Black Myth: Wukong vs Diablo IV

• Perspective: Third-Person
• Multiplayer: Single-player Only
• Setting: Ancient China, Journey to the West Mythology
• Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows (PC - Steam, Epic Games Store), Xbox Series X/S (TBA), GeForce Now
• Initial Release (PS5, PC): 2024-08-20
• Unique Feature: Based on 'Journey to the West', stunning UE5 visuals, deep combat with staff stances, spells, and transformations, challenging Soulslike boss battles.

• Perspective: Isometric (Top-Downish Third-Person)
• Multiplayer: Online Co-op (up to 4 players), Shared World, PvP Zones (Fields of Hatred)
• Setting: Sanctuary (Fractured Peaks, Scosglen, Dry Steppes, Kehjistan, Hawezar)
• Platforms: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
• Unique Feature: Shared Open World Sanctuary, Deep Class Customization & Paragon System, Legendary Aspect Crafting, Dark Gothic Atmosphere, Seasonal Content Model.

• None (Primarily Solo): The game focuses on the Destined One's solo journey. While you might interact with NPCs or summon temporary allies through spells (like 'A Pluck of Many'), there are no persistent, controllable companions in the traditional RPG sense.

• Necromancer Minions (Skeletons, Golem): The Necromancer class can summon and command various undead minions. Skeletal Warriors (Skirmishers, Defenders, Reapers), Skeletal Mages (Shadow, Cold, Bone), and a powerful Golem (Bone, Blood, Iron). These minions automatically attack enemies and can be customized and upgraded through the Book of the Dead and skill tree.
  Undead Construct
• Druid Companions (Wolves, Ravens, Vine Creeper): The Druid class can summon animal companions. Wolves fight alongside the Druid. Ravens passively attack enemies and can apply Vulnerability. Vine Creepers poison enemies or provide active abilities. These companions are part of the Druid's skill set and can be enhanced.
  Animal / Plant Spirit
• Sorcerer/Sorceress Conjurations (Hydra, Ice Blades, Lightning Spear - Temporary): While not persistent pets, Sorcerers can conjure temporary magical allies like Hydras that spit fire, Ice Blades that seek enemies, or Lightning Spears that zap foes. These are active spells with durations.
  Magical Construct
• Online Co-op Party Members (Other Players): In online cooperative play, players can team up with up to three other players (forming a party of four). Teammates fight alongside each other, can revive downed allies, and synergize their class abilities to tackle challenging content like Dungeons, World Bosses, or Helltides. Trade is limited.
  Human (Player Characters - Various Classes)
• Story-Specific NPC Allies (Temporary & Contextual): During certain main story quests or significant side quests, key NPC characters like Lorath Nahr or Donan will temporarily accompany the player character, providing combat support (though often less impactful than player companions) and crucial dialogue. Their presence is scripted for those mission segments.
  Human (e.g., Lorath Nahr, Donan, Neyrelle)

• Meditation Spots: Specific locations in the game world where the Destined One can meditate to gain skill points, used for unlocking or upgrading abilities in the skill trees.
• Curios: Equippable accessory items found throughout the world or as rewards. They provide passive buffs, resistances, or unique gameplay effects. Example: Wind Chimes (Deluxe Edition).
• Gourd Upgrades / Ingredients: Items related to customizing and enhancing the healing gourd, allowing players to choose different types of concoctions for health recovery or other temporary buffs. Ingredients for crafting these are likely found via exploration and defeating enemies.
• Celestial Medicines / Attribute Enhancers: Rare consumables or items that permanently increase the Destined One's core attributes like health, mana (for spells), or stamina (Focus Points for staff techniques).
• Relics: Key story items or powerful artifacts collected after major boss fights or chapter completions, potentially granting significant passive bonuses or unlocking new progression paths. The main quest involves collecting relics tied to Sun Wukong.
• Lore Items / Story Fragments: Objects, scrolls, or environmental details that provide deeper insights into the game's narrative, the mythology of the world, and the backstories of characters and enemies.

