Black Myth: Wukong

Release Date: August 20, 2024

Platforms: Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC

The game everyone has been calling Monkeysouls or Monkeyborne isn’t really a Soulslike—at least that’s what the PR person for Black Myth: Wukong tells me during my hands-on. And to be fair, though there are clear elements of FromSoftware inspiration at play here (including lighting incense at specific points to save your progress, craft, and respec your build), there is a distinctly more God Of War-y vibe to the combat. Pressing X on your controller will perform a light attack, and there’s a focus meter that you can build up with heavy attack. It’s easier than, say, Elden Ring or Dark Souls, but you’ll still face some tough enemies, and get some unique abilities like the chance to temporarily transform into a major boss you’ve bested who gets its own health bar. I definitely enjoyed my Black Myth: Wukong hands-on more than I thought I would. — Alyssa