Black Myth: Wukong Wins Ultimate Game at 2024 Golden Joystick Awards
China’s first AAA game, Black Myth: Wukong, won the “Ultimate Game of the Year” and “Best Visual Design” awards at the 2024 Golden Joystick Awards. The game received nominations for “Best Game Direction,” “Best Action Game,” and “Best Art Direction.”
The Golden Joystick Awards are one of the oldest gaming awards, recognized globally by gamers. Feng Ji, the producer of Black Myth: Wukong, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “With the weather so cold, having an extra kasaya (meaning honor) never hurts.”
Feng announced potential new content could be added by the end of the year. He encouraged players to stay engaged, hinting at surprises to come even if they finished the game.
Interview with Feng Ji, Producer of Black Myth: Wukong
News Directory 3: Congratulations on winning the “Ultimate Game of the Year” and “Best Visual Design” at the 2024 Golden Joystick Awards! How does it feel to receive such prestigious recognition?
Feng Ji: Thank you! This recognition means a lot to us. Winning these awards is not only an honor but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. With the weather so cold, having an extra kasaya (meaning honor) never hurts, and it inspires us to keep pushing our creative boundaries.
ND3: Black Myth: Wukong is a monumental achievement as China’s first AAA game. Can you tell us about the inspiration and vision behind this project?
Feng Ji: Our main inspiration draws from Chinese mythology and literature, particularly the classic tale of “Journey to the West.” We wanted to create a game that not only pays homage to this rich storytelling tradition but also resonates on a universal level. Our vision was to craft an immersive experience—one where the players not only see but feel the world around them.
ND3: The game received several nominations, including “Best Game Direction” and “Best Action Game.” How did your team approach these aspects of game development?
Feng Ji: Creating a seamless gameplay experience requires collaboration across various departments. In terms of game direction, we focused on narrative engagement and player agency. For action gameplay, we aimed for fluid mechanics that integrate well with the story and the characters. It was essential for us to keep players engaged and invested throughout their journey.
ND3: Speaking of challenges, after winning the Best Visual Design award, what were some hurdles your team faced in creating this visually stunning world?
Feng Ji: One of our biggest challenges was striking the balance between unique visuals and familiar elements. We wanted our world to feel both new and accessible, allowing players to be captivated while still resonating with elements of their own cultural backgrounds. This balancing act was critical in designing the characters, settings, and actions.
ND3: You mentioned the possibility of new content coming by the end of the year. Can you share any teasers about what players can expect?
Feng Ji: While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I encourage players to stay engaged. We have some exciting surprises in store, even for those who have completed the game. Our aim is to expand the universe of Black Myth: Wukong and enhance the player experience in unique ways.
ND3: what message would you like to convey to the players who have supported Black Myth: Wukong?
Feng Ji: I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the players. Your support fuels our passion, and we are committed to delivering not just a game, but a lasting experience. We hope to continue exceeding your expectations with future updates and content. Thank you for being part of our journey!
After winning the Best Visual Design award, the development team spoke about the challenges in creating a world that feels new yet familiar. They aimed to immerse players in the game’s characters, settings, and actions. This goal served as both a motivation and a challenge for the team.