The backup ways to enjoy unapproved games — An investigation into the methods that allow Chinese gamers to evade governance and purchase unlicensed games in China

Abstract

This research focuses on revealing how Chinese gamers evade the governance of local authorities by elaborating on two different methods to introduce unapproved foreign-made video games into the Chinese market without the express permission of local authorities. These methods can be differentiated based on video game media. For the physical media, smuggling foreign-made video games from other markets to the Chinese market is an established way to bring games into the mainland. It relies on specific methods to deliver these products into China, which are illegal to the Chinese authorities. For the digital medium, digital distribution platforms offer a modern and more recently popularized conduit through which local gamers can obtain unapproved games. Yet, when these platforms operate in a grey area, unregulated by Chinese authorities, their status leaves them vulnerable, as these platforms could disappear when new regulations targeting them are suddenly announced. By investigating the methods that enable Chinese gamers to enjoy unapproved foreign-made games from overseas markets, this research aims to enhance understanding of the Chinese gaming industry's ecosystem, market, and community.

Keywords:gaming culturegame policiesgame regulationsconsole gamesforeign games