An Imagological Analysis of the Video Game Black Myth: WuKong

Abstract In this paper, an analytical approach is applied to the globally acclaimed game, Black Myth: Wukong , inspired by the classic novel Journey to the West , which stands out in the transmission of Chinese culture. A model is proposed, taking into account four basic concepts: proto-image, image ontology, image realization, and image reception, tracing the literary sources manifested in the game. The exploration covers how narrative structures, multimodal systems, and gameplay change during the transition from text to game. Finally, the reception and evaluation of these changes are examined, illustrating the interactive process between game developers as image creators and players as image receivers. The formation of images in the digital era is viewed as distinct from traditional media and urgently needs attention.