2024 has been a monumental game with some record breaking successes. But none have been as big and unprecedented like Black Myth: Wukong.
Gamers have witnessed some colossal titles in 2024, but none of them have become as big as Black Myth: Wukong. Despite being a new and relatively underdog title, this action-adventure epic from Game Science has taken the world by storm.
The game is undeniably 2024’s biggest hit. | Image Credit: Game Science
And according to a new report from Tokyo Game Show 2024, the game has reportedly sold 20 million copies in its first month alone. While its Game of the Year (GOTY) status is still a topic of debate, Black Myth: Wukong’s overwhelming sales figures alone make it clear that it’s
Black Myth: Wukong Is The Biggest Game of 2024
Black Myth: Wukong’s sales figures are nothing short of impressive. The game launched in August 2024 and sold 10 million copies within its first three days alone, quickly doubling that number by the end of its first month. This performance puts the game among the fastest-selling titles in history
Ken Kutaragi noted Black Myth Wukong sold 20 million copies in a month. pic.twitter.com/LC5zbQiMmv
— Dean Takahashi (@deantak) September 26, 2024
For context, games like Grand Theft Auto V and Elden Ring didn’t manage to get that level of sales. The developer has also confirmed plans to release downloadable content (DLC) by early 2025, which could give the game another significant sales boost and extend its reign into the new year.
Of the three million concurrent players at launch, approximately 2.4 million were on PC. This is most likely due to its large appeal in the Chinese market. Console gaming was banned in China until 2015, which likely explains the game’s stronger presence on PC compared to PlayStation 5. The confirmed future release on Xbox is expected to propel its sales even further.
Based on Journey to the West, one of China’s most revered pieces of literature, the game blends mythological storytelling with challenging action sequences. Though it has been compared to games like Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree, Wukong’s unique design and particularly its focus on one-on-one boss encounters has given it a distinct identity.
But Will It Be Game of the Year? We’ll Have to Wait and See
If fans could decide, it’d already be crowned. | Image Credit: Game Science
Despite its success, Black Myth: Wukong faces stiff competition in the race for Game of the Year. Titles such as Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, Helldivers 2, and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree are also strong contenders. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth initially led community polls but has since been passed by Wukong.
Game Science and Black Myth Wukong are now bigger than Ubisoft in top game sales.
Black Myth Wukong sells 20 million units in the first month, according to Sony and 10 million in the first 4 days alone.
By comparison, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla took 2 years to reach the same… pic.twitter.com/0Hv3z9sPWM
— Grummz (@Grummz) September 26, 2024
Games that release earlier in the year, like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, have had more time to build a player base and influence voter perception, which could work against Wukong when it comes to official awards.
In a year filled with top-tier releases, Black Myth: Wukong has managed to carve out its own path to success. While it faces stiff competition from other major titles, its commercial dominance is undeniable.
Whatever the outcome at the Game Awards, there’s no denying that Black Myth: Wukong has already won in one key area: sales domination. With its upcoming DLC and possible Xbox release, the game could continue its upward trajectory well into 2025.
What game do you think will win GOTY 2024? Let us know in the comments!