Nikita Hariname
Black Myth: Wukong draws inspiration from the classic Journey to the West novel and among the many intriguing mechanics in the game is the ability to absorb spirits. However, players may occasionally encounter a message, especially after defeating Wandering Wight: “Cannot Absorb Spirits Without Guidance.”
If you’ve stumbled upon this in your playthrough, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll break down what this message means, why it appears, and how you can fix this to progress in your journey as the legendary Monkey King.
Meaning of Cannot Absorb Spirits Without Guidance in Black Myth: Wukong?
Absorbing spirits allows Wukong to enhance his abilities, unlock new skills, and fuel his transformations. However, there is a key condition: absorbing spirits requires guidance and this ties deeply into the game’s narrative and spiritual themes. Basically, the reason why you’re seeing this message is that you have to meet an old master before you get the ability to absorb Spirits.
This old master can be found in Chapter 1. Head to Bamboo Grove and interact with the Snake Trail Keeper’s Shrine. After you defeat the Yaoguai King: Lingxuzi, climb the rocky steps next to this location and turn right.
You should be able to see an old man standing near a table. Talk to him to start a cutscene and you’ll receive a Blessed Gourd from him.
After this, you’re free to find and defeat enemies that you can collect and absorb Spirits from.
How to Retrieve Previous Spirits?
In case you’ve missed out on some Spirits before this, don’t worry! You can still collect their Spirits! Visit any Shrine and click on the option to Retrieve Spirits to have a chance to equip and use them.
Speaking of Spirits, you might want to know how to recover Qi—here’s our guide that will help you out. If you haven’t unlocked the Rock Solid spell yet which lets you parry bosses effectively, here’s our guide that will show you exactly how to get it. And to ensure better survival during battles, be sure to upgrade your Gourds, and armor with the help of Will, Silk, and Cold Iron Leaves.