China’s young video gamers deterred by Beijing’s harsh rules, but loopholes remain, report finds
- Gamers aged between six and 17 totalled 83 million in China this year, down from 122 million two years ago, according to Niko Partners
- However, analysts found that more than 80 per cent of parents in China have lent IDs to their children to circumvent game time restrictions
In 2020, six out of 10 Chinese children played video games, but by 2022, only four in 10 children are doing so, thanks to Beijing’s rigid online game time limit for minors, according to a new report published by market research firm Niko Partners.
Gamers aged between six and 17 totalled 83 million in China this year, down from 122 million two years ago, analysts found.
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China limits online gaming time for young people to 3 hours a week
The regulation, designed to root out gaming addiction among youngsters, was driven by Beijing’s belief that video games are harmful to the healthy development of the nation’s youth.
As a result of the regulation, 77 per cent of young Chinese gamers have been playing for fewer hours each week, according to analysts.
The government’s move could have a lasting impact on China’s video gaming industry. According to the report, the number of young gamers in the country is expected to recover to only 115 million by 2026 – several million fewer than in 2020.
Analysts also expect the regulation to hurt the supply of esports talent in China.
The findings of the report reflect the “strong impact” on the overall games and esports market in China, said Lisa Hanson, founder and president of Niko Partners.
