Black Myth: Wukong Desperately Needs Better Gender and LGBTQIA+ Representation

[Grav]

I’ve been following the development of Black Myth: Wukong with great interest, as many of you probably have. The game looks visually stunning, with a promising story rooted in Chinese mythology and folklore. However, as we draw closer to the release, I've become increasingly concerned about the blatant sexism and the complete absence of LGBTQIA+ representation in the game. It's disappointing, and I think we need to talk about this.

Firstly, let's address the obvious: the portrayal of female characters. From what we've seen in trailers and teasers, the game heavily leans into traditional, hypersexualized depictions of women. Female characters, when they do appear, seem to be there primarily to serve as eye candy rather than fully fleshed-out, complex individuals. This is not only a tired trope but a harmful one.

Gaming has long struggled with sexism, and it’s frustrating to see a game with so much potential fall into the same traps. Black Myth Wukong is a game that’s supposed to represent rich cultural narratives, yet it feels like women are still relegated to the sidelines, playing stereotypical roles that do nothing to enhance the story or offer meaningful representation.

The developers had a chance to create a diverse and inclusive world, but instead, it appears they opted for outdated and sexist character design. The lack of strong, independent female characters who aren’t sexualized is a glaring issue that can’t be ignored.

Moving beyond sexism, another pressing issue is the complete lack of LGBTQIA+ representation. In 2024, it's no longer acceptable for a game—especially one with as much visibility as Black Myth Wukong—to exclude such a significant and diverse group of people. Representation matters, and it’s crucial that all players feel seen and included in the games they play.

LGBTQIA+ characters and storylines are not just optional extras or “nice-to-haves.” They are essential for creating a world that truly reflects the diversity of human experience. By ignoring LGBTQIA+ identities, the developers are perpetuating a harmful norm that assumes heteronormativity as the default and erases the existence of countless individuals who deserve to be represented.

It’s disheartening to see such a rich narrative opportunity wasted. Imagine how much more powerful and engaging the story could be if it included characters of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. The myths and folklore that inspire the game are full of transformation, fluid identities, and complex relationships—these themes are ripe for exploration in ways that could be incredibly affirming and inclusive for LGBTQIA+ players.

Some might argue that the game is based on traditional Chinese folklore, and therefore doesn't need to include modern concepts like LGBTQIA+ representation. However, this argument falls flat for several reasons.

First, mythology and folklore are not static; they evolve and are reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary values and understandings. Just as modern retellings of myths in other cultures have embraced more inclusive narratives, so too should this game.

Second, representation isn’t about shoehorning modern ideas into ancient stories; it’s about recognizing the diversity that has always existed, even if it wasn’t explicitly recorded. LGBTQIA+ people have existed in every culture and time period, even if their stories have often been suppressed or ignored. By including LGBTQIA+ characters and themes, the game could actually enrich the story, making it more relevant and resonant with today’s audiences.

I urge the developers to take these concerns seriously and to make the changes necessary to ensure that Black Myth Wukong isn’t just another game that perpetuates harmful stereotypes but is instead a beacon of progress in the gaming industry. We can and should demand better from the games we play.

[Amélie]

I think it would be perfect if they can add a "gender" choice for your character, not seeking more :)
I'm a girl player and that's all I want. I want to play as female character and female adapted armors and dresses etc. It's a part of my experience in a game. It's also fine if I just purely experience it as another person, if the game is fun. But I really wish they would've added gender choice in RPGs.

[Tenzin C]

There wasn't a LGBTQ community in 16th century China upon which this game is based. Let alone having a LGBTQIA+ why do you think you have the right to change one of the most famous Chinese literature and turn it into something else and literally destroy the historical value of it?
This is a Chinese game based upon a novel from the 16th century your whole LGBTQIA+ did NOT exist in the 16th centure nor do they need to change the historic value for you it is either you play the game or you don't.
Stop pushing your western "values " upon other people we are Asians Chinese not westerners we live how we want to live and make games how we like to make them you trying to push your LGBTQIA+ ideology upon other races shows that you yourself is not about diversity but about opressing others to your own likening. if you want to care about LGBTQIA+ is fine with me but do not push it upon others and certainly don't demand the altering of histtorical novels that are not even from your country and distort the entire historical value of it so you can be happy with your LGBTQIA+ while the overly vast majority will be unhappy with it because it destroyed our culture and historic value.
This game is not catererd to you the world doesn't revolve around you and it also doesnt revolve around LGBTQIA+

[Ryugo]

Originally posted by Grav:

@Ted
Thanks for the game recommendation! I’ll definitely check it out. But let’s not stray from the main issue here—Black Myth: Wukong needs to step up when it comes to diversity and inclusion. It’s frustrating that in 2024, we still have to ask for basic representation in such a high-profile game. Also, I’m genuinely confused about this whole "jester farming" thing. All I’m asking for is more inclusivity in games. Why is that such a big deal? Diversity isn’t a trend; it’s a necessary part of modern storytelling.

