China bans online game Football Manager 2005

(Xinhua)

Updated: 2004-12-08 15:51

China has banned the on-line game "Football Manager 2005," which the Ministry of Culture has resolved to "pose harm to the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity."



Interface of the online game "Football Manager 2005," which was banned by Chinese government since it "poses harm to the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity." In the game, which was developed by game producer Sports Interactive, Ltd., Taipei of Taiwan, Hong Kong-Macao region and China's Tibet are represented as independent countries. [Xinhua/file]

Although the game has not been publicly released in China, it has been disseminated on the Internet and downloaded pirated software CDs.



Logo of the on-line game "Football Manager 2005," which was banned by Chinese government since it "poses harm to the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity." [Xinhua]

According to the circular, places that provide this game will be penalized with a fine up to 30,000 yuan (US$3,600) or cancellation of business license. Internet service providers that do not prevent their users from downloading and installing the game after detection, will receive warning, a fine less than 15,000 yuan (US$1,800) or suspension of their business and cancellation of their license.

The ministry has "received strong protests from Chinese game players" about the game, the circular says.