China finally gets official PlayStations, minus some games
Japanese electronics giant Sony today launched its PlayStation gaming console in China, where authorities impose strict controls on content.

But some popular games titles including "Grand Theft Auto" and "Call of Duty" were not available to Chinese customers.

China last year authorised the domestic sale of game consoles through its first free-trade zone (FTZ) in Shanghai, ending a 2000 ban that authorities argued was aimed at protecting the country's youth.

The start of selling Sony's PlayStation 4 consoles, originally planned for January, makes it the second foreign company into the Chinese market after rival Microsoft.

It launched its Xbox One console in China in September.

Gaming consoles brought into mainland China through unofficial channels were already widely available online and at the country's many electronics markets.

Games must pass inspection by China's cultural authorities, in line with government restrictions on content it deems to be obscene, violent or politically sensitive.

Only four PlayStation 4 titles were available at Sony's flagship Shanghai store today: fantasy adventure "Dynasty Warriors 8: Xtreme Legends", motorcycle racing game "Trials Fusion" and youth-oriented "Knack" and "Rayman Legends".

Analysts said a broader selection of games is the key to longer-term success in China's multi-billion-dollar market.

They said that for the average gamer, access to major titles with Chinese subtitles or dubbed in Mandarin will be vital.