Overwatch Banned in China: Is it Banned?

Overwatch being banned in China has of an instant become a topic of conversation all over the internet. The issue arose in the wake of a controversial decision from Blizzard to punish a Hearthstone player for speaking publicly in support of protests in Hong Kong. Here's what you need to know.

Overwatch Banned in China: Is it Banned?

Earlier this week, Hong Kong Hearthstone pro player Chung "blitzchung" Ng Wai expressed his support for the ongoing protests in Hong Kong resisting a controversial extradition bill and demanding full democracy in the city.

Blizzard responded by suspending blitzchung from pro Hearthstone play, rescinded his winnings, and fired the casters interviewing him despite their attempts to distance themselves from his message.

In the fallout from the ban, Overwatch players have attempted to turn Overwatch's Mei into a symbol of Hong Kong resistance, creating fan art of the Chinese scientist supporting Hong Kong protestors. One stated goal of the loose campaign is to get Overwatch banned in China, hurting Blizzard for capitulating to Chinese censorship.

As of yet, those efforts have yet to bear fruit: Overwatch remains available to play in China.

Blizzard has yet to comment on the Mei fan art, and has largely remained silent after issuing the blitzchung ban.

Photo courtesy of Blizzard