Hit Chinese Video Game Seeks to Curb 'Negative Discourse'

Black Myth: Wukong, a highly anticipated Chinese video game, is set to launch with a significant budget and aims to enhance China's cultural influence globally. However, ahead of its release, the game's developers issued guidelines to overseas streamers, prohibiting discussions on sensitive topics such as politics, "feminist propaganda," Covid-19, and China's gaming policies. This move has drawn criticism from content creators, highlighting the censorship challenges faced in China. The game, based on the classic novel "Journey to the West," features the Monkey King as its protagonist and is considered a landmark for China's gaming industry, which has traditionally focused on mobile games. Despite government restrictions on gaming, the game has generated national pride and interest, trending on Chinese social media. The involvement of Tencent and state-owned enterprises underscores the game's ties to the Chinese government. The release of Black Myth: Wukong is seen as a significant step in the global expansion of Chinese culture, with the game showcasing cultural landmarks and narratives. However, the restrictions on discourse reflect ongoing tensions between creative expression and state control in China's entertainment sector.

- Black Myth: Wukong is one of China's first big-budget video games, with a budget exceeding $50 million.

- The game has faced criticism for censorship guidelines imposed on overseas streamers.

- It is based on the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West," featuring the Monkey King.

- The game's release has sparked national pride and interest in China's cultural exports.

- The involvement of major companies like Tencent highlights the close ties between the gaming industry and the Chinese government.