• Legendary Items & Aspects: Dropped by enemies (especially Elites and Bosses), found in chests, obtained from gambling with Obols, or as rewards from events and quests. Legendary items have powerful unique Aspects that can be extracted at the Occultist and imprinted onto Rare or other Legendary items. Collecting and optimizing Aspects is key to build crafting.
• Unique Items (Including Uber Uniques): Extremely rare and powerful items with fixed, often build-defining, unique properties that cannot be modified or extracted. Dropped from high-level content, specific bosses, or have very low drop rates. Uber Uniques are the rarest and most powerful items in the game.
• Altars of Lilith: Hidden statues of Lilith scattered throughout all regions of Sanctuary. Interacting with each one for the first time grants a small, permanent stat boost (e.g., +Strength, +Dexterity, +Max Obols, +Paragon Point) to ALL characters on the player's account within that realm (Seasonal/Eternal). Also grants Renown.
• Paragon Glyphs: Earned as drops, primarily from Nightmare Dungeons. These are socketed into Paragon Boards (unlocked after level 50) to provide powerful passive bonuses and stat increases within their radius. Glyphs can be leveled up by completing Nightmare Dungeons, increasing their power and radius.
• Waypoints: Teleportation points found in towns, settlements, and key locations across Sanctuary. Activating them allows for fast travel between discovered waypoints.
• Strongholds: Three per region. Heavily enemy-infested locations that, once conquered by defeating all enemies and a final boss/event, transform into friendly outposts, often unlocking new Waypoints, vendors, dungeons, or side quests.
• Codex of Power (Aspects from Dungeons): Completing specific Dungeons for the first time unlocks a baseline version of a Legendary Aspect in the Codex of Power. These aspects always roll with their minimum values but can be imprinted onto gear an unlimited number of times (at a cost).
• Side Quest Items & Lore Books/Notes: Various items required for completing side quests, or readable books, notes, and journals that provide lore about Sanctuary, its history, characters, and the ongoing conflict.
• Mounts & Mount Armor (Cosmetic/Utility): Mounts are unlocked via a quest. Various cosmetic horse breeds and mount armor sets can be acquired as drops, from vendors, or through the in-game shop.
• Titles & Emblems (Player Profile Customization): Unlocked by completing challenges, achievements, or progressing through the seasonal Battle Pass. Used to customize the player's visible profile.

• Chinese Mythology
• Journey to the West
• Martial Arts
• Transformation
• Buddhism
• Taoism
• Moral Ambiguity
• Nature & Mysticism
• Fate vs. Free Will
• Illusion vs. Reality
• Folklore

• Dark Fantasy & Gothic Horror
• Demonic Invasion & Eternal Conflict (High Heavens vs. Burning Hells)
• The Return of Lilith
• Corruption & Despair
• Ancient Evils
• Cults & Fanaticism
• Loot & Character Progression
• Shared World Experience
• Sanctuary's Lore

• The Staff (As-You-Will Cudgel / Ruyi Jingu Bang inspired): Primary Melee (Versatile Staff)
  The main weapon of the Destined One, a magical staff that can extend, shrink, and is used in conjunction with various combat stances (Smash, Pillar, Thrust). Its mastery is central to combat, allowing for a wide range of attacks, parries, and special moves.
• Bronzecloud Staff: Weapon (Staff Variant)
  An exclusive staff weapon included in the Digital Deluxe Edition. Likely offers a unique appearance and potentially different starting stats or properties.
• Transformed Abilities (as weapons): Situational Melee/Ranged/Special
  When transformed into various creatures or powerful beings, the Destined One gains access to their unique attacks and abilities, which serve as temporary 'weapons' or combat styles (e.g., a large demon's claws, a fire-breathing creature's breath).

• One-Handed Weapons (Swords, Axes, Maces, Daggers, Wands, Scepters): Melee / Caster
  Various one-handed weapons. Swords, axes, maces, and daggers are typically for melee classes (Barbarian, Rogue, Druid, Necromancer). Wands and scepters are often used by casters (Sorcerer, Necromancer) and can roll with spell-related affixes. Can be dual-wielded by Rogues or paired with an off-hand item/shield.
• Two-Handed Weapons (Swords, Axes, Maces, Polearms, Staves, Scythes): Melee / Caster (Heavy)
  Larger weapons dealing higher base damage. Two-handed swords, axes, maces, and polearms are for melee classes. Staves are for Sorcerers. Scythes are iconic for Necromancers. Typically prevent the use of an off-hand item.
• Ranged Weapons (Bows, Crossbows): Physical Ranged
  Used primarily by the Rogue class, but other classes might have specific builds or uniques that utilize them. Fire arrows or bolts.
• Off-Hand Items (Shields, Foci, Tomes): Defensive / Caster Utility
  Shields provide blocking and defensive stats. Foci and Tomes are held by casters and can provide significant offensive or utility stats, cooldown reduction, or resource generation for spells.
• Class-Specific Weapon Types (e.g., Totems for Druid, Scythes for Necromancer): Thematic / Unique
  Some weapon types are strongly associated with or exclusively usable by certain classes, often synergizing with their core skills and themes.
• Magical Affixes & Legendary Aspects: Weapon Enhancements
  All weapons (except Common) roll with magical affixes (e.g., +Strength, +Critical Strike Chance, +Damage to Vulnerable). Legendary weapons also have a powerful Legendary Aspect that significantly alters a skill or provides a unique effect. These aspects can be extracted and imprinted onto other items.
• Gems (Socketable): Weapon Augmentation
  Weapons can have sockets where gems (Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds, Diamonds, Amethysts, Skulls, Topazes) can be inserted to provide specific offensive or utility bonuses (e.g., damage over time, crowd control duration, basic skill damage, ultimate damage, critical strike damage to crowd controlled enemies).

• Folk Opera Armor Set: A cosmetic armor set included in the Digital Deluxe Edition, consisting of the Folk Opera Mask, Folk Opera Almsgiving Armor, Folk Opera Leather Bracers, and Folk Opera Buskins. Provides a distinct visual style.
• Various Equipment Pieces: Players can equip different pieces of gear that likely influence stats such as defense, resistances, or provide passive bonuses. The game features distinct slots for equipment like masks, armor, bracers, and buskins.

