In a move that signals a potential thaw in China’s strict video game regulations, 15 foreign titles have been approved for sale, including entries from gaming giants Nintendo and Riot Games. This brings the total number of approved foreign games for 2024 to 61. The approved list includes well-known franchises such as Pokémon and League of Legends, both of which could see significant growth in the huge Chinese market. A mobile version of Riot’s popular shooter Valorant is also included, potentially bringing the game to a wider Chinese audience.
The National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) is responsible for overseeing the licensing of video games in China. The approvals point to a potentially more lenient stance by the NPPA, which has introduced restrictions on content and playing time in recent years. This news could be a positive sign for the video game industry, especially for companies like Nintendo and Riot Games. The huge Chinese market represents a significant opportunity for growth, and these approvals could lead to increased sales and engagement for both companies.
