After beating two mini-bosses and the White Wolf, I can confidently say that Black Myth: Wukong has far exceeded my already sky-high expectations. The gameplay is exceptionally smooth, with combat mechanics that, while not exactly Souls-like, offer a satisfying challenge. The learning curve for perfect dodges, enemy attack patterns, and different enemy types keeps you engaged, and the gorgeous, non-open-world level design, paired with a soothing soundtrack, adds to the immersive experience.

While some features like a proper full-screen mode are still absent, the overall gameplay is so well-executed that these minor issues are easy to overlook. This game has Game of the Year potential, and it's a shame that Western gaming press might not have given it the recognition it deserves.

I'm thrilled to play a game that doesn't require me to switch language settings, though I acknowledge that some of the story elements and cultural nuances might be tough to grasp without prior knowledge of Journey to the West. Even so, this depth adds to the game's mystery and replayability, as there's always something new to discover.

If you get stuck on any obscure content, feel free to leave a comment—I’ll do my best to help you out. Sharing and understanding these details together is part of what makes gaming so enjoyable.

I sincerely hope Black Myth: Wukong becomes the huge success it deserves to be. Happy exploring!

GAME OF THE YEAR