The global gaming industry has witnessed a new phenomenon with the release of China’s latest video game sensation, Black Myth Wukong. This immersive single-player action game has taken the world by storm, captivating gamers with its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and rich storytelling rooted in Chinese mythology. However, despite its global popularity, Black Myth Wukong remains largely inaccessible to African gamers. This article explores the reasons behind this limited availability and the opportunities for African gamers to experience this groundbreaking game.
What is Black Myth Wukong?
Black Myth: Wukong is an immersive single-player action game which was released on August 19, 2024. Developed by Game Science, Black Myth: Wukong delves into the rich realm of Chinese mythology. Players assume the role of “the Destined One,” an anthropomorphic monkey imbued with supernatural powers, inspired by the legendary Sun Wukong, or Monkey King, from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. The game draws heavily from Chinese mythology, folklore, and literary classics, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage.
The groundbreaking success of Black Myth: Wukong has sent shockwaves through China’s gaming industry, inspiring investors and developers to aim higher. Black Myth’s overnight sensation status and impressive sales figures – 8.4 million copies sold within three days, generating over $400 million in revenue – have proven that a Chinese AAA title can compete on the global stage.
China’s Gaming Industry: A Global Powerhouse
China’s gaming industry has emerged as a global powerhouse, driven by a combination of government support, technological advancements, and a vast user base. With a market worth over $40 billion, China is now the world’s largest gaming market, surpassing the United States. Tencent Holdings, NetEase, and Huawei are some of the key players in China’s gaming industry. The Chinese government has actively supported the gaming industry through initiatives such as the “Made in China 2025” plan, which aims to promote the development of high-tech industries, including gaming.
Africa’s Gaming Market Potential
Africa’s gaming industry is on the cusp of a revolution. With a growing middle class, increasing internet penetration, and a young population, the continent is poised to become a significant player in the global gaming market. It is expected to grow from $200 million in 2020 to over $1 billion by 2025, according to a report by Newzoo. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of smartphones, improved internet connectivity, and a growing demand for digital entertainment.
More than 90% of gamers in Africa use mobile phones
Mobile gaming is the most popular format in Africa, accounting for over 90% of the market. This is due to the widespread use of smartphones and limited access to PCs and consoles. Popular mobile games such as PUBG Mobile, Clash of Clans, and Candy Crush Saga have millions of players across the continent.
Factors contributing to the game’s limited availability in Africa
The popularity of Black Myth: Wukong in Africa is limited due to several factors. One major reason is that more than 90% of African gamers rely on their mobile phones for gaming, and the game Wukong which is currently selling on major gaming platforms does not have a mobile version. This means that many potential players in Africa may not be able to access the game due to the inability to access such gaming platforms.
Another significant factor is the “streamer gap”. In Western countries, social media platforms and streaming services like Twitch, TikTok and YouTube have created a vast audience for gaming content. However, in Africa, this ecosystem is still developing, making it harder for games like Black Myth: Wukong to reach a wider audience. As a result, the game’s popularity in Africa is hindered by the lack of influential streamers and content creators who can showcase its engaging gameplay and rich narrative.
What are African gamers missing on China’s Wukong?
The less popularity of Black Myth: Wukong in Africa means that most gamers are missing out on the unique cultural exchange experience. Black Myth: Wukong offers a fascinating perspective on Chinese mythology, which could enrich African gamers’ understanding of Chinese culture and traditions. The game also exhibits some famous Chinese ancient towns which could make African gamers experience a bit of China without even having to travel there.
African gamers are also missing out on gaming innovation. The game’s cutting-edge technology and gameplay mechanics could inspire African game developers to create innovative games. This could lead to the growth of the gaming industry in Africa, with new and exciting games being developed locally.
Moreover, African gamers are missing the chance to connect with global players and join a vibrant gaming community. By playing Black Myth: Wukong, they could share tips, strategies, and experiences with others who share similar interests. This lack of access to the game means that African gamers are excluded from a global conversation and community that could enhance their gaming experience.
What next?
The limited access to international games in Africa is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. African gamers are missing out on a wide range of exciting gaming experiences.
To address this issue, African gaming platforms, developers, and distributors must work together to make these games more accessible to African gamers. This can be achieved through partnerships between African and international game developers to distribute games in Africa.
Creating mobile versions of these games is another way to increase accessibility. Many African gamers rely on mobile phones for gaming, so having mobile versions of international games can help reach a wider audience.
Finally, providing support to help the gaming industry in Africa can also help bridge the gap. This can include investing in local game development, providing training and resources for African game developers, and creating infrastructure to support the growth of the gaming industry in Africa. By working together, African gamers can access and experience a wider range of international games.
In conclusion, Black Myth Wukong’s limited availability in Africa is a missed opportunity for African gamers to experience a unique cultural exchange, gaming innovation, and global community engagement. To address this issue, African gaming platforms, developers, and distributors must collaborate to make international games more accessible to African gamers. By working together, we can bridge the gap and unlock the full potential of Africa’s growing gaming market. The time is now to bring Black Myth: Wukong and other international games to Africa, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant gaming community that transcends borders.
I’m a Master’s Student at Renmin University Of China, studying Contemporary Chinese Studies. I am an alumnus of the University of Ghana, where I was a former executive of the Chinese Students Association Ghana. My interest in the Chinese language drives my passion for studying in China, its rise to global power, and how it relates to the international world, especially African Countries.
