Why Pokemon GO is banned in China is a bit of an in-depth question because the game isn't necessarily banned in the country.

Pokemon GO is a mobile augmented reality game developed by The Pokemon Company and Niantic Labs. The game released July 6, 2016 and is available for iOS and Android platforms.

The game is not technically banned in china, but it is still very hard to play in the country. Here's everything you need to know about Pokemon GO's playability in China.

Time to test your battle skills, Trainers! ?
Your full week of exciting raids starts now!

— Pokémon GO (@PokemonGoApp) May 21, 2019

Why Pokemon GO is Banned in China: Is it Banned?

Google services are restricted in China via the Great Firewall. Meaning, the GPS requirements to play Pokemon GO don't work, though there are VPNs and such that allow players to play the game in the country.

So, is it banned? In some sort, yes. Is it unplayable? In some sort, no. It's a tricky situation.

Pokemon GO's major region release dates are as follows:

  • Oceania - July 6, 2016
  • North America - July 6, 2016
  • Europe - July 13, 2016
  • Japan - July 22, 2016
  • India - Dec. 14, 2016

Photo courtesy of The Pokemon Company/Niantic Labs