The three-hour rule refers to the strict statutory restriction enacted by Chinese regulatory authorities that caps online video game consumption for minors under the age of eighteen at a maximum of three hours per week. Implemented via mandatory real-name verification systems integrated by major domestic tech corporations like Tencent and NetEase, children are legally permitted precisely one hour of online gameplay from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM exclusively on Fridays, weekends, and official public holidays, completely locking them out during weekdays.