The 21st China International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) in Shenzhen has become a hotspot for China’s booming gaming industry, showcasing how gaming companies are stepping up their global game. With a focus on cultural integration and international strategies, the event highlighted the sector’s growing influence on the world stage.
One of the highlights was Tencent’s international games brand, Level Infinite, which featured its hit title Arena of Valor. Launched overseas in 2024, the game skyrocketed in popularity, racking up over 50 million downloads in its first month. Now available in more than 220 countries and regions, and in 14 languages, it’s a testament to China’s expanding footprint in global gaming.
Tencent’s financial success mirrors this growth. In 2024, their international gaming revenue reached 58 billion yuan (about $8 billion), marking a 9% increase from the previous year. The momentum continued into 2025, with first-quarter revenues surging 23% to 16.6 billion yuan. The company credits this success to localized operations, deep market insights, and cutting-edge technologies in global distribution.
Guangdong: The Gaming Powerhouse
Guangdong Province stands at the heart of this expansion. In 2024, China’s self-developed games generated $18.56 billion in overseas revenue, with Guangdong accounting for a whopping 80% of the industry’s output. The province is home to over 6,000 gaming companies, including 350 large-scale enterprises.
At the ICIF, which ran from May 22 to 26, Guangdong unveiled a comprehensive policy package aimed at boosting high-quality cultural industry development. The 13 gaming-specific policies focus on fostering original content, promoting technological innovation, nurturing talent, and creating an optimized business environment. Industry leaders see these measures as a catalyst for expanding digital content exports.
Last year, nine Guangzhou-based gaming firms were listed among China’s key cultural export enterprises, collectively generating over 19 billion yuan in overseas sales.
Blending Tradition with Innovation
Many games showcased at the fair beautifully integrated traditional Chinese cultural elements, resonating with global audiences. From mythological stories to unique artistic styles, these games demonstrate how cultural depth can enhance gameplay experiences and bridge global audiences.
This blend of tradition and innovation not only enriches the gaming experience but also promotes cultural exchange, showcasing China’s rich heritage to the world.
