New Pokémon Snap Launches in China

Nintendo makes history in China with the debut of New Pokémon Snap, marking the first official Pokémon game release in the country. This article explores the significance of this launch and the path leading to it.

New Pokémon Snap's Chinese Launch: A Historic Moment

Pokémon's Official Return to China

On July 16th, New Pokémon Snap, initially released globally on April 30th, 2021, became the first officially released Pokémon game in China. This follows the country's video game console ban, enacted in 2000 and lifted in 2015. The ban, stemming from concerns about negative impacts on children's development, highlights the significance of this breakthrough. This launch signals a new era for Nintendo and Pokémon fans in China after years of market restrictions.

Nintendo's strategic partnership with Tencent in 2019, bringing the Nintendo Switch to China, paved the way for this release. New Pokémon Snap's arrival represents a key milestone in Nintendo's expansion into one of the world's largest and most lucrative gaming markets. This is part of a broader strategy, with more major titles planned for release in China.

Upcoming Nintendo Games in China

Following New Pokémon Snap, Nintendo plans to release several other titles in China, 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 building a substantial gaming presence in China, leveraging popular franchises and new offerings to capture a larger market share.

Pokémon's Unexpected Chinese Legacy

The surprise surrounding the long-standing console ban underscores the complex history of Pokémon in China. Despite the ban, a dedicated fanbase emerged, accessing games through unofficial channels, including overseas purchases and counterfeit copies. The prevalence of smuggling is also noteworthy; a recent example involved a woman smuggling 350 Nintendo Switch games.

The iQue Player, a unique console from the early 2000s, represents a notable attempt to circumvent piracy. A collaboration between Nintendo and iQue, it was a compact Nintendo 64 variant integrated into the controller.

The significant global success of Pokémon without official access to the Chinese market is remarkable. Nintendo's recent moves signify a strategic shift, aiming to capitalize on this previously untapped market.

The gradual introduction of Pokémon and other Nintendo titles marks a significant turning point. As Nintendo navigates the Chinese market, the anticipation surrounding these releases suggests a promising future for gamers in China and beyond.