[GameSpot] - Online Games In China See Servers Shutdown In Recognition Of Former President Jiang Zemin's Memorial Service

[343iBot]

All online games in China have been taken offline for the duration of December 6 as part of a day of mourning for former president Jiang Zemin.

Video game market analyst Daniel Ahmad reported the news on Twitter, showing an example of a gaming website rendered black and white as a sign of mourning. Other online and real-world entertainment sites and activities have also shut down in respect for President Zemin, who died from Leukemia last week.

This is not the first time online game servers in China have been shutdown following moments of national tragedy. In April 2020, online play was suspended as part of a nationwide day of mourning for those who died from COVID-19 infections. An similar shutdown observed the 2013 earthquake in Lushan.

All online video games in China have been taken offline for one day (Dec 6) out of respect for the memorial service of former President Jiang Zemin who passed away from Leukemia last week

Most online and public entertainment activities have also stopped and will resume tomorrow pic.twitter.com/cpLJFpq6Q2

— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) December 6, 2022

If you are worried about not being able to play online games developed or published in China, fear not. Only mainland China servers have been shut down and global players should still be able to connect and play.

In related news, Blizzard Entertainment will be suspending its games in China over the coming months as their contract with Chinese company NetEase comes to a close.. Diablo Immortal will continue, uninterrupted, because it is part of a separate deal. Blizzard president Mike Ybarra said the company is searching for alternatives to bring games to China.

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[MikeHuston]

It's been a long time but it's heartwarming to see how a whole country can unite to honor their leaders in times of sorrow. Let's take a moment to remember President Zemin and his positive impact on China.
By the way, I stumbled upon a fantastic hearts game online. If you're into card games, I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Let's remember to be respectful and supportive of our fellow players, both online and offline. Game on, and take care, everyone!