• Helms: Head armor. Provides Armor value and various magical affixes (e.g., +Max Life, +Cooldown Reduction, +Ranks to specific Skills, Resistances). Can have sockets for Gems.
• Chest Armor: Body armor. Provides the highest base Armor value of all pieces and significant magical affixes (e.g., +Damage Reduction, +Total Armor, +Ranks to Skills, Thorns). Can have sockets.
• Gloves: Hand armor. Provides Armor and magical affixes often related to offensive stats (e.g., +Attack Speed, +Critical Strike Chance, +Lucky Hit Chance, +Ranks to Skills). Can have sockets.
• Pants: Leg armor. Provides Armor and magical affixes often focused on defensive or utility stats (e.g., +Damage Reduction from Close Enemies, +Potion Capacity, +Movement Speed after Elite Kill). Can have sockets.
• Boots: Foot armor. Provides Armor and magical affixes typically related to movement and utility (e.g., +Movement Speed, +Evade Charges, +Damage Reduction while Injured). Can have sockets.
• Amulets: Necklace slot. Does not provide Armor but offers powerful magical affixes (e.g., +Ranks to Passive Skills, +Critical Strike Damage, +Resource Generation, Movement Speed, Cooldown Reduction). Can have sockets.
• Rings (x2): Finger slots (two can be equipped). Do not provide Armor but offer significant magical affixes (e.g., +Critical Strike Chance, +Vulnerable Damage, +Resource Cost Reduction, +Lucky Hit Chance). Can have sockets.
• Legendary Aspects: Found on Legendary items (Orange rarity). These provide powerful, often class-specific or build-defining effects that can be extracted at the Occultist and imprinted onto Rare or other Legendary items (replacing their existing aspect). Key to build customization.
• Unique Items: Gold/Brown rarity items with fixed, powerful, and often build-altering unique properties that cannot be modified or extracted. Some are class-specific. Uber Uniques are extremely rare and powerful versions.
• Gems (Socketable): Can be socketed into gear with open sockets to provide specific defensive bonuses (e.g., Rubies for +Max Life in Armor, Sapphires for +Damage Reduction while Fortified in Armor, Skulls for +Armor).

• Folk Opera Outfit: A full cosmetic outfit included in the Digital Deluxe Edition, comprising a Mask, Almsgiving Armor, Leather Bracers, and Buskins. Offers a unique traditional opera-inspired aesthetic.
• Default Attire (The Destined One): The primary appearance of the player character. It's likely that other armor pieces or outfits can be found or crafted in the game, affecting both appearance and stats, though extensive cosmetic customization beyond distinct sets isn't confirmed as a major feature.

• Armor Sets (Helms, Chest Armor, Gloves, Pants, Boots): Players equip five main pieces of armor that determine their defensive stats and often contribute significantly to their visual appearance. Armor sets often have a cohesive visual style (e.g., bone armor for Necromancers, heavy plate for Barbarians, leather for Rogues, robes for Sorcerers, nature-themed gear for Druids). Higher rarity items (Legendary, Unique) have distinct, often elaborate appearances.
• Cosmetic Transmogrification (Wardrobe System): Diablo IV features a Wardrobe system that allows players to save the appearance of any armor piece they have collected. They can then transmogrify their currently equipped gear to look like any saved appearance, allowing for full fashion customization without sacrificing stats. This applies to all armor slots.
• Weapon Appearances (Tied to Item & Transmog): The appearance of equipped weapons also changes based on the specific item. Like armor, weapon appearances can be saved and transmogrified onto other weapons of the same type.
• Character Customization (Creation & In-Game Shop): At character creation, players can customize their character's face, hairstyle, hair color, skin tone, markings (tattoos, jewelry, makeup). Additional cosmetic items like character emotes, mount armor, town portal skins, and some armor appearances are available through the seasonal Battle Pass or purchasable from the in-game microtransaction shop (cosmetic only, no power advantages).
• Mount Customization (Mount Armor, Trophies): Players can acquire various cosmetic armor sets for their horse mount, as well as trophies that hang from the saddle. These are unlocked through gameplay or purchased from the shop.

Black Myth: Wukong is not an open-world game but features large, distinct levels divided into chapters, each with its own environmental theme (e.g., forests, deserts, snowy mountains). While levels offer branching paths and exploration, the overall progression is more linear, comparable in structure to games like Sekiro. The game does not provide a traditional player map, encouraging environmental observation. Fast travel is available via 'Keeper's Shrines' (checkpoints).

