì). Not familiar with Chinese culture? No worries—here’s a quick rundown!

Journey to the West

Published in the 16th century, Journey to the West is one of the most beloved Chinese novels of all time. It follows the epic adventure of a Buddhist monk, Xuanzang. He travels to India to collect sacred scriptures. He’s joined by three companions: Sun Wukong (the Monkey King), Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing. They face demons, monsters and countless challenges together, building deep bonds along the way. 

This story has had a huge impact worldwide. Even Dragon Ball was inspired by it! For a quick dive into the novel, please check out this video. 

While Black Myth: Wukong is based on this classic tale, the game introduces its own twists and surprises. Want a sneak peek into the game’s plot? Be sure to watch this video–but be careful of spoilers! 

Learn Chinese While You Play

Since Black Myth: Wukong’s default language is Chinese, why not pick up some key phrases and characters while you play? Here are a few to get you started: 

• Journey to the West: 西游记 (Xīyóu Jì)

• Monkey King / Sun Wukong: 孙悟空 (Sūn Wùkōng)

• Golden Cudgel: 金箍棒 (Jīngūbàng)

• Monsters and Demons: 妖怪 (Yāoguài)

These words pop up in both the game and the original story, so learning them will not only enhance your gameplay but also deepen your understanding of Chinese language and culture! 

Black Myth: Wukong isn’t just an epic game—it’s also a fun and immersive way to learn Chinese language and culture! Playing the game and learning the language at the same time is both fun and efficient. 

Just like the ChineseSkill app, which offers a fun approach to learning Chinese, you can enhance your skills while playing. With vocabulary lists, game-related terms, and sentence structures, you’ll reinforce what you encounter in the game.

So, why not level up your Chinese skills the next time you explore the world of Black Myth: Wukong?