Black Myth: Wukong’s Controversial GOTY 2024 Nomination – A Closer Look

When Geoff Keighley announced the nominees for The Game Awards 2024, the list sparked the usual debates. But amidst the anticipated titles, Black Myth: Wukong stood out—not for its brilliance, but for being one of the lowest-rated Game of the Year (GOTY 2024) nominees in the event’s 10-year history. Scoring an 81 on Metacritic and an 82 on OpenCritic, Black Myth: Wukong has raised eyebrows, especially when GOTY contenders typically score well above 85.

So, how did a visually stunning but divisive game with allegations surrounding its developer land a coveted spot on this prestigious list?

The Numbers Game: Where Does Black Myth: Wukong Stand?

Historically, GOTY nominees boast impressive critical scores. Black Myth: Wukong’s 81-82 range places it alongside rare low-scoring nominees like PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (77 on OpenCritic) and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (85 on Metacritic). These games, while critically recognized, didn’t ultimately claim the top prize.

For comparison:

• 2014’s Winner: Dragon Age: Inquisition scored 85 on Metacritic, one of the lowest for a GOTY winner.
• 2020’s Nominee: Ghost of Tsushima scored 87, setting a low benchmark for that year.

This year also marks a unique trend: the average GOTY score has dropped, echoing 2021 when no nominee breached the 90-mark.

A Visual Masterpiece, But Repetitive

Critics generally agree that Black Myth: Wukong is a visually stunning experience, showcasing breathtaking graphics and artistic direction. However, its gameplay fell short of expectations. Many reviews describe it as a repetitive action-adventure whose dazzling aesthetics couldn’t fully compensate for mechanical monotony.

• The Positives: Immersive visuals, fluid combat animations, and a compelling adaptation of Chinese mythology.
• The Criticism: Lack of variety in gameplay and narrative depth, with several reviewers highlighting it as “style over substance.”

Despite its flaws, Black Myth: Wukong captured the imagination of gamers worldwide, partly because of its roots in the beloved Journey to the West mythology.

Controversy Surrounding Game Science

The controversy didn’t stop at the game’s mechanics. Developer Game Science came under fire following an IGN investigation in November 2023, which revealed allegations of sexism and misogynistic remarks within the studio. These allegations, including comments by CEO Feng Ji, cast a shadow over the game’s release.

Social media debates turned fiery, with Black Myth: Wukong becoming an emblem in culture wars, polarizing gaming communities. For some, supporting the game felt like endorsing its embattled developer. For others, it was a chance to separate the art from the artist.

Why the Nomination?

Despite the controversies and middling reviews, Black Myth: Wukong earned its nomination for several reasons:

1. Cultural Significance: It’s rare to see a AAA Chinese game reach this level of global recognition. The game’s nomination celebrates diversity in gaming, introducing audiences to rich Chinese folklore.
2. Technical Achievement: The game’s visuals and design push boundaries, demonstrating what’s possible with modern hardware.
3. Industry Momentum: Sometimes, a nomination isn’t just about scores—it’s about impact. Black Myth: Wukong made waves with its trailers, building anticipation that few games achieve.

The inclusion of Black Myth: Wukong in the GOTY lineup highlights shifting trends in the gaming industry. The Game Awards has increasingly emphasized cultural relevance and innovation, alongside traditional metrics like critical acclaim.

This year’s nominees may not have the highest collective scores, but they represent a broader spectrum of what gaming can be—artistic, ambitious, and sometimes polarizing.

While it’s unlikely to win GOTY, the nomination itself is a win for Game Science. It puts the studio on the global map, paving the way for potential growth and redemption. If the developers take feedback seriously, their next project could be a true masterpiece. Love it or hate it, Black Myth: Wukong has carved out a unique place in gaming history. Its nomination serves as a reminder that games are more than just numbers—they’re cultural artefacts that spark conversation, controversy, and, sometimes, change.

^{While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!}