China is allegedly intensifying its regulations concerning the streaming of “unauthorized” video games.
As reported by Reuters (thanks to PC Gamer), the Chinese government agency, The National Radio and Television Administration, has rationalized this move by emphasizing that “for a certain period, issues like the chaotic state of online live-streaming and teenagers’ addiction to games have aroused widespread societal concerns, and effective measures urgently need to be implemented.”
It seems that this statement comes in the wake of the situation where some fans were capable of viewing games that China considers “unauthorized” – such as Elden Ring – through Chinese streaming platforms, even though many of these games are not purchasable in the country.
“Earlier this year, Elden Ring became a sensation on Chinese game live-streaming platforms, attaining a cumulative daily average of 17.1 million viewers. Despite lacking a license,” explained industry analyst, Daniel Ahmad.
Elden Ring was a hit on Chinese game live-streaming platforms, reaching 17.1 million cumulative daily average viewers in its first week.
However, it is not approved for sale there (Of course, people still find ways to acquire it).
If the following is fully implemented, Elden Ring could not be streamed at all. https://t.co/roKxkQwatI
— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) April 15, 2022
To view this content, please enable targeting cookies. Manage cookie settings
“China’s regulation regarding video games continues to focus on compliance and enforcement. Games have always required a license before they can be distributed or streamed in China. Previously, the enforcement of this requirement was seldom carried out. Now, it will be,” Ahmad further stated on Twitter.
“In practical terms, this implies that unless a game is approved by the regulator, it will be extremely challenging for it to gain visibility through live-streaming, short videos, advertisements, or other platforms/channels.
“It remains to be seen whether this will be fully enforced for all games,” Ahmad said. “In the past, this was restricted to games that were specifically named and banned by regulators, such as GTAV being prohibited.”
This is the latest skirmish in China’s ongoing struggle against video games. Even seemingly innocent titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons have come under fire after it was utilized by Hong Kong protesters and others to create politically sensitive user-generated content.