• Mount (Horse - Various Breeds & Cosmetics): Primary Land Traversal
  Players unlock a horse mount by completing a specific priority quest in Act IV. Mounts significantly speed up travel across the vast open world of Sanctuary. Various horse breeds (cosmetic) and mount armor/trophies (cosmetic) can be acquired through gameplay, challenges, or the in-game shop. Mounts have a short dash ability and can perform a dismount attack.
• Waypoints (Fast Travel Network): Map Traversal Mechanic
  Numerous Waypoints are located in towns, settlements, and key points of interest throughout Sanctuary. Once a Waypoint is discovered and activated, players can instantly travel to it from any other activated Waypoint or from the world map, greatly reducing travel time.
• Town Portals (Scroll of Town Portal - Limited): Utility / Return Travel
  While not a vehicle, players can use a Town Portal (either via an unlimited hotkey with a cooldown, or historically via consumable scrolls in past games) to quickly return to the nearest major town/hub from anywhere in the open world or dungeons. This is essential for selling loot, repairing gear, and accessing services.
• Traversal on Foot (Walking, Running, Evade/Dash): Player Locomotion
  Standard on-foot movement for exploring dungeons, navigating combat, and detailed areas. Characters can walk, run (no separate sprint button, movement speed is base), and use an Evade/Dash ability (with charges and cooldown) for quick repositioning or dodging attacks. Some classes have additional movement skills (e.g., Sorcerer's Teleport, Rogue's Dash).

• The Destined One: Protagonist / Monkey Warrior
  The main playable character, a skilled monkey warrior on a quest to uncover the truth behind the legend of Sun Wukong and the events of 'Journey to the West'. Wields a magical staff and can master various spells and transformations.
• Sun Wukong (The Monkey King / Great Sage Equal to Heaven): Central Lore Figure / Legendary Hero
  The iconic protagonist of 'Journey to the West'. In Black Myth: Wukong, his legend is central to the plot, and the Destined One's journey is deeply intertwined with Wukong's past and fate.
• Erlang Shen (Yang Jian): Antagonist / Major Boss / Celestial General
  A powerful deity from Chinese mythology, known for his third eye and formidable combat prowess. Appears as a major antagonist and challenging boss fight in the game.
• Bull Demon King (Niu Mowang): Antagonist / Major Boss / Demon Lord
  A powerful demon lord from 'Journey to the West', an old acquaintance turned adversary of Sun Wukong. Features as a significant boss with his own domain and storyline.
• Red Boy (Hong Hai'er): Antagonist / Major Boss / Fire-wielding Demon
  The son of the Bull Demon King and Princess Iron Fan, known for his mastery of Samadhi Fire. Appears as a challenging boss with a storyline connected to his parents.
• Various Yaoguai (Demons & Monsters): Enemies / Bosses
  A diverse bestiary of demons, monsters, and spirits (Yaoguai) drawn from Chinese folklore and 'Journey to the West', each with unique designs, abilities, and backstories. They serve as common enemies and challenging boss encounters.
• Zhu Bajie (Pigsy - Mentioned/Implied): Supporting Character (from lore)
  One of Sun Wukong's companions in 'Journey to the West'. While his direct prominent role in the game's plot for the 'Destined One' is less clear than Wukong's, he is a key figure from the source material.

• Player Character (Customizable Wanderer - Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, Sorcerer): Protagonist / Nephalem (Implied)
  A customizable character who becomes entangled in the events surrounding Lilith's return. Their journey involves confronting demonic forces, navigating faction politics, and potentially shaping the fate of Sanctuary. Each class offers a distinct playstyle and narrative flavor.
• Lilith (Daughter of Hatred / Mother of Sanctuary): Main Antagonist / Creator Figure
  Daughter of Mephisto, Lord of Hatred, and co-creator of Sanctuary with the archangel Inarius. She is summoned back to Sanctuary and seeks to free humanity from the Eternal Conflict between Heaven and Hell, though her methods are extreme and manipulative. The primary driving force of the main story.
• Inarius (Archangel): Antagonist Figure / Former Creator of Sanctuary
  A former archangel of the Angiris Council who, along with Lilith, created Sanctuary. He was exiled and imprisoned but returns with a fanatical desire to rejoin the High Heavens, viewing Lilith and her plans as an obstacle. Leads the Knights Penitent.
• Lorath Nahr: Ally / Horadrim Scholar / Narrator
  One ofthe last surviving members of the Horadrim order. He is an elderly, wise scholar who guides the player character, providing historical context, lore, and assistance in understanding the threats facing Sanctuary. Acts as a key narrative voice.
• Donan: Ally / Horadrim Scholar / Grieving Father
  A former Horadrim and friend of Lorath, now a reclusive figure living in Scosglen, grieving the loss of his son. He possesses crucial knowledge and resources that aid the player.
• Neyrelle: Ally / Young Scholar
  A young, intelligent, and resourceful woman accompanying Lorath. She is skilled in research and seeks to understand the ancient evils threatening Sanctuary, though she is sometimes reckless.
• Taissa: Ally / Druid of Scosglen (If player is Druid or interacts)
  A key figure within the Druid circles of Scosglen, involved in quests related to the region's spiritual imbalance and demonic corruption.
• Prava: Antagonist Figure / Leader of the Cathedral of Light in Kyovashad
  The devout and stern leader of the Cathedral of Light in Kyovashad, representing the dominant faith in the Fractured Peaks. She is wary of Lilith's influence but also of outsiders like the player.
• Elias (Pale Man): Antagonist / Follower of Lilith / Former Horadrim
  A former Horadrim scholar who becomes a key servant of Lilith, orchestrating events to aid her return and plans. A recurring antagonist.
• Various other NPCs (Townsfolk, Faction Members, Quest Givers): Supporting Cast / World Flavor
  Sanctuary is populated by numerous other characters who provide quests, services, or contribute to the world's atmosphere and lore.

