NetEase Declares War on World of Warcraft Cheaters
As World of Warcraft (WoW) gears up for its highly-anticipated return to China on August 1, publisher NetEase is taking unprecedented measures to ensure a fair and cheat-free gaming environment.
The company has announced a bounty program that offers rewards of up to $14,000 for reports that lead to the punishment of cheat creators and distributors.
What Prompted NetEase to Offer Such a High Bounty?
NetEase’s decision to offer this substantial bounty comes as WoW prepares to relaunch in China after a year-long absence due to disputes with the publisher.
With the upcoming release of the expansion “The War Within” and the return of “Wrath of the Lich King Classic,” NetEase aims to “purify the environment of Azeroth” and crack down on cheating from the get-go.
How Can Players Participate in the Bounty Program?
NetEase has outlined two ways for players to participate in the bounty program:
- In-game misconduct reporting: Players can report cheaters and hackers within the game. NetEase will maintain a weekly leaderboard throughout July, and top-ranking reporters will receive Battle.net points at the end of each month.
- Assisting law enforcement: Players who help authorities build cases against cheat creators and distributors can receive rewards of up to ¥100,000 (approximately $14,000).
Is Cheating a Serious Offense in China?
Yes, creating, distributing, and using cheats is often met with severe consequences in China:
| Year | Incident | Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 5 hackers developed cheats for a PUBG mobile game | 6-9 months in prison |
| 2021 | Operation “Chicken Drumstick” targeted cheat websites and resellers | 17 websites shut down, 10 resellers arrested, $46 million in assets seized |
| 2021 | Authorities shut down a $77 million cheating empire | Empire dismantled |
These incidents demonstrate that NetEase’s bounty program aligns with China’s strict stance against cheating in video games.
What Impact Will the Bounty Program Have on WoW’s Return to China?
NetEase’s proactive approach to combating cheaters is expected to have a positive impact on WoW’s relaunch in China. By incentivizing players to report misconduct and cooperate with law enforcement, the company aims to create a fair and enjoyable gaming experience for all players.
As WoW prepares for its triumphant return to China, NetEase’s $14,000 bounty program sends a clear message that cheating will not be tolerated. With players now financially motivated to report misconduct, cheaters may think twice before attempting to disrupt the world of Azeroth.
As the August 1 relaunch approaches, the gaming community eagerly awaits to see the impact of this unprecedented anti-cheating initiative.
