SPARK: Understanding Guangzhi's transformation from foe to friend

Black Myth: Wukong became a gaming sensation this year, selling an incredible 10 million copies in just three days after its August 20 release. It also made history by becoming the first Chinese game to get nominated in November for the Game of the Year (GotY) at The Game Awards (TGA) 2024.

The game puts players in an exciting journey inspired by the Chinese classic novel "Journey to the West." As the "Destined One," players encounter various monsters along their path to find the legendary Sun Wukong. But one character has particularly captured players' hearts in the early stages: Guangzhi, a wolf monster. 

Guangzhi has become a fan-favorite for saving players in tough boss battles with his powerful transformation spell and strong attacks. The phrase "Guangzhi, save me!" has even become a popular gaming meme.

But there's a twist: In the original "Journey to the West" novel, Guangzhi is a villain who tried to kill both Sun Wukong and his master Tang Sanzang.

Want to learn more about this fascinating contrast? Join Bilibili influencer Wang Hongzhi, a professor from Shanghai Normal University, in the latest episode of SPARK, where he compares the game character with the original story's Guangzhi.

SPARK is a groundbreaking educational series that weaves together Science, Philosophy, Art, Research and Knowledge into engaging digital content. By transforming complex academic insights into accessible learning experiences, SPARK creates an inclusive intellectual space where curious minds from all walks of life can explore, learn and grow together.

(Cover designed by Yu Peng)