Essential Tips for New Black Myth Wukong Players

Black Myth Wukong is one of the most challenging games of 2024. Based on the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, it combines classic RPG mechanics with soul-like elements for a satisfying mix of combos and dodging in combat. It also invites players to step into the shoes of the Destined One, a monkey-like protagonist who fights with a staff.

This fantastic adventure can be a tough nut to crack. The various systems, enemies, and mechanics can be challenging, especially for new players to both Black Myth Wukong and the soulslike genre. That’s where we come in. To help you get started, we’ve gathered together some of the most useful beginner’s tips we could find, so you can start your journey (to the west) off on the right foot.

Death is not the end

Unlike many traditional soulslike games where dying can mean losing valuable resources, this game allows you to keep all of your in-game currency and items after you die. This means you can focus on mastering the combat mechanics and learning from each enemy encounter without a series of frustrating setbacks. You can view each fight as an opportunity to learn how to play better without the constant threat of losing your progress hanging over your head.

Draw power from your staff and postures

Your staff is your primary weapon, and you can switch between different stances to accommodate different play styles. As you progress, you’ll unlock stances like the aggressive Smash stance and the defensive Thrust stance. Each stance offers unique advantages, allowing you to tailor your approach to different combat scenarios and bosses. Mastering the ability to quickly switch stances on the fly and string together combos will allow you to respond to enemy attacks more effectively. It’ll become second nature after your first few hours of play, but only if you focus on learning.

Let the glowing embers guide you

Getting around Black Myth Wukong can be frustrating, since there’s no traditional map. However, there is a unique navigational aid in the form of glowing embers, much like the light that points from Sites of Grace save points in Elden Ring. These paths will lead you to important locations like the Keeper’s Shrines, where you’ll find much-needed checkpoints and more. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for these embers to find side quests, collectibles, and secret areas. It’s a good idea to keep an eye out for them wherever you go so that you have a chance to unlock everything the game has to offer.

Use Keeper’s Shrines and Talent Points to improve yourself

The Keeper’s Shrines mentioned above are essential for yourself, as they allow you to:

• Rest to replenish health and resources
• Travel between discovered sanctuaries
• Brew and craft to earn items and upgrades

You can also use the Self-Advance option while in Keeper’s Shrines. This allows you to allocate your Talent Points to the skills and perks the game deems most important, reducing the amount of guesswork you have to make to upgrade your gear.

If possible, find places to meditate

Meditation spots are scattered throughout the game and offer more than just a place to rest and reflect. They also provide free skill points that come with no strings attached. Find these spots, usually off the beaten path and marked by a modest pyre with a burning flame, and meditate (no combat required) for a quick and easy way to earn extra skills and refine your character.

Find enemy patterns and avoid them accordingly

As with other Souls games, it’s very useful to pay close attention to enemy attack patterns. Understanding their movements will help you predict attacks and find openings for counterattacks. You can also master timing to become better at dodging. Perfectly timed dodges prevent damage and give you extra opportunities to deal heavy damage to enemies. Practice your timing to master this strategy, which can turn the tide of battle in your favor. You never know when learning simple dodges could turn a tough encounter into a breeze.

Mix and match bottles for tasty combinations

The game’s flask system allows you to create powerful item combinations that restore health and provide buffs, similar to Elden Ring’s wondrous flask item. Experiment with different potions and soaks to find a mix that works well for your personal playstyle. You may gain an edge in particularly difficult fights or encounters, so keep an eye out for buffs and healing that can better prepare you for the more challenging parts of your journey. If you’re being stymied by a particularly tough boss, a new flask combination can even the odds — or dull the boss’s lead enough to finish them off.