Abstract
This study examines how digital games facilitate cross-cultural communication and national image construction through the case of Black Myth: Wukong, a AAA action-adventure game rooted in the Chinese classic Journey to the West. Combining netnography, interviews, and textual analysis, the research explores the formation of its global fan community and its dual role in cultural exchange and soft power projection. Findings reveal that the game’s integration of mechanics, narrative, aesthetics, and art fosters a cross-cultural fan identity. Players engage through fan fiction, cosplay, and shared events, transcending cultural boundaries and reinforcing collective belonging. This identity construction enhances global recognition of Chinese culture while reshaping national image by challenging stereotypes. This research bridges gaps between digital game studies and national image scholarship, offering insights for developers and policymakers. It underscores games as vehicles for cultural diversity and global integration, advancing theoretical frameworks in cross-cultural communication and identity studies.
Presenters
Zihe HaoStudent, International Communication, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shaanxi, China
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Keywords: Digital Games, Media Culture, National Image, Identity Construction, Fan Culture
