Contrary to the United States’ freedom of choice, it seems that China has lifted a ban just to put another in place.
In January 2014, China lifted its rules against foreign video game consoles. However, it seems like this gaming freedom didn’t last very long now that the Chinese government is placing restrictions on the game themselves.
According to a translation by Games in Asia, any games that threaten “China’s national unity, sovereignty, or territorial integrity” or “instigates racial/ethnic hatred” will be banned from distribution.
“Games also may not promote “obscenity, drug use, violence or gambling,” as well as cults and superstitions. Approved games cannot violate China’s constitution, nor can they harm its culture, traditions and public ethics.” -Joystiq.com
Each game that has the potential to enter the country will have to go through an approval process by the Shanghai’s culture department lasting no longer than 20 days.
Consoles such as the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 must also be produced within the Shanghai Free Trade Zone, and a simplified Chinese version of each game will be vital. This way the publishers will be unable to re-sell “Hong Kong and Taiwan versions of their games.”
Do you think games are even worth playing if the best parts are being banned?
