BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles (NEVs), and Game Science, the developer behind China’s first AAA game Black Myth: Wukong, have announced a strategic partnership focused on the “Protection of Chinese Relics and National Treasures.” This collaboration aims to digitize and preserve historical landmarks, beginning in Shanxi, where many of the game’s scenes are set, with plans to expand across other provinces.
The announcement comes on the heels of Black Myth: Wukong‘s record-breaking success, which saw over one million sales within its first hour of release and over 10 million global sales within three days. The game achieved over 3 million concurrent players across all platforms, propelling it to the top tier of single-player games worldwide. Utilizing the advanced Unreal Engine 5, the game offers stunning visuals and immersive gameplay, representing a major milestone for China’s gaming industry.
In addition to the gaming success, Black Myth: Wukong has sparked a surge in cultural tourism, with players from around the world drawn to explore the real-life locations that inspired the game. To enhance the game’s authenticity, Game Science spent four years scanning over 100 famous Chinese landmarks, allowing players to appreciate these sites virtually while igniting global interest in the classic “Journey to the West” story and Chinese mythology.
BYD’s commitment to technological innovation has played a crucial role in its rise to the top of the NEV industry. As the world’s leading NEV manufacturer, BYD has a presence in over 95 countries and more than 400 cities. According to its 2024 half-year financial report, BYD invested RMB 20.2 billion in research and development, a 42% year-on-year increase, marking the highest R&D expenditure among over 5,300 A-share listed companies. This investment supports BYD’s advanced technologies such as the DM technology, Blade Battery, and the e4 (Yisifang) platform, helping to set new benchmarks in the market.
Beyond technology, BYD is also known for promoting Chinese culture. The automaker is the only one in the industry to name its products after Chinese dynasties, including models like Xia, Qin, Han, Tang, and Song. Its premium brand YANGWANG draws inspiration from ancient Oracle Bone Script. Additionally, BYD has launched initiatives like the “Dragon Boat to the Olympics” and the BYD National Treasure Protection Program, reflecting its commitment to cultural preservation.
The new collaboration between BYD and Game Science to digitize and preserve historical assets begins in 2024 with digital scans of national treasures in Shanxi. This initiative aims to ensure that future generations can appreciate China’s rich cultural heritage. The partnership not only highlights a shared dedication to technological innovation but also showcases the companies’ efforts to blend modern advancements with cultural preservation. Future plans for expanding the program to other provinces are expected to be announced soon.
