Chinese game developer Game Science stunned the global gaming community with a surprise reveal of Black Myth: Zhong Kui during Gamescom 2025's Opening Night Live. The announcement positions the studio as a trailblazer in culturally rich AAA game development following the record-breaking success of Black Myth: Wukong.
Building a Shared Mythology
The new title forms part of an ambitious plan to create an interconnected "Black Myth Universe" drawing from China's vast folklore traditions. Game Science co-founder Feng Ji revealed in a China Media Group interview: "We registered characters like Zhong Kui early to explore beyond Sun Wukong's story. Lesser-known legends give us creative freedom while honoring our cultural heritage."
Cultural Ambassador Through Gaming
Zhong Kui – a deity known as the "Ghost Eater" in Chinese mythology – represents a strategic choice to introduce global audiences to deeper aspects of Chinese culture. The studio reimagines the folklore figure, traditionally depicted in paintings and mobile games, through cutting-edge visuals and mature storytelling.
The Gamescom reveal demonstrated Game Science's marketing prowess, leveraging the event's global platform to generate immediate buzz. This follows their established pattern of high-impact announcements that blend cultural authenticity with blockbuster production values.
Industry analysts note the project reinforces China's growing influence in premium game development, combining technological innovation with narrative ambition. For players worldwide, it promises both thrilling gameplay and a gateway to understanding Chinese mythological traditions.
