China is recognized as a key player in the global video game industry. In a dark underground hideout, dim light shines from a few oil lamps. A red flag with the hammer and sickle symbol is mounted on one of the stone walls, and weapons are scattered around. This scene could easily fit into one of the new episodes of "Call of Duty", the popular first-person shooter game. However, in reality, this image is related to the new game "The Defiant", which is being developed by the Chinese studio Hoothanes Technology in Hangzhou.
Unique Story and Weapons
The game "The Defiant" narrates the story of Chinese forces resisting the Japanese army in the 1930s and 1940s. Connor Zhou, the developer of this game, says that the weapons used in it are unique and were only used in Asia, making them unfamiliar to many Western players. Additionally, the story depicted in this game is portrayed for the first time in a video game.
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The Video Game Market in China
In recent years, China has become a major player in the global video game industry, despite severe restrictions and censorship. Over 700 million people in China regularly play video games, and many consider games a part of their lives. According to Zhou, "games make life more interesting" and allow users to experience different roles and stories.
Players in China primarily use computers and smartphones, while consoles are significantly less common. From 2000 to 2014, consoles were not officially sold in China, and these restrictions were imposed to protect youth from gaming addiction.
Currently, teenagers in China are only allowed to play online games for a maximum of three hours per week. Adults do not have such restrictions, but games are subject to strict controls, and individuals must register with their real names and identification numbers to play.
China is gradually adopting a more positive approach to video games and has recognized the economic potential of this industry. Chinese technology companies like Tencent and NetEase have invested in several Western game development companies. The Chinese market is unique due to its licensing system, and all games must obtain the necessary licenses from the relevant ministries.
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