China Will Ban “Addictive” Games in 2021

China changed its laws on digital media consumption in the country. Reportedly, “addictive” online games will face a ban in China if they do not take steps to tackle overuse in June 2021.

It’s not just a game, but social networking platforms and live streaming websites also face a potential ban in China. As per Engadget, the developers must incorporate measures in their applications to monitor consumption and prevent addictive usage.

In the past, games such as Tencent’s Honor of Kings have implemented a feature to restrict users from playing for long. Such actions came in response to mounting pressure on game developers from the government.

Tencent has even announced plans to introduce game-time contracts for its games. Within the framework of this contract, young players will sign a digital contract where they are required to get good marks or complete homework before they can play more.

China’s Involvement in the Country Game Landscape

Back in 2018, China formalized its work towards moderating game content through an Online Games Ethics Committee. The governing body has since banned games right away or sent them back for changes.

In 2019, gaming industry leaders in China and People’s Daily (a state-owned newspaper) joined forces to work on a game rating system. The rating system included four age ratings: 6+, 12+, 16+, 18+. This system plays the same role as PEGI in Europe and ESRB in the US.

Also Read:

• Sony explains when and how to listen to PS5 voice chat recordings.
• The official Biden HQ at Animal Crossing has polling stations, ice cream, and no bullshit.
• Among Us hasn’t just exploded on Twitch — it dominates mobile gaming too.

Besides games, social networks and streaming services will also have to put measures to curb prolonged usage. In addition to that, users will be able to ask internet providers to respond to cyberbullying cases on such websites. Internet providers will even have the authority to take down online content.

Since China is one of the world’s biggest consumers of video games, it makes sense that the government wants to fight the addictive nature of games and social media. However, it should also make sure that regulation does not turn into censorship or knee-jerk bans.

Keywords: china game ban, gaming addiction in china, china video game restrictions