Hong Kong Police Warn Against Game Advocating Dissent
Growing Concerns Over National Security Violations
Hong Kong police issued a stark warning this week regarding a mobile game titled Reversed Front: Bonfire, which allows users to confront an avatar representing China’s Communist Party. Authorities advised that downloading this game could potentially lead to national security violations following its disappearance from the Apple App Store.
Game Description Raises Red Flags
Developed by a Taiwan-based company, the game encourages players to "pledge allegiance" to regions like Taiwan, Tibet, and Hong Kong, aiming to "overthrow the communist regime." Although set in an alternate historical universe, the description explicitly states: “This game is a work of NON-FICTION,” and claims that any similarities to real entities or policies are "INTENTIONAL."
Police described Reversed Front as “advocating armed revolution” and tasked with promoting independence for Taiwan and Hong Kong. They cautioned that mere possession of the game could lead to charges of possessing seditious material, while in-game purchases might be interpreted as funding the developer for acts of secession or subversion.
The Implications of Playing
In an increasingly restrictive political climate, recommending the game could be considered incitement to secession. Although players can take on roles that fight against the Communist Party, the game characterizes Communist figures as “heavy-handed, reckless, and inept,” blaming them for corruption, exploitation, and widespread human rights abuses.
The backdrop of this controversy lies in the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020, which effectively curbed political dissent in the territory after massive pro-democracy protests in 2019. The vibrant civil society that once thrived in Hong Kong has diminished significantly under this law.
Unforeseen Popularity Surge
Despite the police warnings, the game’s developer noted a significant increase in interest and searches following the police announcement, humorously expressing gratitude for the unexpected publicity. Meanwhile, reports indicated that the game had already vanished from the Hong Kong App Store, although it was briefly accessible just days prior.
In addition to the local backlash, OpenAI reported that it had identified and banned a series of accounts from China targeting Reversed Front with critical comments, suggesting an organized effort to undermine the game amid its rising profile.
As this situation develops, it remains a poignant illustration of the ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression and national security in Hong Kong.
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