Game Science has broken its year-long silence by releasing a massive 15-minute gameplay trailer for its next action RPG, Black Myth: Zhong Kui. The video arrives exactly a year after the project's initial announcement at Gamescom 2025, offering the first detailed look at the combat system, world exploration, and mythological bosses.
Key Release Information:
All new footage was recorded directly from the current work-in-progress build of the game. The main protagonist is a young swordsman traveling through a forest accompanied by an elderly man. The video showcases various gameplay situations: from playing traditional musical instruments and catching spirits to a massive battle with a water boss that has clam shell-like wings. Interestingly, during this battle, control temporarily shifts to another hooded character. The developers have not yet confirmed whether this indicates the presence of multiple playable characters.
The combat system has undergone significant changes compared to the studio's previous hit. Instead of the acrobatic staff movements characteristic of Black Myth: Wukong, the new protagonist relies on fencing with a Chinese straight sword (jian), martial arts, and heavy strikes. The hero actively uses dodges and counterattacks, can imbue his weapon with the power of fire, and also uses Taoist paper talismans in battle.
The literary foundation of the game has also changed. Unlike Sun Wukong, whose story is based on the novel Journey to the West, the mythology of Zhong Kui was formed over centuries through folklore, religion, and art.
In Chinese tradition, Zhong Kui is a legendary Taoist deity and demon hunter. According to legends from the Tang dynasty era, he was an incredibly talented scholar. However, he was denied an official position due to his frightening appearance. Following this, he took his own life and transformed into the King of Ghosts. His image has deep roots in Chinese culture: pictures of Zhong Kui are still traditionally hung on doors during the Lunar New Year for protection against evil spirits.
Given the phenomenal success of Black Myth: Wukong (over 30 million copies sold worldwide), attention to the developers' new project is extremely high. Next week, on August 25, the Opening Night Live ceremony will kick off as part of Gamescom 2026. Although Game Science has not officially confirmed its participation, the game was first announced at this very event last year.
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