Summary
- Black Myth: Wukong now supports PS5 Pro with improved graphics through PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution
- The December update brings the Challenge Mode with replayable battles and gauntlets
- Since its August release, Black Myth: Wukong has sold 20 million copies and earned awards for its combat and fan appeal
The highly acclaimed Black Myth: Wukong is stepping up its game with a new update tailored for the PS5 Pro. Fans of this visually stunning Chinese action RPG have reason to celebrate as Game Science, the studio behind the game, has announced official PS5 Pro support alongside a host of new features and enhancements. This update is part of a broader patch already rolled out for PC versions on the Epic Games Store and WeGame platforms.
Black Myth: Wukong‘s Meteoric Rise
Since its launch in August 2024, Black Myth: Wukong has taken the gaming world by storm. Developed by the Chinese studio Game Science, the game has captivated players with its breathtaking visuals, intense combat, and rich storytelling inspired by the Chinese classic Journey to the West. The game’s global success is evident—it sold over 20 million copies within a month of release, solidifying its position as one of the top gaming phenomena of the year.
The accolades haven’t stopped pouring in. Black Myth: Wukong earned nominations in five categories at the prestigious Game Awards 2024. While it clinched the awards for Best Action Game and Player’s Voice, it faced stiff competition in other categories. Astro Bot edged it out for Game of the Year and Best Game Direction, while Metaphor: ReFantazio triumphed in Best Art Direction. Despite these narrow misses, the game’s impact remains undeniable.
The December Update: What’s New?
Scheduled for release on December 14, the latest update (version 1.0.12.16581) introduces a slew of enhancements, features, and optimizations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s coming:
PS5 Pro Support and Visual Enhancements
The update makes full use of the PS5 Pro’s capabilities, introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). This technology enhances graphics in both Quality and Balanced modes, delivering crisper visuals and a more immersive experience. For players seeking smooth gameplay, the update also supports a 120 Hz output, maintaining a stable 40 FPS in Balanced Mode. Should any visual issues arise, PSSR can be toggled off in the settings.
Performance improvements don’t end there. Input response in Performance Mode has been fine-tuned, and the update optimizes frame rates and visual clarity across various scenes and boss battles. These changes aim to elevate the gaming experience, particularly for players who demand both visual fidelity and responsive gameplay.
New Gameplay Modes: Challenge Mode
For players who’ve already completed the main storyline, the new Challenge Mode adds exciting replay value. Accessible from any Keeper’s Shrine, the mode offers two distinct options:
- Return of Rivals – Revisit iconic battles from the main game, choosing from three difficulty levels. Note that this mode excludes any opponents players have yet to defeat in their original playthrough.
- Gauntlet of Legends – Take on multiple enemies in succession with customizable difficulty settings through curses. This mode introduces fresh moves from familiar foes, so players must stay on their toes. Completing gauntlets rewards players with rare treasures, including:
- Medicines: Glimmering Scale Pellets and its formula
- Drinks and Soaks: Sour Wine, Frost-Enduring Chrysanthemum, and Robust Antler
- Curios: Stone Tiger Tally, Ever-Burning Palace Lantern, and Fragment of the Ocean-Settling Pillar
- Equipment: Three Hill Crown
- Weapons: Qing Mallet, Fanged Cyan Staff, and Leeching Centipede Staff
New Feature: Journeyer’s Chart
The addition of the Journeyer’s Chart offers players a practical and visually engaging way to navigate the game’s world. This feature becomes available early in the game, upon reaching Black Wind Mountain and meeting the Keeper. For each new territory explored, players can purchase updated charts at Keeper’s Shrines. This is a welcome tool for adventurers looking to fully immerse themselves in Black Myth: Wukong’s expansive universe.
Festive Armor: The Armor Set of Opulence
To celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, Game Science is gifting players a unique Armor Set of Opulence. This festive set includes four intricately designed pieces that Destined Ones can claim through the “Trailblazer’s Gift” option at any Keeper’s Shrine. This thoughtful addition highlights the game’s cultural roots while giving players another reason to suit up for battle.
Expanded Soundtrack Options
Music lovers will appreciate the update’s expanded soundtrack functionality. Players on both PC and PS5 can now access a curated selection of the game’s music through the newly added “Black Myth: Wukong Soundtrack Selection.” While some tracks are restricted due to copyright limitations, the ability to export certain pieces adds a new layer of appreciation for the game’s audio artistry.
Bug Fixes and Performance Tweaks
The patch also addresses a host of bugs and performance issues, ensuring smoother gameplay across platforms. Key fixes include:
- Resolving instances where certain bosses’ attacks behaved unpredictably or caused crashes.
- Enhancing interactions during battles, such as improved grappling mechanics and smoother transitions between forms.
- Optimizing combat animations and descriptions for clarity.
- Fixing UI alignment issues and improving text display in multiple languages.
These updates reflect Game Science’s commitment to maintaining the game’s high standards and addressing player feedback.
What’s Next for Black Myth: Wukong?
Excitement is brewing over what Game Science has planned next for this beloved title. In a recent interview, producer Feng Ji hinted at “surprises” in store for fans, sparking speculation about potential downloadable content (DLC). Rumors suggest that a DLC release might coincide with Chinese New Year on January 29, 2025. While details remain under wraps, the community is abuzz with anticipation.
Whether it’s new storylines, characters, or additional gameplay features, players have high hopes for what’s to come. Given the success of Black Myth: Wukong and its rapidly growing fan base, it’s clear that Game Science is just getting started.
Final Thoughts
The December update for Black Myth: Wukong underscores why the game continues to captivate millions of players worldwide. With its stunning graphics, engaging gameplay, and cultural depth, the game has set a new standard for action RPGs. The latest patch not only enhances the experience for existing players but also lays the groundwork for future adventures in this mesmerizing world.
As fans eagerly await news of potential DLC and other surprises, one thing is certain: Black Myth: Wukong is more than a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon, blending tradition with cutting-edge gaming innovation. Whether you’re a veteran player or new to the journey, now is the perfect time to dive into this epic tale and experience the legend of the Great Sage for yourself.