Nintendo makes history in China with the debut of New Pokémon Snap, marking the franchise's official entry into the Chinese market. This article explores the significance of this launch and the future of Pokémon in China.

New Pokémon Snap's Chinese Launch: A Historic Moment

Pokémon's Official Arrival in China

The release of New Pokémon Snap on July 16th, 2024, marks a pivotal moment. This first-person photography game, initially released globally on April 30th, 2021, becomes the first officially released Pokémon game in China since the country's console ban was lifted in 2015 (following its initial implementation in 2000). This ban, stemming from concerns about the impact of video games on children's development, had previously prevented official Pokémon releases. This launch signifies a significant step 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 expansion. New Pokémon Snap's release represents a major milestone in Nintendo's strategy to tap into the vast Chinese gaming market. Further high-profile releases are planned in the coming months.

Future Nintendo Titles in China

Following New Pokémon Snap, Nintendo plans to release several additional 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 establishing a strong presence in the Chinese market.

Pokémon's Unexpected Chinese Following

The surprise among international fans regarding China's long-standing console ban highlights the unique history of Pokémon in the region. Despite the ban, a substantial fanbase emerged, with many accessing games through unofficial means, including overseas purchases and counterfeit versions. The recent arrest of a woman smuggling 350 Nintendo Switch games further illustrates this underground market.

The iQue Player, a collaboration between Nintendo and iQue released in the early 2000s, attempted to address rampant piracy by offering a modified Nintendo 64.

The fact that Pokémon achieved global success without official distribution in China is remarkable. Nintendo's current strategy aims to capitalize on this existing fanbase and further penetrate the market.

The gradual introduction of Pokémon and other Nintendo titles into China represents a significant turning point. The enthusiastic anticipation surrounding these releases suggests a bright future for gaming in China and beyond.