Black Myth: Wukong is an incredible Soulslike game that offers a fresh take on the genre. It changes up the familiar Soulsborne formula with unique mechanics and features that might surprise those more familiar with the traditional games. These changes are largely for the better. Although some elements may feel alien at first, mastering them will enhance your gameplay experience. Here’s a rundown of the top 14 Wukong tips to help you start strong on your journey through Black Myth: Wukong.

Understanding Sparks and Leveling Up

One of the key mechanics in Black Myth: Wukong revolves around Sparks. As you defeat enemies and bosses, you’ll earn Sparks, which are used to level up your talent tree, featuring over 250 talents. Unlike most Soulslike games, you won’t lose unspent Sparks or experience points when you die. This makes the game more forgiving and accessible to a wider audience. You won’t have to retrieve your body to regain lost experience or Sparks. The game’s forgiving nature allows players to take risks without fearing major setbacks. But make no mistake—the game still presents a significant challenge, requiring you to master your skills to progress.

When you gain Sparks, level up immediately. You can upgrade your abilities anytime without needing to rest at a Keeper’s Shrine (this game’s version of a bonfire). Most abilities cost just one Spark early on, so don’t hold back on spending them. Wukong encourages experimentation with different builds and playstyles. You can easily respec at a Shrine, allowing you to adjust your character for different boss encounters or specific gameplay situations.

Managing Combat and Stamina

Locking on to enemies is crucial in Black Myth: Wukong. Using the R3 button helps you spot enemies that are well-camouflaged in their environment. This function ensures you’re not caught off guard by ambushes, as it instantly reveals hidden foes. The lock-on feature also improves camera management, making it smoother and more intuitive. Unlike other RPGs, the camera doesn’t snap back abruptly, creating a seamless combat experience.

Stamina management is key to survival in this game. Everything—from attacking to sprinting—uses stamina. Holding a charged attack while sprinting toward an enemy drains stamina, so running out at the wrong moment can leave you vulnerable. Make sure to manage your stamina carefully, especially in boss fights. As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock talents that improve stamina management, but in the early stages, it’s vital to keep an eye on it.

Utilizing Spells and Shrines

Spells play a huge role in Black Myth: Wukong, offering players incredible abilities like immobilizing enemies, turning into a fire demon, or summoning clones. These powerful spells can quickly turn the tide of battle, making boss fights significantly easier. Early in the game, however, Mana is a scarce resource. Use your spells wisely, saving them for bosses or tricky situations, as regular enemies usually won’t pose much of a threat.

Keeper Shrines function similarly to bonfires in other Soulslike games, but with a twist. You can interact with them to respec, level up, and sell items without respawning enemies unless you choose to rest. This feature allows you to maintain progress without resetting the game world, making it easier to prepare for upcoming challenges.