China has one of the biggest and fastest-growing proportions of gamers worldwide. The industry is huge in the country and the continual rise and progress made by Chinese game developers and gaming technology keeps expanding the market and appeal for consumers.
From console games to mobile gaming apps and online igaming sites, Chinese gamers have some of the best possible online gaming options available today.
Huge Proportion of Gamers in China
In 2022, around 701.8 million Chinese citizens participated in some form of gaming activity. Also, the most popular medium was video games, such as those played on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. Overall, it is estimated that Chinese gamers contribute to a quarter of worldwide video game players.
However, the rise of mobile phone usage has also contributed to an increase in Chinese mobile gamers. Young people make up much of the mobile phone gaming market currently due to improved internet connections and accessibility to the latest phone technology.
Digital Boom Has Increased Customer Base
China has embraced modern technology and utilised the internet to maximise its gaming consumer base. However, video gaming has always been a popular pastime in the nation. In the 1990s, video games were extremely popular among young audiences and consumers. The appeal for game consoles was so strong that the government became concerned with the addition of these games to the nation’s young citizens. As a result, the console ban between 2000 and 2014 slowed the activity in China.
While Chinese citizens could not participate in console gaming, new and exciting gaming technologies rose and gave players new platforms to play. Mobile and social gaming grew in popularity. Also, many games continued to be produced in China due to the country’s investment in modern technology and the development of students with a tech backgrounds.
In the 2010s and 2020s, Chinese players have also benefited from improved internet quality. In particular, the introduction of 4G and 5G to major cities has led to another boom in online gaming, particularly for igaming sites, like Casumo, and via mobile apps.
When the console ban was lifted in 2014, new technologies, such as cooperative and interactive gaming had risen. Yet, uptake of online video gaming has been slow, but it is one area of the market that has seen massive growth in the last few years, especially due to advancements in live streaming and more realistic gaming experiences.
Future of Gaming in China
As China continues to embrace and shape the modern gaming space, it is unlikely that participation will slow anytime soon.
The nation’s interest and investment in modern technology means many consumers, particularly young males who have access to higher-education opportunities in tech, will continue to game and look towards the new releases and expansion points in the online gaming industry. Also, the country’s huge population, especially those located in big cities, will maintain an enthusiasm for gaming.
It is expected that the China online gaming industry will grow by roughly 8.45% between 2022 to 2027.
