Nintendo has achieved a historic milestone in China with the launch of New Pokemon Snap. This event marks the first official release of a Pokemon game in China, signaling a new era for Nintendo and Pokemon enthusiasts in the region. Let's delve into the significance of this release and what it means for the future of gaming in China.
Historic Release Marks Pokemon's Return to China
On July 16, New Pokemon Snap, a first-person photography game that debuted globally on April 30, 2021, became the first Pokemon game to be officially released in China since the country's video game console ban was enacted and lifted in 2000 and 2015, respectively. The initial ban was due to concerns about the impact of gaming consoles on children's mental and physical development. This landmark event not only signifies a new chapter for Nintendo but also excites Pokemon fans in China who have eagerly awaited the franchise's debut in their market.
Nintendo has been keen on expanding into the Chinese gaming market, partnering with Tencent in 2019 to introduce the Switch to the country. The release of New Pokemon Snap represents a significant step in Nintendo's strategy to capture one of the world's largest and most lucrative gaming markets. As Nintendo continues to increase its presence in China, the company has plans to release several more high-profile titles in the coming months.
Upcoming Nintendo Releases in China
Following the launch of New Pokemon Snap, Nintendo has announced a lineup of additional titles scheduled for release in China, including:
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Pokemon 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 building a diverse and robust gaming portfolio in China, aiming to attract a larger audience with both beloved franchises and new titles.
The Unexpected Legacy of Pokemon in China
The long-standing console ban in China has surprised many international Pokemon fans, highlighting the complex history of the franchise's relationship with the region. Despite never being officially sold in China, Pokemon has maintained a significant fanbase, with enthusiasts sourcing games through overseas purchases and even dealing with counterfeit versions and smuggling. In a recent incident in June, a woman was caught smuggling 350 Nintendo Switch games hidden in her undergarments.
An interesting attempt to bring Nintendo hardware into China was the iQue Player, a collaboration between Nintendo and iQue launched in the early 2000s. This device was a compact version of the Nintendo 64, designed to combat piracy by integrating all hardware into the controller.
As noted by a Reddit user, Pokemon's global success without officially tapping into the Chinese market is particularly remarkable. Nintendo's recent strategic shifts indicate a focused effort to bridge this gap, aiming to leverage its international success in the previously untapped Chinese market.
The gradual reintroduction of Pokemon and other Nintendo titles into China marks a pivotal moment for both the company and its fans. As Nintendo navigates this complex market, the enthusiasm surrounding these releases suggests a promising future for gaming enthusiasts in China and beyond.
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