'Black Myth: Wukong' sparks merch sales surge and fervor for historical attractions

(ECNS) -- Sony Play-Station 5 consoles, personal computers, video cards and other derivative products are in high demand, fueled by the global hit video game "Black Myth: Wukong." 

Developed by Shenzhen-based startup Game Science, the game has sold more than 10 million copies across all platforms in just three days after its release on Aug. 20.

E-commerce data from short video platform Kuaishou showed that on the day of the game’s launch, the gross merchandise volume (GMV) of all-in-one and desktop computers surged 122 percent month-on-month and that of other computer-related products such as screen displays increased 74 percent daily.

Cost-effective second-hand equipment is also highly sought after. Sales and search for PS5s soared 128 percent and 237 percent respectively daily after the game was released, according to Zhuanzhuan, an online trading platform for second-hand goods in China.

Besides, the sales of other electronic products such as gamepads, keyboards, mouses and headphones for e-sports also embraced robust sales growth.

With undoubted domestic success, the video game has also ignited a buying frenzy of side-line products, including action figures and co-branded coffee as well as a travel rush of its real-world locations, especially the 27 in north China's Shanxi Province.

Among them, the most popular is the 40-cetimeter-high “Destined one” model, prototype of Wukong in the game. Priced at 1,998 yuan, the limited-edition 10,000 set of gift boxes were sold out in one minute after being launched online.

Before Black Myth: Wukong hit the market, domestic coffee chain Luckin Coffee introduced an Americano variant inspired by the game, as well as free limited-edition cup holders, tote bags and 3D posters upon purchase of coffee combos. These were also sold out instantly upon release. 

The “Black Myth Effect” is way more than that. Tourism data shows that the game has sparked a tourism boom in Shanxi Province, which in turn also seized the opportunity to launch a series of thematic routes titled “Tour Shanxi with Wukong.” 

According to some experts, like TV dramas, video games can also drive the development of many other industries because it has a spillover and dissemination effect in itself. With a total of 668 million gamers, China boasts the world's most lucrative gaming market.