China bans on-line game 'Football Manager'
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-12-08 17:06

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."

"Football Manager 2005," which was banned by Chinese government since it "poses harm to the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity." [Xinhua/file]

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, according to a circular issued by the ministry. Such a distortion, even in acomputer game, violates the relevant Chinese laws and is anathema to the Chinese government.

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

Interface 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." 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]

The ministry has ordered culture departments across the country work with public security bureaus, industry and commerce and telecom departments, and publishing units to "investigate, confiscate and punish websites, computer software markets and Internet cafes, who disseminate or sell 'Football Manager 2005.'"

According to the circular, places that provide this game will be penalized with a fine up to 30,000 yuan (some 3,600 US dollars) 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 (1,800 US dollars) 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.

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