March 2023 Chinese Game Licensing List: Massive Wave of ACG Titles, Including GFL2 and 1999

On March 22, 2023, the National Press and Publication Administration released a new batch of domestic game approvals, greenlighting 86 titles. This list is particularly notable for its high concentration of ACG (Anime, Comic, and Games) titles, with many long-awaited games finally receiving their publishing licenses.

Key titles on the list include 'Reverse: 1999' by Bluepoch and 'Girls' Frontline 2: Exilium' (often jokingly referred to as 'Shao Qian 2' or 'Money Burning 2' by players), which ignited a wave of excitement in the community. Other notable entries include Papergames' 'Love and Deepspace', DreamSky's 'Strinova', and NetEase's 'Mission Zero'.

Players reacted with enthusiasm. Some mocked previous rumors that female-oriented games (Otome games) were facing stricter scrutiny, noting that the approval of 'Love and Deepspace' and 'Welcome to Dream Land' proves the genre remains steady. Users also had a good laugh over quirky company names like 'Yu Ha You' (a pun-heavy name). Many reflected on the community sentiment that 'everything you've been waiting for will eventually come,' while noting that some predictions still remain unfulfilled.