China’s Next Soft Power Move: Video Games
China is making video games its next big tool for soft power.
The country is known for using movies, technology, and infrastructure projects to influence other nations. Now, it is turning to video games to reach a global audience.
What is Soft Power?
Soft power is the ability to influence others through culture, values, and policies. It is different from hard power, which involves military force or economic pressure. Countries use soft power to make themselves more attractive and to gain influence.
China’s Growing Video Game Industry
China has one of the biggest video game markets in the world. It is home to some of the largest gaming companies like Tencent and NetEase. These companies create popular games played by millions worldwide. Games like “Honor of Kings” and “PUBG Mobile” have a huge international following.
China’s government supports the growth of the video game industry. It sees the potential of video games to spread Chinese culture and values. By creating games that are popular worldwide, China can subtly influence players’ perceptions and opinions.
Why Video Games?
Video games are a powerful medium for storytelling. They can engage players in ways that movies and books cannot. Players spend hours immersed in game worlds, forming connections with characters and stories. This makes video games an effective tool for soft power.
Chinese games often include elements of Chinese culture, history, and mythology.
By playing these games, international players learn about China in an engaging way.
This can create a positive image of China and increase its cultural influence.
Global Reach of Chinese Games
Chinese gaming companies are expanding their reach globally.
They are acquiring foreign game studios and partnering with international companies.
Tencent, for example, owns stakes in several major Western game companies like Epic Games and Activision Blizzard.
This gives Chinese companies a foothold in the global market.
Chinese games are also gaining popularity in other countries. Games like “Genshin Impact” have become global hits.
These games are available in multiple languages and cater to international tastes. They attract players from all over the world, spreading Chinese influence far and wide.
Government Support
The Chinese government is actively involved in promoting the video game industry. It provides funding and support for game development.
It also encourages companies to create games that reflect Chinese culture and values. The government sees video games as a strategic tool for enhancing China’s soft power.
Challenges and Criticisms
China’s use of video games for soft power is not without challenges. There are concerns about censorship and control.
Chinese games must comply with strict government regulations. This can lead to censorship of content that does not align with government views.
There are also concerns about data privacy and security. Chinese gaming companies collect a lot of data from players. This raises questions about how this data is used and who has access to it.
