Tencent, a prominent investor in the gaming industry and owner of Riot Games, has been designated as a Chinese military company by the US Department of Defense. This classification, which also includes battery maker CATL, has stirred controversy as Tencent refers to it as a mistake. While this designation does not impose legal sanctions, it complicates business dealings in the United States for Tencent, which has substantial stakes in various gaming firms such as Epic Games, Larian Studios, and FromSoftware. Tencent is actively working to contest this classification and has expressed confidence that it will not affect its business operations.

What does the designation of Tencent as a Chinese military company mean for the gaming industry?

The designation suggests potential scrutiny on Tencent’s investments and operations, possibly leading to increased regulatory challenges and impacting future partnerships within the US gaming market. However, Tencent has stated that it does not foresee any immediate impact on its business.

League of Legends, developed by Riot Games and launched in 2009, is one of the most prominent games under Tencent’s umbrella. The title has become a cornerstone of the esports ecosystem, featuring millions of players globally and a vast competitive scene that continues to thrive despite challenges facing its parent company. With Tencent's influence in gaming, this designation has raised concerns among players and developers alike about the future of their favorite games.