Nintendo makes history in China with the debut of New Pokémon Snap. This article explores the significance of this launch and why it's the first official Pokémon game in China.
On July 16th, New Pokémon Snap, initially released globally on April 30th, 2021, became the first officially released Pokémon game in China. This marks a significant event, overcoming the country's video game console ban (imposed in 2000 and lifted in 2015 due to concerns about children's development). This signifies a new chapter for Nintendo and Pokémon fans in China, finally bringing the franchise to the market after years of restrictions.
Nintendo's ambition to expand into China's lucrative gaming market is well-documented. Their 2019 partnership with Tencent to bring the Nintendo Switch to China laid the groundwork for this launch. New Pokémon Snap's release represents a major step in their strategy to penetrate this massive market. This strategic move coincides with Nintendo's growing presence in China, with more high-profile game releases planned.
Following New Pokémon Snap, Nintendo announced several additional titles for the Chinese market:
⚫︎ Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury ⚫︎ Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Eevee! ⚫︎ The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild ⚫︎ Immortals Fenyx Rising ⚫︎ Above Qimen ⚫︎ Samurai Shodown
These releases demonstrate Nintendo's commitment to building a comprehensive gaming portfolio in China, aiming for a substantial market share with both established and new titles.
The surprise among international Pokémon fans regarding China's long-standing console ban highlights the franchise's unique history in the region. Despite the ban, Pokémon cultivated a large fanbase in China. Many players accessed games through unofficial channels, including overseas purchases and counterfeit versions. Smuggling was also prevalent; a recent incident involved a woman smuggling 350 Nintendo Switch games.
One notable attempt to circumvent the ban was the iQue Player, a collaboration between Nintendo and iQue in the early 2000s. This compact Nintendo 64 variant aimed to combat rampant piracy.
A Reddit user highlighted the impressive global success of Pokémon despite its absence from the Chinese market. Nintendo's recent actions signal a strategic shift, aiming to tap into this previously unavailable market.
The gradual introduction of Pokémon and other Nintendo titles into China represents a pivotal moment. Nintendo's continued navigation of this complex market, coupled with the enthusiastic response, suggests a promising future for gaming in China and beyond.
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