Game Science Eschews AI for Black Myth: Zhong Kui, Citing Traditional Design Values
August 10, 2026
Game Science’s co-founder and art director Yang Qi says the studio will avoid using generative AI for design and asset production on Black Myth: Zhong Kui for now, choosing to rely on traditional methods while not ruling AI out entirely.
Qi promotes old-school techniques, citing Christopher Nolan’s practical, traditional filmmaking as a contrast to heavy digital post-production and suggesting AI adoption can come later.
Yang likens modern AI progress to Nolan’s use of older technologies, arguing there is no urgency to accelerate AI-driven workflows.
The game centers on Zhong Kui, a demon-hunter from Chinese mythology, exploring themes of life and death as he traverses the mortal realm and the underworld.
The discussion includes examples like Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and Kingdom Hearts, which have prompted AI-related debates.
Reactions across social platforms (ResetEra, Weibo) are part of the coverage, highlighting questions about AI’s potential to speed development and how the stance aligns with past success.
The report originates from GamerSky, with a link provided for readers seeking more details.
KitGuru invites reader opinions on AI in game development and the studio’s stance, reflecting ongoing public engagement.
Black Myth: Wukong’s prior success and strong sales set high expectations for the new Zhong Kui entry.
Black Myth: Zhong Kui is in early production, announced as the second entry in the series and built from scratch for PC and major consoles.
Game Science typically makes major announcements on August 20 each year, aligning with its traditional showcase schedule.
There is no official release date yet; industry chatter places a potential arrival around 2028, with development early and a long timeline ahead.
Summary based on 19 sources
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Sources

GameRant • Aug 10, 2026
Black Myth: Zhong Kui Rejects AI Due to Inspiration From Christopher Nolan
Beebom • Aug 10, 2026
Black Myth Wukong Sequel Dev Says No to AI, Refusing to Rush Game Development
Khel Now • Aug 10, 2026
Black Myth Zhong Kui will prioritize traditional development instead of AI - Report