China Rumored To End Their 13 Year Long Ban On Video Game Consoles

Did you know that game consoles were outlawed in China, back in 2000? The reason: concerns that they would corrupt the minds of children. But there are reports floating around that the government may lift the 13 yearlong ban.

According to an unnamed source from Ministry of Culture that China Daily spoke with:

"We are reviewing the policy and have conducted some surveys and held discussions with other ministries on the possibility of opening up the game console market… However, since the ban was issued by seven ministries more than a decade ago, we will need approval from all parties to lift it."

Ever since the ban was established, both Sony and Nintendo have attempted to change the government's mind on the matter, but with little effect. Most recently, Microsoft introduced the Kinect to Mainland China. Though not as a video game accessory (since the Xbox 360 cannot be sold there), but as a tool for education and medical treatment.

It should perhaps be no surprise to hear that the ban also resulted in a very prosperous black market for consoles.

Why the change of heart? One possibility is how pervasive gaming has become these days, mostly due to the rise in popularity of smart phones and similar mobile devices.

Time will tell if the Chinese government ends up repealing the ban, but just the rumors alone helped to raise both Nintendo and Sony shares in the stock market.