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The government claims that these measures are in the best interests of minors' physical and mental health, and part of a broader effort to foster "national rejuvenation." Officially, the narrative suggests that excessive gaming distracts young people from their education, responsibilities, and societal obligations. China has long blamed gaming for social ills, even describing online games as “opium for the mind,” echoing a harsh critique of their potential for harm.
This stance isn't new; China banned gaming consoles in 2000 and only lifted the ban in 2015, but restrictions on online gaming have persisted and intensified over the years. The latest crackdown appears to be an attempt to further control the influence of gaming culture among the youth and curb what authorities see as addiction.