How about no, you clown. Want inclusivity in games? Then go make your own damn game. DEI can rot for all i care, it kills narratives and is the Nachzehrer that sucks the soul out of games.

[undefined]

Just another wokie demanding other cultures embrace their very specific beliefs and values.

This one's extra special though, because it actually has the nerve to claim that another people's cultural mythology and legends should change and conform to those beliefs and values as well. Unreal.

So instead of celebrating China's first AAA game, your ilk are condemning it for not conforming to your own cultural beliefs. Humans are sick. Some things never change.

Also Disney displays overly muscular man-meat to be gawked at by all, but something tells me you're okay with that. It's those poor helpless women who need to be protected, right? Careful, your empathy gap is showing!

[Grav]

Originally posted by Hadley:

Just another wokie demanding other cultures embrace their very specific beliefs and values.

This one's extra special though, because it actually has the nerve to claim that another people's cultural mythology and legends should change and conform to those beliefs and values as well. Unreal.

So instead of celebrating China's first AAA game, your ilk are condemning it for not conforming to your own cultural beliefs. Humans are sick. Some things never change.

Also Disney displays overly muscular man-meat to be gawked at by all, but something tells me you're okay with that. It's those poor helpless women who need to be protected, right? Careful, your empathy gap is showing!

Ah, I see we’ve got a cultural gatekeeper here, fiercely protecting myths and legends like they’re some sacred relic that can’t be touched by modern sensibilities. The irony is almost too much. Adaptation and reinterpretation are how stories stay relevant—if we clung to every original version, we’d still be stuck with outdated, harmful views. The whole point of storytelling is to reflect the audience it’s meant for, and right now, that audience is diverse, inclusive, and progressive.

As for your Disney example, I’m guessing you’re referring to Star Wars: Acolyte. That show is a fantastic example of how to take a beloved universe and bring it into the modern era with progressive values and a wide array of representation. It’s not about “protecting” women—it’s about giving everyone, regardless of gender or background, the representation they deserve. The fact that you’re so triggered by the idea of updating ancient stories for today’s world says a lot more about your narrow mindset than anything else.

So, instead of clinging to the past and fearing progress, maybe try embracing it. It’s not about erasing cultural history; it’s about making sure that history is relevant and inclusive for everyone in 2024, not just those who are stuck in a time warp.

[Hostis globalismi americani.]

Nobody cares about this american woke imperialism.

[Karite]

Go find another game then, this game doesn't need to check boxes for you when other games are doing it. If Wukong is not for you then don't buy it, you don't get to cry and ♥♥♥♥♥ and moan about what you want in this game. If the devs agreed it would be there, they do not because they understand what makes a good game and product. Now go find the games you are looking for and leave this space to those of us who are capable of media literacy and enjoying a good ass game. Go support Concord and Dustborn, they're burning alive right now cause people like you are using all your energy in spaces that would rather you shut up.

[Seraphim]

Are you trolling? You can't be real with your woke shenanigans.

[Sepums]

Originally posted by Grav:

Ah, I see we’ve got a cultural gatekeeper here, fiercely protecting myths and legends like they’re some sacred relic that can’t be touched by modern sensibilities. The irony is almost too much.

I see you are only responding to aggressive comments and ignoring real ones. You are actually a troll. Enjoy the 800 points you got from the jester awards.

If you still care however, please read the comment by ynxhistory. In fact, let me quote it for you in case you're too lazy to go back one page.

Originally posted by ynxhistory:

Firstly, regarding the portrayal of female characters, your article mentions that the women in the game are overly sexualized and lack depth and independence. However, this criticism may overlook the cultural background and narrative needs of the game. "Black Myth: Wukong" is adapted from Chinese ancient mythology and the classic literary work "Journey to the West." In Chinese mythology and culture, the image and role of female characters have certain traditional characteristics, which do not necessarily align with modern Western representations of gender. If the game stays true to the original work and cultural context, some traditional character portrayals might be out of respect for the source material rather than an intentional denigration of women. We should understand cultural differences and historical contexts instead of imposing judgments from a modern Western perspective.

