Genshin Impact Authors Fined $20M, Ban Lootbox Sales to Kids

Cognosphere, the U.S. publisher behind the popular game Genshin Impact, has accepted charges from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The company has agreed to a $20 million settlement and will implement measures to prevent minors under 16 from making in-game purchases without parental consent. Additionally, Cognosphere pleaded guilty to the FTC's accusations of violating the Children's Privacy Act and deceiving players about the value of in-game purchases and the chances of obtaining rare items. This deceptive practice led to significant financial losses for children, teenagers, and other players, who spent hundreds of dollars on items with minimal chances of acquisition.

Samuel Levin, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, emphasized that companies employing 'dark patterns' to mislead players, especially young ones, about the true value of in-game transactions will face repercussions.

Meanwhile, another title from HoYoverse, Zenless Zone Zero, continues to dominate the mobile gaming market. With the launch of its version 1.4 update, "And the Starfall came," the game set a new record, generating $8.6 million in daily player spending on mobile devices. This surpasses the previous peak established during its July 2024 release. According to AppMagic, Zenless Zone Zero has amassed over $265 million in total revenue from mobile platforms. The 1.4 update introduced new agents, Hoshimi Miyabi and Asaba Harumasa, along with new locations, gameplay modes, and enhanced mechanics, all of which have spurred increased player spending.