• The Destined One's Journey (Main Campaign)
  A chapter-based main storyline where the player, as the Destined One, ventures through various mythical locations to uncover the truth behind Sun Wukong's legend and collect powerful relics. This involves navigating challenging environments, solving light puzzles, and defeating numerous enemies and powerful bosses inspired by 'Journey to the West'.
• Yaoguai Hunts / Boss Battles
  Confronting and defeating a wide array of Yaoguai (demons/monsters), including over 70-80 distinct boss encounters. Each boss typically has multiple phases and unique attack patterns, requiring strategic use of stances, spells, and transformations. Defeating them often yields new abilities (Spirit Skills) or key items.
• Exploration and Secret Finding
  Traversing large, detailed levels to discover hidden paths, optional boss fights, collectibles (like Meditation Spots, Curios, Gourds), lore entries, and upgrade materials. The game encourages thorough exploration of its distinct environments.
• Mastering Abilities and Transformations
  Acquiring and upgrading a variety of spells, staff stances, and transformation abilities. Certain encounters or environmental challenges may require specific abilities or transformations to overcome, encouraging experimentation and mastery of the available toolkit.

• Main Campaign Questline (The Return of Lilith)
  A multi-act narrative following the player character's journey across Sanctuary to stop Lilith, Daughter of Hatred, and her plans. This involves investigating her influence, confronting her key followers (like Elias), allying with the Horadrim (Lorath Nahr, Donan), and ultimately facing Lilith herself. Features cinematic storytelling and major boss encounters.
• Side Quests (Regional Stories & Character Vignettes)
  Numerous optional quests found throughout Sanctuary's five regions. These offer self-contained storylines, delve into local lore, explore the struggles of ordinary people, or provide more insight into the game's factions and history. Rewards typically include XP, gold, gear, and Renown.
• Priority Quests (Class-Specific & Key Unlocks)
  Quests that unlock significant gameplay features or are specific to the player's chosen class. This includes quests to unlock mounts, class specializations (e.g., Barbarian's Arsenal System, Druid's Spirit Boons), or access to end-game systems like Nightmare Dungeons or the Occultist.
• Dungeons (Standard & Nightmare Tiers)
  Explore and clear over 100 unique instanced dungeons scattered across Sanctuary. Each dungeon has specific objectives (e.g., slay all enemies, destroy structures, return Animus to a pedestal) and a final boss. Completing a dungeon for the first time often unlocks a Legendary Aspect in the Codex of Power. Nightmare Dungeons are empowered, higher-difficulty versions accessed via Nightmare Sigils, featuring challenging affixes and rewarding Paragon Glyph XP.
• Strongholds
  Conquer three heavily enemy-infested locations in each of the five major regions. This involves defeating waves of enemies, a final boss or event, and then rekindling a Wanderer's Shrine. Liberating a Stronghold transforms it into a friendly outpost, often unlocking new Waypoints, vendors, dungeons, or side quests in the area. Also grants significant Renown.
• World Bosses (Ashava the Pestilent, Avarice the Gold Cursed, Wandering Death, Death Given Life)
  Participate in timed, large-scale public encounters against massive bosses that spawn at specific locations in the open world. Requires multiple players to defeat within a time limit. Rewards include high-quality loot, Legendary items, and weekly bonus caches.
• Legion Events (Gathering Legions)
  Timed public events where players must defend against waves of demons and defeat Overlords to earn rewards and Obols. Multiple players are typically needed for efficient completion.
• Helltide Events
  Participate in region-wide demonic invasions that occur in World Tier 3 and above. Defeat empowered enemies to collect Aberrant Cinders, which are then used to open Tortured Gifts (special chests) scattered throughout the Helltide zone for a chance at targeted Legendary items, Forgotten Souls, and Fiend Roses.
• Tree of Whispers (Grim Favors)
  An end-game system where players complete various bounties (Grim Favors) marked on the map (e.g., clear a specific dungeon, defeat enemies in an area, collect items from corpses). Earning 10 Grim Favors allows the player to return to the Tree of Whispers for a choice of reward caches containing gear and experience.
• Seasonal Questlines & Activities
  Each new season introduces a unique storyline and associated gameplay mechanics or activities that players can engage with on their seasonal characters. Completing these progresses the seasonal journey and unlocks season-specific rewards and Battle Pass tiers.

Available editions include: Digital Standard Edition ($59.99 USD), Digital Deluxe Edition ($69.99 USD - includes base game, Bronzecloud Staff weapon, Folk Opera Mask, Folk Opera Almsgiving Armor, Folk Opera Leather Bracers, Folk Opera Buskins, Wind Chimes curio, and selected digital soundtrack). Physical Deluxe Edition (PC, $169 USD) and Collector's Edition (PC, $399 USD - includes a 40cm Wukong figurine) have also been available, though primarily for PC and potentially with regional limitations. Pre-order bonus was the Trailblazer's Scarlet Gourd.

