THE INFLUENCE OF CHINESE MYTHICAL CREATURES ON CONTEMPORARY POP CULTURE: A STUDY OF DRAGON IMAGERY IN VIDEO GAMES

The article deals with the influence of Chinese mythical dragons on modern pop culture on the example of video games, and analyses the transformation of the Chinese dragon image in the cultural context. Special attention is paid to the adaptation of this symbol, including possible changes in its symbolism and meaning under the influence of mass culture. The author explores the historical and cultural significance of the dragon image in Chinese mythology, its symbolism and evolution in the Chinese cultural context, and analyses how Chinese mythical dragons are represented in modern video games created in China and identifies key features of their image. The study covers the visual and semantic perception of the dragon and its role in the plots and mechanics of the popular video game Black Myth: Wukong. The analysis of the representation of Chinese mythical dragons in modern video games created in China allowed us to identify the cultural transformations that this ancient symbol undergoes in the context of modern pop culture. In video games, the dragon not only retains its traditional features, but also receives new interpretations that reflect contemporary trends and cultural characteristics. The article highlights the ways in which the Chinese mythological dragon has become a significant cultural element that promotes intercultural exchange and dialogue between East and West.