Gaming giant NetEase (NTES-S) is spearheading a major confrontation with China's largest Android smartphone manufacturers. Players browsing gaming communities recently noticed an unusual phenomenon—screenshots circulating online showed NetEase games disappearing from OPPO's app store. Initially dismissed as temporary glitches, the issue has expanded with increasing reports of similar disappearances from Xiaomi, Vivo, and other brands' app stores.

From Eternal City to Justice Online, Sky: Children of the Light, and Invincible, NetEase's flagship titles are systematically withdrawing from Android distribution channels. This coordinated retreat marks an industry-wide rebellion against exorbitant "Android taxes"—a long-tolerated practice where manufacturers take up to 50% of in-app purchase revenue, double Apple's notorious 30% App Store commission.

OPPO customer service confirmed partial game suspensions, following NetEase's gradual withdrawal of major titles like Fantasy Westward Journey and LifeAfter from OPPO platforms since last year. The movement has gained momentum with Tencent's recent announcement that DNF Mobile will bypass certain Android app stores starting June 20.

This collective action by industry leaders signals a potential seismic shift in China's mobile gaming landscape. For developers burdened by excessive channel fees, abandoning traditional distribution channels may become a viable strategic alternative.