Available in Standard Edition, Digital Deluxe Edition (included early access to Open Beta, Light-Bearer Mount, Caparison of Faith Mount Armor, Inarius Wings & Murloc Pet in D3/WoW, Amalgam of Rage Mount in WoW, Umber Winged Darkness Cosmetic Set in DI, and Premium Seasonal Battle Pass Unlock), and Ultimate Edition (Deluxe content + Accelerated Seasonal Battle Pass Unlock with 20 Tier Skips and Wings of the Creator emote). Various pre-order bonuses were also offered.

Diablo IV follows a seasonal live-service model. Each season (typically lasting around 3 months) introduces new gameplay mechanics, questlines, a seasonal journey with objectives, a battle pass (free and premium tracks with cosmetic rewards and season boosts), new legendary aspects, unique items, and balance changes. The first major paid expansion, 'Vessel of Hatred,' is announced for late 2024, featuring a new region, class, and story continuation.

• Q: What is Black Myth: Wukong?
  A: Black Myth: Wukong is an action RPG based on the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West'. Players control the 'Destined One,' a monkey warrior, and embark on a quest to uncover hidden truths, battling formidable foes using staff combat, spells, and transformations.
• Q: When was Black Myth: Wukong released?
  A: Black Myth: Wukong was released on August 20, 2024, for PlayStation 5 and Windows (PC). The Xbox Series X/S version is planned for a later date.
• Q: What platforms is Black Myth: Wukong available on?
  A: Currently, it's available on PlayStation 5 and PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store). An Xbox Series X/S version is expected later. It's also playable via GeForce Now.
• Q: What is the gameplay like in Black Myth: Wukong?
  A: It's a challenging Soulslike action RPG with a focus on third-person melee combat using a staff. Gameplay involves mastering different stances, utilizing a variety of spells, and transforming into powerful creatures or defeated enemies. It requires precise timing for attacks, dodges, and parries ('Rock Solid' spell).
• Q: Is Black Myth: Wukong an open-world game?
  A: No, it is not a fully open-world game. It features large, distinct levels organized into chapters. While these levels offer exploration and branching paths, the overall structure is more linear. There is no traditional in-game map provided to the player.
• Q: Is Black Myth: Wukong single-player or multiplayer?
  A: Black Myth: Wukong is a single-player only experience for the base game. There are no official multiplayer modes.
• Q: What is the story based on?
  A: The story is deeply rooted in the 16th-century Chinese novel 'Journey to the West,' one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. It draws heavily from its characters, mythology, and themes.

• Q: Is Diablo IV an always-online game?
  A: Yes, Diablo IV requires a persistent internet connection to play, even for solo content. This is due to its shared open world, seasonal structure, and online social features.
• Q: How many playable classes are there in Diablo IV?
  A: At launch, Diablo IV features five playable classes: Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, and Sorcerer. A sixth class, the Spiritborn, will be introduced with the 'Vessel of Hatred' expansion.
• Q: What is the Renown system?
  A: Renown is a progression system tied to exploring and completing activities within each of Sanctuary's five major regions. Earning Renown (by discovering areas, waypoints, strongholds, side quests, dungeons, Altars of Lilith) unlocks account-wide rewards for that realm (Seasonal/Eternal), such as extra skill points, potion charges, Paragon points, and Obol capacity.
• Q: What are Helltides?
  A: Helltides are timed, region-wide events that occur in the end-game (World Tier 3 and above). During a Helltide, a specific region becomes more dangerous with stronger demons and environmental hazards. Players collect Aberrant Cinders from defeated enemies to open Tortured Gifts (special chests) that contain valuable loot, including crafting materials like Forgotten Souls and Fiend Roses, and have a higher chance for Legendary items.
• Q: Are there PvP zones in Diablo IV?
  A: Yes, Diablo IV features designated PvPvE zones called Fields of Hatred. In these areas, players can attack each other. Defeating other players or monsters yields Seeds of Hatred, which must be purified at an Altar of Extraction to convert them into Red Dust. Red Dust is a currency used to purchase cosmetic rewards. Players carrying unpurified Seeds can be killed and looted by others.
• Q: How does the seasonal content work?
  A: Diablo IV follows a seasonal model (typically lasting 3 months). Each season introduces new gameplay mechanics, a seasonal questline, new legendary aspects and unique items, a seasonal journey with objectives, and a Battle Pass with free and premium tracks offering cosmetic rewards and gameplay boosts (like Smoldering Ashes for XP/gold buffs). Players typically create a new seasonal character to participate, though some progress (like Altars of Lilith, map discovery) can carry over from the Eternal Realm.
• Q: What is the end-game like in Diablo IV?
  A: The end-game primarily revolves around progressing through World Tiers (unlocking higher difficulties and better loot), farming Nightmare Dungeons to level up Paragon Glyphs, participating in Helltide events, defeating World Bosses, completing Whispers of the Dead bounties, engaging in PvP in the Fields of Hatred, and tackling seasonal content. The ultimate challenge is defeating Uber Lilith.

