SEX and gore are banned, replaced with ancient myths whose benevolent heroes will help to wean teenagers off their favourite violent computer games.
That, at least, is the wish of the Chinese Government, which has earmarked more than £150 million to nurture an indigenous programming community to produce home-grown electronic entertainment.

An initial batch of 100 games has been commissioned concentrating on Chinese literary classics, national myths and stories of Chinese adventurers. As well as promoting domestic industry, the programme will, it is hoped, foster a sense of patriotism among the young and help their education.

Nearly 50 companies have joined the four-year programme, attracted by tax breaks and cheap loans, according to Yu Yongzhan, deputy director of the Press and Publication Administration.

The drive comes after the announcement last month of a government initiative to support the “healthy” use of online facilities, a programme welcomed by many parents.