Wukong Sun: Black Legend, a game currently available for pre-order on the US eShop, faces an uncertain future due to striking similarities to the acclaimed title, Black Myth: Wukong. While drawing inspiration is common in game development, Wukong Sun: Black Legend appears to borrow heavily from its predecessor, raising concerns about copyright infringement.
The visual style, the protagonist wielding a staff, and the plot synopsis bear a close resemblance to Black Myth: Wukong's established aesthetic and narrative. Wukong Sun's description reads: "Embark on an epic journey to the West. Play as the immortal Wukong, the legendary Monkey King, battling for order amidst chaos, powerful monsters, and deadly dangers. Explore a story inspired by Chinese mythology, featuring intense battles, breathtaking locations, and legendary foes." This echoes the core elements of Black Myth: Wukong's successful formula.
Black Myth: Wukong, a surprising hit from a small Chinese studio, captivated players with its detailed world, engaging gameplay, and challenging yet accessible combat system. The game's blend of action and RPG elements, presented with stunning visuals and fluid animations, garnered significant praise. Its combat system, while demanding skill, avoids overwhelming complexity, making it enjoyable for both veterans and newcomers. The game's immersive world and captivating character designs are frequently cited as its greatest strengths, leading many gamers to believe it deserved a "Game of the Year 2024" nomination at The Game Awards.
The similarities between Wukong Sun: Black Legend and Black Myth: Wukong are so pronounced that Game Science, the developers of Black Myth: Wukong, may pursue legal action for copyright infringement, potentially leading to the removal of Wukong Sun: Black Legend from the eShop. The outcome remains to be seen, but the controversy highlights the delicate balance between inspiration and outright imitation in game development.