Secondly, your article criticizes the lack of LGBTQIA+ representation in the game, considering it an issue that should not be ignored. However, the acceptance and cultural background of LGBTQIA+ representation vary greatly around the world. In China, the public expression and acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community are still limited. Therefore, expecting a game based on Chinese classical literature and culture to include LGBTQIA+ content may not be realistic. Additionally, such a demand might overlook the rights of cultural works to self-expression, and forcibly adding elements that do not belong to the original work or cultural context might weaken the story’s integrity and authenticity.

Lastly, your article suggests that myths and folklore can be reinterpreted through the lens of modern values, a viewpoint that indeed has its validity. However, reinterpretation does not mean that all cultural works must cater to modern values. Each culture has its unique history, traditions, and values, which we should respect rather than demanding they conform to specific modern standards.

[charlie_uniform]

Asian people are even more underrepresented, and you don't care.

[REhorror]

Originally posted by charlie_uniform:

Asian people are even more underrepresented, and you don't care.

This.

Or even hispanics.

Diveristy clown = black pipo.

[bla]

Like many others, I've been on the left my entire life, and this new far-left 'woke' movement has destroyed the left side of politics and pushed me to the middle, and I'll no longer vote Democratic.

The woke movement revolves around hypocrisy. It's social justice warriors who think they are making the world a better place, but they’re doing the opposite and calling anyone racist, misogynist, or phobic if they have a different opinion. They are making the problems in the world worse- not better.

I have a degree in psychology and sociology, and I'm quite sure the more racism towards white people becomes acceptable, the more racism towards POC will increase. The same with how sexism towards men increasing will cause all problems of sexism to increase. This movement will make the world worse. It's already happening.

They are all just fighting fascism by spreading and using fascist tactics. It's exceptionally funny. The Republicans used to be the funny people to watch in American Politics, but now the far left has become just as ridiculous and hateful.

1. Sex/gender being taught to pre-pubescent kids.
2. children getting gender surgery when their identity isn't even fully developed yet, which could be called a form of child abuse.
3. biological men in women's sports,
4. Fighting sexism by being sexist
5. Fighting racism by being racist
6. saying there's an endless amount of genders which makes the LGBTQ community look like a circus,
7. shows/films/games having no respect for source material & sci-fi/fantasy is being destroyed,
8. the 'defund' the police movement sounds so stupid that it takes away from the importance of police 'reform',
9. environmental protestors stopping pedestrian cars and pissing off normal people trying to get to work is clearly turning people away from the need for environmentalism rather than helping the cause,
10. Racism towards 'so-called white' people becoming socially acceptable,
11. the left seems to support war as much as the right if not more nowadays,
12. also-forcing people to use the 'they' pronoun even when they don't believe in the concept,
13. which gets to one of the most important problems with the 'woke' movement which is that it is clearly a threat to 'freedom of speech', and I believe freedom of speech to be so extremely important.

[UserNotFound]

Heard that Wukong is getting review bombed at Metacritic (NOT that I pay any attention to any mainstream gaming or review site) with scores of 1 to 2 out of 10. You know these are losers who don't actually own the game, they just wanna trash a good game, much like threads here from yahoos wanting 'representation' and 'LGBTQIA++++' added.

I'm so glad Game Science's a China company, and a based one at that, IF it were a western developer, they would have caved to these loud, but so few, minority who are beating their chests and pulling at their hair at the perceived 'injustice' in their delulu minds.

The accusations by Rebekah Valentine of IGN, that Game Science developer was sexist is based on mistranslation done by an ethnic Chinese who's from Singapore. I'm an ethnic Chinese, so I know the colloquialism used by China Chinese cannot be translated literally, which was what this white hating feminist had done.

Whether intentional or not, I can't say, but it suited their narrative so they went with it, not bothering to do their due diligence by having the translations checked by a real translator from China. who would understand the lingo used to a degree that the Singaporean translator can't. Yet, these yahoos from IGN do not possess the integrity to admit that they'd mistranslated the Game Science text, or self awareness that they were wrong. Instead they chose to double down on their mistranslations, these mainstream media sites just cannot be trusted any more.

[Grav]

Originally posted by Sepums:

I see you are only responding to aggressive comments and ignoring real ones. You are actually a troll. Enjoy the 800 points you got from the jester awards.

It's actually 1600 points lil bro

[Lord Poshname Von Plumbingparts]

No. No it doesn't.