In the world of video game awards, losing out on a prestigious title can be a real blow, and Feng Ji, the CEO of Game Science and producer of the much-anticipated game Black Myth: Wukong, is no stranger to this reality. At The Game Awards held recently, his game, nominated for four categories including Game of the Year (GOTY), lost to Astro Bot – a surprising outcome that Feng openly discussed in a candid post on Weibo, where he is known as Yocar.

While Feng acknowledged the wins for Best Action Game and Players’ Voice, he couldn't hide his disappointment over the GOTY loss. “The four nominations were a first for a Chinese game,” he remarked with mixed feelings of pride and confusion. “Yet, there’s a sense of loss and regret. More than anything, though, I let go of illusions.” His reflections struck a chord with many, as they revealed his deep connection to the game's success and the expectations both from the developer side and the fan base.

Feng’s comments stirred mixed reactions online, with some perceiving them as humorous self-reflection, while others found them tinged with bitterness. It’s easy to see why he might feel this way: Black Myth: Wukong is groundbreaking as the first Western-style AAA console game developed in China, and the stakes were high. The achievement of being nominated is monumental, yet the longing for the ultimate accolade was palpable in his words.

Adding to the conversation, Feng highlighted that he had written an acceptance speech two years ago with dreams of delivering it at the awards. “I’ve seen a lot of strong dissatisfaction and frustration in players’ comments, often expressed humorously, which made me laugh. I understand these feelings because they stem from dignity and confidence. When the recognition you expected doesn’t come, feeling upset is natural,” he elaborated.

This is not the first time Feng’s outspokenness has caught attention—last year, reports surfaced regarding a toxic culture in the development community tied to the game, further complicating the public's perception of him. Nevertheless, his forthright nature has cultivated a dedicated fanbase eager to support Black Myth: Wukong.

The conversation surrounding Black Myth: Wukong is far from over. With the gaming community buzzing about its achievements, the game’s anticipated release, and Feng’s passionate response to the awards, one wonders whether this episode will only boost interest and discussions around the game. Feng’s audacious approach might break conventions in a way that resonates with a generation craving authenticity, and perhaps that’s the point. Will this setback drive Game Science to new innovative heights or foster a wave of creativity that reshapes the gaming landscape? Only time will tell!