In today’s digital age, where audiences are bombarded with information the power of storytelling has never been greater more crucial. The current gamers’ game — Black Myth: Wukong — stands out as a masterclass in engaging and enthralling millions around the world.

This game is steeped in Chinese mythology and inspired by the classic Chinese tale Journey to the West. It has captivated a global audience with a level of engagement that rivals – and in some ways surpasses – other juggernauts like God of War and Cyberpunk 2077. Its rich, immersive storytelling seems to resonate across cultures. Here are five takeaways that brand owners can learn from this immersive game:

The power of cultural resonance

Black Myth: Wukong has captivated a global audience by tapping into a story deeply rooted in Chinese mythology. Yet, its appeal is not limited to those familiar with the source material. The game’s creators have woven a tale that transcends cultural boundaries by focusing on universal themes like heroism, struggle and transformation.

Takeaway: To resonate with diverse audiences, brands should seek to tell stories that, while grounded in specific cultural or contextual frameworks, also address universal human experiences. This balance allows the narrative to be both authentic and widely relatable.

Visual storytelling as a universal language

One of the standout features of Black Myth: Wukong is its stunning visual design, which communicates the game’s narrative in a way that words alone could never achieve. From the detailed character designs to the atmospheric landscapes, every visual element contributes to the storytelling, drawing players deeper into the world of Wukong.

Takeaway: With attention spans shrinking, visual and animated storytelling is a powerful tool. Brands can use compelling visuals – whether through video, imagery, or interactive content – to effectively convey their message and evoke emotional responses. This is particularly effective when reaching global and diverse audiences, as visuals often transcend language barriers.

Building a mythos: creating a universe, not just a story

Black Myth: Wukong is not just a game; it’s an entire universe built around a well-known myth. The game developers have crafted a world with their own rules, characters and lore, inviting players to lose themselves within it. This approach not only heightens engagement but also builds a community of fans invested in the story and its outcomes.

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Takeaway: Brand owners should think beyond individual campaigns and focus on building a narrative universe. This means creating a consistent and evolving brand story that consumers can explore and engage with over time. By doing so, brands can cultivate a loyal community that is deeply connected to their narrative as well as share it with their networks.

Balancing authenticity and innovation

While Black Myth: Wukong draws from an ancient tale, it does so with a fresh and innovative approach. The game doesn’t just retell Journey to the West; it reimagines it for a modern audience, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology.

Takeaway: Authenticity is key in storytelling, but it doesn’t mean sticking to the same old narratives. Brands should strive to be both authentic and innovative, finding new ways to tell their stories that respect their heritage while appealing to contemporary audiences.

Engaging the audience

The interactive nature of gaming allows players to become active participants in the story of Black Myth: Wukong. This level of engagement fosters a deeper connection between the audience and the narrative.

Takeaway: brands should explore ways to turn their audiences from passive consumers into active participants. This could be through interactive content, user-generated stories, or immersive experiences that invite the audience to contribute to the brand narrative. Engagement nurtures loyalty, and loyalty drives long-term mutual success.

Final thoughts

Black Myth: Wukong is a great example of how powerful storytelling can capture the imagination of global audiences.

By drawing inspiration from its narrative techniques — cultural resonance, visual storytelling, myth-building, authenticity, innovation and audience engagement — brands can work with their communications partners to craft compelling stories that they own and share.

These stories, in turn, build awareness, foster connections and ultimately drive brand preference, intent and loyalty in an increasingly competitive and diverse global market.

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