Observed Signal · Sep 7, 2026 · Market Report · Source: PocketGamer.biz · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Positive
China's games market tops $50bn for first time in 2025
China's video game market generated $51.8 billion in 2025, up 5.4% year-over-year, surpassing the $50 billion mark for the first time, according to a Niko Partners report. The market is forecast to grow 4% in 2026 to $53.9 billion and reach $59.8 billion by 2030, with the player base projected to hit 769 million. Annual ARPU exceeded $70 in 2025 and is expected to reach $77.68 by 2030. Short video apps have become the leading game discovery channel, with 41% of players using them. Mini games account for nearly 20% of mobile game spending. Esports engagement increased to 51.3% of players. Generative AI is expected to play a larger role in development, and live-service games are evolving into user-generated content platforms. Niko Partners' outlook is more positive than its November 2025 forecast.
This report highlights significant growth and trends in the Chinese gaming market, which is a major area for advertising and monetization, including in-game ads and emerging models like out-of-app monetization.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- China's video game market surpassed $50 billion for the first time, generating $51.8 billion in 2025.
- China's games market is forecast to reach $59.8 billion by 2030.
- China's player base is forecast to reach 769 million by 2030.
- Short video is the leading game discovery channel, used by 41% of players.
- Mini games account for nearly 20% of mobile game spending in China.
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
China Builds Global Games Powerhouse
China remains a dominant and growing force in the global games industry, accounting for roughly 27% of global consumer game spending in 2025 and hosting about 720 million players. Market research firms Niko Partners and Newzoo report Chinese market revenues above $50 billion in 2025, with modest growth forecast for 2026 and further expansion to 2030. Major domestic publishers (Tencent, NetEase, Perfect World, Hoyoverse) and a range of mobile developers are driving cross‑platform successes and international expansion. Mini‑games/mini‑program platforms and monetisation changes (in‑app purchases, ads) are notable growth areas, while generative AI and user‑generated content are highlighted as potential disruptors that could lower production costs and enable new personalised experiences. The market is mature and concentrated, creating barriers for new studios despite opportunities for innovators and AI‑native entrants.
CIGDC Opens; China Urged to Prioritize Game Innovation
The China International Game Developers Conference (CIGDC) opened a week of industry events in China, with Tang Jiajun — deputy secretary general of CADPA and secretary general of the Game Publishing Committee (GPC) — urging developers to prioritise cultural innovation, personal experience and persistence rather than following algorithmic trends or chasing short-term market fads. The article highlights the strength and scale of China’s games market: the Mini-Games segment generated approximately $7.65 billion in 2025 (up 34.39% year-over-year) and is forecast to reach about $9.72 billion in 2026, while Niko Partners projects China will see $59.8 billion in consumer spending with 769 million players. The piece names leading Chinese game companies and points readers to further regional reporting.
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