China’s National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) has announced the approval of five imported online games for January 2026, as the NPPA continues to control the influx of international video games into the Chinese market.

The approved games, which have passed the strict scrutiny process, will now be allowed for release and distribution within China. 

Over the past several years, the Chinese government has implemented stringent measures to ensure that all foreign content aligns with the country’s cultural and moral standards. These measures include content reviews, censorship of sensitive themes, and checks on gameplay mechanics.

This development follows a gradual relaxation of approval processes in recent years, suggesting a potential shift in the regulatory landscape that could benefit both domestic and international developers aiming for success in China’s competitive gaming market.