Black Myth: Wukong, a game developed by Hangzhou-based Game Science. [Photo/IC]

Black Myth: Wukong, China's first Triple-A video game, made its highly-anticipated debut on Aug 20.

Created by Hangzhou-based Game Science Interactive Technology Co, the action role-playing game drew 1.6 million global players on Steam on its release day — outpacing heavyweights like Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, and Elden Ring.

Players set out as the Destined One to uncover the truth beneath the veil of a glorious legend from the past, overcoming challenges and experiencing many marvels along the way, says the game's introduction on Steam.

The game's sensational popularity can be attributed to its hero, Wukong — the Monkey King from the classic Chinese epic Journey to the West.

In the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Wu Cheng'en, author of Journey to the West, is believed to have penned parts of his legendary tale in Hangzhou. In 2018, the Game Science development team relocated from Shenzhen to Hangzhou, drawn by the city's relaxed pace and relatively lower costs.

Shiwukui Alley in Hangzhou is where Wu Cheng'en used to live. [Photo/Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism]

The development team also traveled across China to recreate historical temples, artifacts, and ancient texts within the game, including Zhejiang's Shisi Temple.

Constructed in 1140, Shisi Temple stands as a historical relic, untouched by the typical trappings of tourism. Its solemn atmosphere is captured brilliantly in the game, lending an authentic, mystical quality that has struck a chord with players.

Shisi Temple in Lishui, Zhejiang province, is recreated in Black Myth: Wukong. [Photo/Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism]