Just as planned

Sony has finally gained approval to launch the PlayStation 3 in China, despite games consoles technically being illegal in the region. The platform was recently awarded a ‘China Compulsory Certificate’, although firm release plans have yet to formalise.

China implemented its console ban way back in 2000 in order to protect the nation’s youth from the various scientifically proven side-effects of video games. However, the move merely created a black market for imported and pirated products.

Consoles can technically be sold in the region if they are labelled as home entertainment devices – which many would argue the PS3 is anyway. Should the console release in China, it will arrive at least six years after its original debut in Japan. Local gamers are going to have some serious catching up to do.

[source techinasia.com, via eurogamer.net]