The release of the game Black Myth: Wukong (Hắc thần thoại: Tôn Ngộ Không) is set for August 2024, and it has already become one of the best-selling titles in Steam history, marking a significant milestone in the global gaming distribution landscape. Sales have approached the staggering figure of 1 billion USD, not including other online platforms.
From Traditional Tales to Iconic Characters in Gaming
The game draws inspiration from the classic 1986 film Tây du ký (Journey to the West), with a soundtrack that features the iconic piece Vân cung tấn âm.
This soundtrack has been reimagined to fit the game’s atmospheric environment, continuing to generate buzz after Black Myth: Wukong made waves in the market. The piece Vân cung tấn âm has been showcased in game shows and television programs, attracting significant attention across online platforms.
Opera singer Mỹ đ was thrilled after hearing the theme song for Black Myth: Wukong. He also analyzed why this music is so addictive and memorable after just one listen.
“What strikes me is the unique character of the melody. The way the composer creates strong hooks that linger in our minds is captivating. We have to treasure them in our daily lives. They are the lifeblood of music,” he expressed.
The 1986 Version of Tây du ký
In the 1986 adaptation of Tây du ký directed by Dương Khiết, Vân cung tấn âm by Hứa Kính Thanh has become a classic masterpiece. This soundtrack is a masterful blend of traditional ethnic music and Western classical styles, creating an unexpected fusion.
The Paper highlights the journey of creativity behind Vân cung tấn âm. To encapsulate the essence of Tây du ký, Hứa Kính Thanh spent many days in contemplation. He was accustomed to working late into the night, drawing inspiration and jotting down ideas in the early hours of the following day.
While half-asleep, three laborers passed by his window, humming a tune. The idea sparked in his mind, and the classic melody “Ten ten ten ten” emerged.
Hứa Kính Thanh utilized many electronic sounds in Vân cung tấn âm, such as electric guitars, synths, and bass, to create a grand and rich atmosphere. The melody evokes a sense of nostalgia and reverence. Notably, the female vocal harmonies throughout the piece elevate its elegance, reminiscent of divine beings dancing among the clouds, echoing the author’s artistic vision.
The electric guitar and other instruments in the soundtrack were inspired by Đặng Lệ Quân – a renowned artist in China, celebrated as the “Pop Queen of Asia”.
In just two to three days, he completed the initial 2’40 long musical segment. The iconic melody from Vân cung tấn âm has resonated with many audiences in China and across Asia.
Black Myth: Wukong is an action role-playing game developed by Game Science, inspired by the classic Chinese mythology and the 16th-century novel Tây du ký, one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature. It incorporates elements of traditional Chinese culture, providing players with a rich experience of the country’s folklore and landscapes.
In the game, players will take on the role of Tôn Ngộ Không, exploring the grand adventures of the celestial being in the west.
Available on PS5, Steam, Epic Games Store, and WeGame, Black Myth: Wukong currently stands as the best-selling game across multiple platforms, including Steam and WeGame, marking a new milestone for AAA titles from China – games that have high budgets and are produced and distributed by major publishers.
The development process of this game is regarded as the first AAA title from China, starting in 2018 and completing after six years of significant challenges.
