Feng Ji, director of Black Myth: Wukong and CEO of Game Science , expressed frustration with the outcome of The Game Awards 2024 , where the game lost the Game of the Year (GOTY) to Astro Bot . In a statement posted on social media, Feng revealed that he had prepared a speech for the win, but the award never came.
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"This was the first time China had received nominations in such important categories as Best Action Game, Best Art Direction, Best Game Direction, and Game of the Year. Winning Best Action Game and Player's Voice was gratifying, but I must admit I felt disappointed and regretful. I felt like I came here for nothing!" Feng said.
He also criticized the TGA's judging criteria: "This year's nominees were all excellent, but I didn't understand what defined the Game of the Year winner. The speech I wrote two years ago while we were developing the game wasn't even used."
Challenges and overcoming during production
Feng highlighted the challenges the team faced throughout the seven years of development of Black Myth: Wukong , particularly due to Game Science's inexperience with single-player games. "Many colleagues were not optimistic during production, especially after playing intermediate versions of the game, which had obvious flaws. My role was to reassure them that we were doing a good job and that we would continue to improve."
The director also commented on the game's impact on the global industry and Chinese culture: "To believe our success was luck would be a mistake. This is the result of Chinese talent and our culture, now gaining visibility in a highly competitive market. I hope other, better, more interesting Chinese stories can reach the world."
Message of optimism and future plans
Despite the defeat, Feng shared a motivating message. "I hope the story of Black Myth gives courage to those who are lost. May they continue forward with confidence and ambition, accepting uncertain outcomes and facing challenges with courage." He also quoted Ernest Hemingway: "The world is a good place, and it's worth fighting for .
Currently available for PlayStation 5 and PC , Black Myth has sold over 20 million units. The title is the first in a planned trilogy based on classic Chinese literary narratives, with Journey to the West serving as the initial inspiration. The Xbox Series has been delayed with no release date set.
Reflections on the value of games
Feng concluded his statement by emphasizing the power of games to transform lives. "The greatest value of a good game is to distribute happiness more equitably. Even in a world full of hardship and injustice, we must create content that shows truth, kindness, and beauty."
Although the top prize was not won, the cultural and commercial impact of Black Myth: Wukong solidified the game as a landmark in gaming history, especially for the Chinese industry.
