Game Revenue Soars, but “Dark Clouds” Persist at Bilibili
On July 2, 2023, Bilibili, a leading video streaming platform and game publisher in China, announced significant news that has caught the attention of the tech and gaming communities. According to reports, Mr. Zhang Zaimin, the former general manager of the gaming division, has been detained for his involvement in a “serious crime during his tenure.” This incident is considered the latest development in the ongoing crackdown on corruption sweeping through major Chinese tech companies.
In an email sent by Bilibili, Mr. Zhang is accused of violating legal regulations related to job responsibilities during his time with the company. Although specific details of the criminal activities have not been disclosed, the fact that he was detained by public security authorities indicates a serious breach that is now subject to legal scrutiny.
Prior to joining Bilibili, Mr. Zhang held positions at major corporations such as HSBC, Huawei, and Shanghai Moser, with extensive experience in the gaming sector. His background suggested a promising future, but the ongoing investigations have raised concerns about the governance of major tech firms.
In its Q1 2025 financial report, Bilibili recorded 7.003 billion yuan in revenue, a 24% increase compared to the same period last year. The gaming segment alone generated 1.731 billion yuan, reflecting a robust 76% increase and accounting for 25% of total revenue. However, this growth is occurring amidst significant issues that have yet to be effectively managed.
Many “Big Players” in the Gaming Industry Face Serious Allegations
Interestingly, just a day before Bilibili’s announcement was made public, Perfect World, another notable gaming company, also reported serious corruption issues within its studios. Reports indicate that several senior employees violated company policies and labor contracts, with some being suspected of criminal conduct and subsequently referred to police for further investigation.
It is evident that major gaming companies are developing amidst a backdrop of increasing regulatory scrutiny. As they navigate the current management phase, many mistakes are becoming evident. Clearly, both Bilibili and Perfect World must enter a “rectification” phase if they wish to continue their long-term growth amidst the prevailing corruption challenges.
The fact that major companies like Bilibili and Perfect World are actively addressing violations indicates a strong response to the current wave of corruption in the gaming industry. Not only does it aim to improve internal management, but it also seeks to restore user trust, investor confidence, and market stability in a highly competitive environment.
Source: Sohu
