China Sees Surge in Game Approvals for 2023

In 2023, China witnessed a significant increase in game approvals, with over 1,000 titles receiving publishing licenses. This surge is a notable improvement from the previous two years. December alone saw 105 games approved, marking the highest monthly total since July 2022. Notable approvals include titles from major local publishers such as Tencent and NetEase. The total annual approvals have reached 1,076, exceeding the 512 approved in 2022 and the 748 cleared in 2021. According to a report by Niko Partners, 2020 was the last year to see over 1,000 game approvals, with 1,411 licenses granted. The slowdown in approvals in previous years was partly due to a nine-month freeze on the process, which ended in April 2022. The lack of new releases contributed to a decline in the Chinese gaming market's value in 2022, the first drop in 20 years. However, the recent removal of the head of the publishing unit at the Communist Party's Publicity Department may impact the rate of approvals. This comes after new government proposals aimed at regulating video game monetization tactics, including spending limits and bans on certain mechanics, led to a decline in gaming stocks. The proposed restrictions are open for public comment until January 22, and the NPPA has announced plans to revise and improve the regulations based on feedback from relevant parties.