Nintendo makes history in China with the debut of New Pokémon Snap. This article explores the significance of this landmark release and its implications for the Pokémon franchise in the Chinese market.
Pokémon's Arrival in China
A Historic Launch
On July 16th, New Pokémon Snap, initially released globally on April 30th, 2021, became the first officially released Pokémon game in China. This event marks a significant turning point, considering China's past video game console ban (enacted in 2000 and lifted in 2015). The ban, stemming from concerns about the impact of video games on children's development, previously prevented official Pokémon releases. This launch signals a new era for Nintendo and Pokémon fans in China.
Nintendo's strategic partnership with Tencent in 2019, bringing the Nintendo Switch to China, paved the way for this momentous release. New Pokémon Snap's launch represents a crucial step in Nintendo's expansion into one of the world's largest and most profitable gaming markets. This strategic move is part of a broader plan to increase Nintendo's presence in China with more high-profile game releases in the near future.
Future Nintendo Titles in China
Following the success of New Pokémon Snap, Nintendo has announced several additional titles for the Chinese market, including:
⚫︎ Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury ⚫︎ Pokémon Let’s Go, Eevee and Pikachu ⚫︎ The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild ⚫︎ Immortals Fenyx Rising ⚫︎ Above Qimen ⚫︎ Samurai Shodown
These releases demonstrate Nintendo's commitment to establishing a strong gaming presence in China, leveraging its popular franchises and new releases to capture a greater market share.
Pokémon's Unofficial Chinese Legacy
The surprise among international fans about the long-standing console ban highlights the complex history of Pokémon in China. Despite the ban, a substantial fanbase emerged, with players accessing games through unofficial channels like overseas purchases. Counterfeit games and smuggling were also prevalent. A recent example includes a woman apprehended for smuggling 350 Nintendo Switch games.
The iQue Player, a unique console released in the early 2000s, represents a notable attempt to circumvent the ban. A collaboration between Nintendo and iQue, it was a compact Nintendo 64 variant designed to combat rampant piracy.
The impressive global success of Pokémon, even without official access to the Chinese market, is remarkable. Nintendo's recent actions signify a strategic shift, aiming to capitalize on the previously untapped potential of the Chinese market.
The gradual introduction of Pokémon and other Nintendo titles to China marks a pivotal moment. Nintendo's continued navigation of this complex market, coupled with the enthusiastic response to these releases, suggests a bright future for gaming in China and beyond.