Developed using Unreal Engine 5, Black Myth: Wukong is acclaimed for its stunning visual fidelity, highly detailed character models (especially fur rendering), breathtaking environments inspired by Chinese landscapes and art, realistic particle effects, and advanced lighting. It supports modern graphical technologies like NVIDIA DLSS and ray tracing (though ray tracing might be more optimized in post-launch patches).

Powered by a heavily updated Blizzard engine, Diablo IV showcases a dark, gritty, and highly detailed visual style, returning to the more gothic aesthetic of earlier Diablo games. Features realistic character models, gruesome enemy designs, detailed environments with dynamic weather and lighting, and impactful spell/ability effects. The game aims for a more grounded and visceral presentation of Sanctuary.

The game features a rich soundtrack that blends traditional Chinese instrumentation with epic orchestral scores to create an atmospheric and immersive audio experience complementing the mythology and intense combat. Voice acting is available in Chinese (Mandarin) and English.

Original score composed by Ted Reedy and Leo Kaliski, featuring dark, orchestral, and atmospheric themes that capture the grim and gothic tone of Sanctuary. Music is dynamic, building intensity during combat and creating a sense of dread or melancholy during exploration. Sound design emphasizes visceral combat impacts, distinct monster vocalizations, environmental ambience, and satisfying loot drop sounds.

Features a clean and immersive UI typical of Soulslike action RPGs, focusing on combat information such as health, stamina (Focus), mana, equipped spells/abilities, and enemy status. Contextual prompts appear for interactions and special moves. No persistent mini-map is provided.

Features a classic ARPG HUD displaying health and resource (e.g., Mana, Fury, Spirit) globes, an action bar for equipped skills, potion charges, and a mini-map. Inventory is grid-based. Skill tree, Paragon board, character sheet, map, and quest log are accessed via menus. Extensive tooltips explain skills, stats, and item properties.

Specific accessibility options include customizable controls and support for various upscaling technologies (DLSS, FSR, XeSS) which can help players with performance. Further details on comprehensive accessibility features (e.g., advanced subtitle options, colorblind modes, gameplay modifiers) would require in-game review.

Offers a range of accessibility options, including extensive control remapping (PC), subtitle and text size customization, colorblind modes, options for screen shake reduction, persistent targeting options, skill toggle vs. hold options, button remapping for controllers, and audio cues for important gameplay elements like loot drops.

• Official PC system requirements for 'Black Myth: Wukong'. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, driver versions, and in-game settings. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal performance. DLSS/FSR/XeSS are supported and recommended for higher settings or resolutions.
• Laptop Performance Note: Black Myth: Wukong is a graphically demanding title. Achieving a smooth and visually appealing experience on a laptop requires a powerful, modern gaming laptop. Laptop GPUs, even those sharing a model name with desktop counterparts (e.g., 'RTX 4070'), typically operate at lower power levels (TGP - Total Graphics Power) and are subject to chassis thermal constraints, resulting in different performance. The details below provide estimated laptop component tiers, but **actual performance can vary significantly based on the specific laptop model's TGP, cooling solution, CPU, RAM, and even software configuration (e.g., performance modes, drivers).** It is crucial to research reviews of specific laptop models if you are targeting optimal performance in this game.
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P Impact: The Total Graphics Power (TGP) allocated to a laptop GPU is a primary determinant of its performance. For example, an RTX 3060 Laptop GPU can range from 60W to 115W+, with higher wattages delivering substantially more power. Always aim for laptops specifying higher TGP values for their GPUs if Black Myth: Wukong is a priority. Check manufacturer specifications and reviews.
• Laptop Consideration: Advanced Cooling Thermals: Sustained high performance generates significant heat. Laptops with advanced cooling systems (e.g., vapor chambers, multiple heat pipes, high-airflow fans, liquid metal anointment) are better equipped to prevent thermal throttling, which can severely reduce framerates during long gaming sessions. Ensure good airflow around the laptop and consider a cooling pad.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Performance Sustain: While the GPU is often the main bottleneck, a capable CPU (e.g., Intel Core H/HX series, AMD Ryzen HS/HX series from recent generations) that can maintain its boost clocks without significant power or thermal throttling is essential to feed the GPU frames efficiently, especially in a game with complex AI and potentially CPU-intensive physics or world streaming.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Configuration Speed: Beyond capacity (16GB minimum, 32GB recommended for higher settings), ensure the RAM is running in a dual-channel configuration. RAM speed (e.g., DDR4-3200MHz vs DDR5-4800MHz+ or higher) can also provide noticeable performance benefits in CPU-bound scenarios or for overall system responsiveness and reduced stuttering.
• Laptop Consideration: Display Panel G P U Pairing: Consider the laptop's display resolution (1080p, 1440p, 4K) and refresh rate (e.g., 120Hz, 144Hz, 165Hz+). A high-refresh-rate panel is desirable for smoother motion, but the GPU must be powerful enough to drive frames at that rate at your desired settings. A GPU suitable for 1080p might struggle significantly at 1440p native resolution on a laptop without aggressive upscaling.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch N V I D I A Advanced Optimus: Laptops equipped with a MUX switch or supporting NVIDIA Advanced Optimus allow the dedicated GPU to connect directly to the internal display, bypassing the integrated graphics. This can provide a significant performance uplift (typically 5-15%, sometimes more in certain titles) by reducing latency and ensuring the dGPU's full potential is utilized.
• Laptop Consideration: Driver Updates O S Optimization: Always use the latest official GPU drivers from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel for optimal performance, bug fixes, and game-specific profiles. Ensure Windows is updated and configured for gaming performance (e.g., Game Mode enabled, appropriate power plans selected, background applications minimized).
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, and Intel XeSS. Utilizing these upscaling technologies is highly recommended across all tiers, especially on laptops, to achieve target framerates while maintaining good visual quality, particularly at resolutions above 1080p or when enabling demanding features like Ray Tracing.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Effects Quality, Anti-Aliasing, Ray Tracing settings (if applicable), and Foliage/View Distance significantly impact performance. Fine-tuning these settings in conjunction with upscaling is key to a good experience.
• Game Name: Black Myth: Wukong

