Why the Xbox Delay for Black Myth: Wukong Isn’t About Platform Limitations
September 9, 2024Xbox Delay for Black Myth: Wukong continues.
Since its reveal, Black Myth: Wukong has generated massive excitement in the gaming community, with its action-packed gameplay and stunning visuals. Initially launched on PC and PS5, the Xbox version has been delayed, leading to plenty of speculation. Fans have wondered whether Xbox’s hardware limitations might be the cause, but Microsoft has reiterated that platform restrictions are not to blame. So, what’s really going on with this anticipated release?
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Addressing the Rumors: No “Platform Limitations” for Xbox
With no official release date for the Xbox version, rumours have surfaced that Black Myth: Wukong may have been delayed due to issues with Xbox hardware—specifically the Xbox Series S. Some fans speculated that Game Science, the developers behind the game, struggled to optimize the title for the lower-powered Series S, contributing to the delay. Others even suggested that PlayStation had snagged an exclusivity deal, making the game a timed exclusive for Sony’s platform.
However, Microsoft was quick to squash these rumours. In a recent statement provided to Forbes, a Microsoft representative clarified that the delay of Black Myth: Wukong was not due to “platform limitations.” Microsoft further emphasized their ongoing collaboration with Game Science to ensure the game’s launch on Xbox Series X|S, without commenting on deals between Game Science and other platform holders.
This statement aligns with a similar comment previously made to Windows Central, where Microsoft asserted that any speculation regarding hardware issues on Xbox is unfounded. They are fully focused on bringing the game to their platforms and are confident in its eventual release.
Speculation About PlayStation Exclusivity
While Microsoft has been transparent in addressing hardware concerns, there is still uncertainty surrounding the possible exclusivity deal with PlayStation. Industry insiders have debated whether the delay is due to an arrangement that gives PlayStation early access or exclusivity rights to the title. Forbes and IGN have both suggested that a PlayStation exclusivity deal might explain the hold-up for the Xbox version, but no official statements from Game Science or PlayStation have confirmed this.
At this point, it remains a mystery why Xbox players are left waiting, but Microsoft’s reiteration suggests the game will eventually arrive on their consoles.
Sales and Future Expectations
Despite the Xbox delay, Black Myth: Wukong has already enjoyed considerable success. Within three days of its initial release on PC and PS5, the game sold 10 million copies. This figure is expected to rise even further once it becomes available on Xbox, opening the door to even more players. Given its incredible early performance, there’s little doubt that Black Myth: Wukong will continue to be a best-seller across all platforms.
The game’s massive appeal lies in its unique blend of traditional Chinese mythology with modern action RPG mechanics. Players control Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, in a beautifully rendered world full of challenging bosses, complex combat, and striking environments.
The Delay: Still No Clear Date
As of now, there’s no official release date for Black Myth: Wukong on Xbox Series X|S, though fans are hopeful that the wait won’t be much longer. The continuous updates from Microsoft indicate that the platform holder is dedicated to making the game available for Xbox players as soon as possible, but only when it’s fully optimized and ready for launch.
Though no one likes waiting, it’s better that Game Science takes the time needed to ensure the game is polished and performs at its best on all platforms. After all, Black Myth: Wukong has been touted as a technical marvel, and ensuring the best possible experience for all players—whether on PlayStation, PC, or Xbox—should remain a priority.
What to Expect on Xbox
When Black Myth: Wukong finally hits Xbox consoles, players can expect the same high-quality experience that has already garnered praise on other platforms. The game will likely maintain its signature features:
- Intense combat: Players will face off against powerful enemies, utilizing a combination of martial arts, magic, and weaponry.
- Stunning visuals: Black Myth: Wukong has been praised for its beautiful landscapes, fluid animations, and detailed character designs, offering an immersive journey through Chinese mythology.
- Deep narrative: Inspired by the classic novel Journey to the West, the story follows Sun Wukong’s adventures, blending traditional Chinese folklore with new twists and exciting gameplay.
With these features, it’s easy to see why fans are so eager for the Xbox release, and why the game’s delay has generated so much discussion.
A Matter of Time, Not Hardware
All in all – while the delay of Black Myth: Wukong on Xbox has stirred up plenty of rumours, Microsoft has made it clear that platform limitations are not the issue. Whether the hold-up is due to an exclusivity deal or other factors, the game is still expected to launch on Xbox Series X|S in the near future. With its fantastic reception on PC and PS5, there’s little doubt that Xbox players are in for a treat when they finally get to step into the world of Sun Wukong.