Zhong Kui in Black Myth: Demon Queller Legend & Game Explained

For players diving into the exciting world of Black Myth, the recent announcement of Black Myth: Zhong Kui might have introduced a formidable new figure you're unfamiliar with. Unlike the rebellious Monkey King, Sun Wukong, Zhong Kui draws from a different, equally rich vein of Chinese folklore. Let's unravel the legend of this fascinating character.

Who is Zhong Kui?

Imagine a figure so righteous and powerful that his very image is used to scare away evil spirits. That is Zhong Kui. His story begins not as a god, but as a brilliant scholar.

The most famous legend tells us that Zhong Kui lived during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). He traveled to the capital to take the rigorous imperial examinations, which determined one's rank and future in government. Zhong Kui scored the highest marks, earning the title of Zhuangyuan (top scholar).

However, his triumph was stolen. The emperor denied him his rightful position because of his exceptionally fearsome and ugly appearance—described as having a dark face, bulging eyes, and a wild, bushy beard. In despair and outrage at this injustice, Zhong Kui committed suicide at the palace steps.

Upon hearing this tragic tale, a later emperor had a dream in which Zhong Kui appeared. He vowed to the emperor that he would dedicate his afterlife to hunting down and vanquishing evil spirits and demons, protecting the realm. The emperor, moved by his integrity, ordered him to be buried with high honors and declared him a divine protector. Thus, Zhong Kui was reborn as the "Demon Queller."

Appearance and Symbolism

Zhong Kui is instantly recognizable:

• Fierce Visage: His dark, scowling face and intense gaze are meant to terrify malicious ghosts. It’s the face of unwavering judgment.

• Scholar’s Robes & Judge's Hat: He often wears the robes of a scholar and the black hat of a judge, symbolizing his intellect and his authority to pass judgment on spirits.

• The Sword: His most common accessory is a powerful demon-slaying sword, used to execute evil beings.

• The Bat: In many paintings, a bat (fu) is seen near him. This is a pun in Chinese, as the word for "bat" sounds like the word for "fortune," making him a symbol of both protection and good luck.

Zhong Kui in Black Myth: Zhong Kui

The stunning CG trailer for the game perfectly captures his iconic essence. We see him not as a scholar, but as a formidable, silent judge astride a mighty tiger—another potent Chinese symbol of power and protection against evil. The atmosphere is heavy with mystery and menace. The two chattering imps at the beginning cry out, "The one who catches us is coming!"—a direct reference to Zhong Kui's primary role as the hunter of wicked spirits.

The poem shown in the trailer reinforces his character:

"The world has no ghosts? All demons are born from the human heart...
I raise my sword, I raise my sword, to distinguish right from wrong!"

This suggests the game will explore deep themes of justice, morality, and the idea that the truest monsters are often born from human flaws.

A Universe Expands

Following the monumental success of Black Myth: Wukong, Game Science is building a "Black Myth Universe." Zhong Kui is the next step, promising a darker, grittier experience rooted in ghost stories and moral dilemmas, distinct from the epic journey of the Monkey King.

Ready to Experience the Black Myth Universe?

The world of Black Myth is vast and incredibly immersive. If the tale of the defiant Monkey King or the grim judgment of Zhong Kui has captured your imagination, you can begin your journey right now.

For players looking to dive into Black Myth: Wukong at the best value, check out PL2W for the lowest prices across the web. It's the perfect place to secure your copy and prepare for the adventures that await before Black Myth: Zhong Kui arrives.

Get ready to witness a world where myth and darkness collide, and where a wronged scholar became the greatest demon hunter of all.