• Official PC system requirements from Blizzard Entertainment. Performance can vary significantly depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially with many enemies, particle effects, or in busy towns), and background applications. An SSD is MANDATORY. Higher settings and resolutions require powerful hardware.
• Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **Diablo IV is a demanding title, particularly at higher settings or resolutions, due to its detailed environments, numerous enemies, and complex visual effects.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense dungeon crawls or world boss fights.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for managing numerous enemies, AI, physics, and online interactions.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance significantly.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS (Super Resolution & Frame Generation - DLSS 3), AMD FSR 2, and Intel XeSS.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Shader Quality, SSAO, Fog Quality, Clutter Quality, Water Simulation, Anti-Aliasing, and Particle Effects heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher resolutions/settings.
• Game Name: Diablo IV

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, and Intel XeSS. Utilizing these upscaling technologies is highly recommended across all tiers, especially on laptops, to achieve target framerates while maintaining good visual quality, particularly at resolutions above 1080p or when enabling demanding features like Ray Tracing.
• Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Effects Quality, Anti-Aliasing, Ray Tracing settings (if applicable), and Foliage/View Distance significantly impact performance. Fine-tuning these settings in conjunction with upscaling is key to a good experience.

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS (Super Resolution & Frame Generation - DLSS 3), AMD FSR 2, and Intel XeSS.
• Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Shader Quality, SSAO, Fog Quality, Clutter Quality, Water Simulation, Anti-Aliasing, and Particle Effects heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher resolutions/settings.

• G P U T G P Impact: The Total Graphics Power (TGP) allocated to a laptop GPU is a primary determinant of its performance. For example, an RTX 3060 Laptop GPU can range from 60W to 115W+, with higher wattages delivering substantially more power. Always aim for laptops specifying higher TGP values for their GPUs if Black Myth: Wukong is a priority. Check manufacturer specifications and reviews.
• Advanced Cooling Thermals: Sustained high performance generates significant heat. Laptops with advanced cooling systems (e.g., vapor chambers, multiple heat pipes, high-airflow fans, liquid metal anointment) are better equipped to prevent thermal throttling, which can severely reduce framerates during long gaming sessions. Ensure good airflow around the laptop and consider a cooling pad.
• C P U Performance Sustain: While the GPU is often the main bottleneck, a capable CPU (e.g., Intel Core H/HX series, AMD Ryzen HS/HX series from recent generations) that can maintain its boost clocks without significant power or thermal throttling is essential to feed the GPU frames efficiently, especially in a game with complex AI and potentially CPU-intensive physics or world streaming.
• R A M Configuration Speed: Beyond capacity (16GB minimum, 32GB recommended for higher settings), ensure the RAM is running in a dual-channel configuration. RAM speed (e.g., DDR4-3200MHz vs DDR5-4800MHz+ or higher) can also provide noticeable performance benefits in CPU-bound scenarios or for overall system responsiveness and reduced stuttering.
• Display Panel G P U Pairing: Consider the laptop's display resolution (1080p, 1440p, 4K) and refresh rate (e.g., 120Hz, 144Hz, 165Hz+). A high-refresh-rate panel is desirable for smoother motion, but the GPU must be powerful enough to drive frames at that rate at your desired settings. A GPU suitable for 1080p might struggle significantly at 1440p native resolution on a laptop without aggressive upscaling.
• M U X Switch N V I D I A Advanced Optimus: Laptops equipped with a MUX switch or supporting NVIDIA Advanced Optimus allow the dedicated GPU to connect directly to the internal display, bypassing the integrated graphics. This can provide a significant performance uplift (typically 5-15%, sometimes more in certain titles) by reducing latency and ensuring the dGPU's full potential is utilized.
• Driver Updates O S Optimization: Always use the latest official GPU drivers from NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel for optimal performance, bug fixes, and game-specific profiles. Ensure Windows is updated and configured for gaming performance (e.g., Game Mode enabled, appropriate power plans selected, background applications minimized).

• G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
• Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense dungeon crawls or world boss fights.
• C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for managing numerous enemies, AI, physics, and online interactions.
• R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance significantly.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.