Tencent Limits Minors’ Online Gaming to 16 Hours During Holidays
Chinese online gaming giant Tencent announced on Tuesday that it would be imposing a limit on the amount of time minors can spend playing online games during the winter holidays and the Lunar New Year. From January 22 to February 24, minors will be restricted to a maximum of 16 hours of gameplay. The limited gaming hours will be between 8 pm and 9 pm local time on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and during the holiday period. This move comes as part of Tencent’s ongoing efforts to address concerns regarding excessive gaming among young people.
Measures Implemented to Prevent Video Game Addiction Among Minors
In addition to the time restrictions, Tencent is introducing a range of measures aimed at preventing video game addiction among minors. These measures include real-name authentication, time-limited payments, and facial recognition for account activation. With real-name authentication, the identity of the player is verified, making it difficult for minors to access games meant for adults. Time-limited payments ensure that minors cannot spend excessive amounts of money on in-game purchases. Facial recognition technology for account activation adds an extra layer of security and verification, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access the gaming platform.
China Introduces Regulations to Limit Spending and Rewards in Video Games
Last December, the National Press and Publications Administration in China published regulations aimed at limiting spending and rewards in video games. These regulations were introduced to combat the issue of gaming addiction and to protect the mental and physical health of young people. The new rules establish spending limits for online games, preventing players, especially minors, from overspending on virtual items and in-game rewards. By placing these restrictions, the Chinese government hopes to promote healthier gaming habits and reduce the negative impact of excessive gaming on young people.
Chinese Video Game Market Returns to Growth Despite Regulations
The implementation of gaming restrictions in China in 2021 led to a contraction in revenue for the video game industry. However, despite these challenges, the Chinese video game market experienced a positive turnaround in 2023. Revenue increased by 13 percent, indicating a renewed interest in gaming among Chinese consumers. While eSports user numbers saw only a marginal growth of 0.1 percent, profits experienced a slight decline of 1.31 percent year-on-year. This suggests that although there are regulatory obstacles, the Chinese video game market remains resilient and continues to attract a significant player base.
Number of eSports Players in China Reaches 488 Million
In a country with a population of over 1.4 billion people, China has seen a remarkable rise in the number of eSports players. In 2023, the number of eSports players reached a staggering 488 million, according to official figures from Beijing. This demonstrates the immense popularity and widespread adoption of eSports as a form of entertainment among Chinese gamers. Despite the challenges posed by regulations and restrictions, the eSports industry in China continues to thrive, with a significant number of individuals actively participating in competitive gaming. This trend highlights the growing significance of eSports as a major sector within the Chinese gaming market.
In conclusion, Tencent’s decision to limit minors’ online gaming during the holidays reflects a broader effort to address concerns around excessive gaming among young people. The introduction of measures such as real-name authentication and time-limited payments aims to prevent video game addiction and promote healthier gaming habits. Meanwhile, China’s recent regulations to limit spending and rewards in video games underline the government’s commitment to protecting the well-being of young gamers. Despite these challenges, the Chinese video game market has rebounded, showcasing resilience and growth. The significant number of eSports players in China demonstrates the popularity and importance of competitive gaming in the country.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Tencent Limits Minors’ Online Gaming to 16 Hours During Holidays
As an analyst, the market is likely to see a positive impact with Tencent’s restriction on minors’ online gaming during holidays. This move shows their commitment to addressing concerns around excessive gaming and promoting healthier gaming habits, which may lead to improved public sentiment and potentially increased user engagement.
Positive news: Measures Implemented to Prevent Video Game Addiction Among Minors
The introduction of measures by Tencent aimed at preventing video game addiction among minors, such as real-name authentication, time-limited payments, and facial recognition, is expected to have a positive impact on the market. These measures enhance security, protect the well-being of young gamers, and may contribute to increased trust and user engagement with Tencent’s gaming platform.
Neutral news: China Introduces Regulations to Limit Spending and Rewards in Video Games
The introduction of regulations in China to limit spending and rewards in video games may have mixed effects on the market. While it aims to combat gaming addiction and protect the mental and physical health of young people, it may also pose regulatory obstacles for the industry. The market’s response will depend on how gaming companies adapt to these regulations and whether they can effectively promote healthier gaming habits.
Positive news: Chinese Video Game Market Returns to Growth Despite Regulations
The Chinese video game market’s positive turnaround in 2023, despite the implementation of gaming restrictions and contraction in revenue, shows resilience and continued growth. This indicates a renewed interest in gaming among Chinese consumers and suggests that the market is able to overcome regulatory obstacles. The market is expected to attract a significant player base and potentially drive further growth.
Positive news: Number of eSports Players in China Reaches 488 Million
The remarkable rise in the number of eSports players in China demonstrates the immense popularity and widespread adoption of eSports as a form of entertainment. This highlights the growing significance of eSports as a major sector within the Chinese gaming market. The market may witness increased opportunities for eSports-related businesses and continued growth in the
