let me tell you all guys what is yaoguai in black myth

[无敌齐老师]

In the world of video games, terminology often serves as a window into the cultural context from which a game arises. This is particularly evident in the Chinese-developed game "Black Myth: Wukong," where the term "yaoguai" is used instead of the more universally recognized "monster." The choice of this word is not arbitrary but deeply rooted in Chinese mythology, folklore, and the rich tapestry of traditional Chinese culture.

Definition of Yaoguai:
The term "yaoguai" is a compound word in Mandarin Chinese that combines "yao," meaning "demon," and "guai," meaning "strange or bizarre creature." Literally translated, yaoguai can be understood as demonic creatures or strange monsters. In Chinese folklore, yaoguai encompasses a wide range of supernatural beings with magical powers, often depicted as malevolent entities that cause harm to humans.

Origin of Yaoguai:
The concept of yaoguai has its origins in ancient Chinese beliefs and mythologies. Early Chinese civilization was filled with stories of various spirits and demons that were believed to inhabit the natural world. These beings were often associated with specific locations such as mountains, rivers, or forests, and they played significant roles in explaining natural phenomena or human misfortunes. Over time, these tales evolved and expanded, creating a rich pantheon of supernatural creatures collectively known as yaoguai.

Characteristics of Yaoguai:
Yaoguai are characterized by their shape-shifting abilities, magical powers, and often their malicious intent towards humans. They can take on various forms, from partially humanoid to completely bestial or even abstract and inanimate shapes. Their powers can include but are not limited to manipulation of elements, possession of humans, and the ability to change fate. Despite their varied nature, yaoguai are generally seen as forces to be reckoned with, often requiring heroic figures or divine intervention to subdue.

Cultural Influence of Yaoguai:
The influence of yaoguai extends beyond folklore into various aspects of Chinese culture, including literature, art, theater, and cinema. Classic literary works like "Journey to the West" feature these creatures prominently, with the protagonist Sun Wukong (the Monkey King) battling numerous yaoguai throughout his journey. In traditional Chinese opera and shadow puppetry, yaoguai are vividly portrayed with exaggerated features to emphasize their otherworldly nature.

Why Use "Yaoguai" Instead of "Monster":
The developers of "Black Myth: Wukong" opt for the term "yaoguai" rather than the more generic "monster" to immerse players in a setting that is authentically inspired by Chinese mythology. By using "yaoguai," the game taps into thousands of years of cultural heritage and evokes a sense of familiarity among Chinese players while offering a taste of exotic mythology to international audiences. It also allows for a more nuanced representation of adversaries within the game, as yaoguai possess unique characteristics and backstories that differ from Western notions of monsters.

In conclusion, the use of "yaoguai" in "Black Myth: Wukong" is a deliberate nod to the game's Chinese cultural foundation. It brings depth and complexity to the game's lore and enemies, allowing players to encounter creatures that are not merely monstrous in appearance but are imbued with the rich history and mythological significance of traditional Chinese beliefs.

[Verga.Tron]

Awesome stuff. My wife is Chinese and she is explaining all these details to me. super interesting.

[zero.calvin]

as far as my understand, yao or yui (妖) in cantonese doesnt necessarily means demon, it means evil... yaoguai direct translation is evil things or evil being, but the term is commonly used to describe monster, even in cantonese, in cantonese story, instead of yaoguai, yuiching (妖精) is used instead which direct translated to sentient evil... but also commonly use to describe demon in story. so wu lei ching (狐狸精), which direct translation is sentient fox, but it's commonly translated as fox demon.

this is just an opinion of a native cantonese speaker that cant read kanji.

[Rhobar Eisenblut 鉄血 ✠]

Thanks im always eager to learn folklore and background storys of mythical creatures from other countrys.

[SidneyBoo]

So... Monsters.

[doublejesus]

Thank you based China for killing off all the furries 10,000 years ago.

[zero.calvin]

Originally posted by doublejesus:

Thank you based China for killing off all the furries 10,000 years ago.

but you also kill off cat demon, which is whats basically a khajiit =D

[Zogtar]

I'm dumb and thought it meant bear for the longest time because of Fallout.

[zero.calvin]

Originally posted by Zogtar:

I'm dumb and thought it meant bear for the longest time because of Fallout.

not your fault.. i still dont understand why they call those mutant bears yaoguai in fallout 4

[vongogh]

Japanese uses the same Kanji 妖怪 Yōkai, from google translate: specter, apparition, ghost, phantom. I feel like it's more or less the same thing but with cultural differences, using the correct term adds that cultural flavor, context and... if they used "monsters", I think people might end up referring to them as "Chinese monsters", or in Yokai's case "Japanese monsters", which er... doesn't sound good.

[rscully]

So, Yaoguai is similar to Yokai in Japan? The latter being the influence of Pokemon.

[Margo]

Originally posted by rscully:

So, Yaoguai is similar to Yokai in Japan? The latter being the influence of Pokemon.

Yes, in written Japanese there're some kanji, which means Chinese character. Yaoguai & Yokai are totally same character both in Chinese & kanji.