China slows game approvals to enforce strict new rules

A protracted delay in game approval is likely to weigh on gaming business growth at Tencent and NetEase, which depend on the launch of new titles to sustain growth and draw in new users. — Reuters

Chinese regulators are reviewing new games to determine whether they meet stricter criteria around content and protections for kids, people familiar with the matter said, an effort that’s likely to slow rollouts in the world’s largest mobile arena.

The National Press and Publication Administration is re-assessing titles submitted for approval by developers from Tencent Holdings Ltd to Netease Inc to ensure they comply with fresh curbs on playing time and other anti-addiction safeguards unveiled in August, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing confidential matters. The watchdog turned back applications around late August and asked developers to re-submit titles with the new mandatory measures built in, they said.