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 did not come.
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“This was the first time China received nominations in such important categories as Best Action Game, Best Art Direction, Best Game Direction, and Game of the Year. Winning the awards for Best Action Game and Player's Voice was gratifying, but I must admit there was disappointment and regret. I felt like I came here for nothing!” Feng lamented.
He also criticized the TGA's evaluation criteria: “This year's nominees were all excellent, but I didn't understand what defined the winner of the Game of the Year category. The speech I wrote two years ago, while we were developing the game, wasn't even used.”
Challenges and triumphs during production
Feng highlighted the difficulties faced by the team throughout the seven years of development of Black Myth: Wukong , especially due to Game Science's inexperience with single-player games. “Many colleagues weren't optimistic during production, particularly 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 that our success was luck would be a mistake. This is the result of Chinese talent and our culture, which is now gaining visibility in a highly competitive market. I hope that other, better and more interesting Chinese stories can reach the world.”
A message of optimism and future plans
Despite the defeat, Feng shared a motivational 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 fine place and worth fighting for .
Currently available for PlayStation 5 and PC , Black Myth has already sold over 20 million units. The title is the first in a planned trilogy based on classic narratives from Chinese literature, with Journey to the West as the initial inspiration. The Xbox Series has been delayed indefinitely.
Reflections on the value of games
Feng concluded his statement by highlighting 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 showcases truth, kindness, and beauty.”
Although it didn't win the top prize, the cultural and commercial impact of Black Myth: Wukong solidified the game as a landmark in gaming history, especially for the Chinese industry.