China has found its new soft power tool
Released in August 2024, Black Myth: Wukong astonished the industry and solidified the position of Chinese productions on the global stage. Developed by Game Science, this AAA title, inspired by the novel Journey to the West, sold 10 million copies in three days, confirming China's status as a key player in the sector.
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Traditionally wary of video games, the Chinese government has radically changed its tune in the face of this unexpected success. State media outlets, such as CCTV and Xinhua, have, for example, described Black Myth: Wukong as a "cultural visa," capable of exporting Chinese heritage far beyond its borders. Compared to the cultural earthquake that was South Korean K-pop a few years ago, the Wukong phenomenon marks a turning point: China now sees this historically scorned medium as a major lever for consolidating its cultural influence.
Video games as a cultural weapon
This success contrasts sharply with Chinese mobile titles, often criticized for their microtransaction-based business model. Wukong, on the other hand, focuses on delivering a gaming experience on par with major Western and Japanese productions, showcasing polished storytelling, refined gameplay, and impressive graphics. By drawing on a narrative deeply rooted in Chinese culture, Wukong has managed to captivate a global audience while simultaneously bolstering national pride.
This approach is obviously not unique to China. During the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Assassin's Creed franchise also had its moment in the spotlight as part of the celebration of French history. Like Black Myth: Wukong, the Assassin's Creed series perfectly illustrates how a video game can become a cultural weapon, transforming a work of entertainment into a powerful vector of soft power.