In a move designed to boost the financial and cultural relevance of its Shanghai Free Trade Zone, China will lift a 13-year long ban on video game and console sales, according a document released by its State Council. The document states that game companies like Sony and Nintendo will now be allowed to sell games and consoles throughout the country, on the condition that the companies establish joint venture operations in the Shanghai Free Trade Zone. The FTZ is China’s attempt to create a cultural and financial hub in Shanghai that might one day match or surpass cities like New York and London. The products released by gaming companies must first meet the guidelines of China’s Ministry of Culture before hitting the market.

In 2000, China placed a ban on the sale of video games due to concerns over the impact of game violence on children. Although popular consoles…