Genshin Impact has introduced significant updates aimed at enhancing player protection and transparency, particularly for its US player base. Following a $20 million settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over concerns related to data handling and pricing practices involving underage users, HoYoverse has implemented a mandatory age verification system and improved pricing transparency in the game’s Version 5.6 update.
Mandatory Age Verification for US Players
To comply with legal requirements, all Genshin Impact accounts registered in the United States must complete an age verification process. This system began rolling out on May 20, 2025, and applies both to existing accounts upon login and to new account registrations. Players are required to submit their age information by July 18, 2025.
Failure to complete the verification by this deadline will lead to several consequences:
- Suspension of the player’s account
- Deletion of in-game friends and chat history
- No further notifications after suspension, as access to account information will be legally restricted
If the age verification remains incomplete by July 20, 2026, HoYoverse will permanently delete all personal information associated with the affected accounts. This strict measure underscores the company’s commitment to protecting minors and complying with regulatory standards.
Enhanced Pricing Transparency in Gacha Mechanics
Alongside age verification, Genshin Impact’s Version 5.6 update introduces clearer pricing information for in-game purchases, specifically focusing on the gacha system. Players can now see estimated costs required to obtain a coveted 5-star event-exclusive character or weapon. The probability of acquiring such a 5-star item stands at just over 1.1%.
The estimated spending to secure a 5-star character or weapon ranges widely-from as little as $1.98 to as much as $422.40-depending on the player’s luck and payment method. This new transparency aims to address long-standing community concerns about the randomness and potential expenses involved in the gacha draws, helping players make more informed decisions.
Commitment to Player Trust and Compliance
These changes reflect HoYoverse’s efforts to build greater trust with its player community by prioritizing legal compliance and ethical game practices. By introducing age verification, the company ensures that minors are protected from inappropriate data collection and spending. Meanwhile, the enhanced visibility into gacha costs fosters a fairer and more transparent gaming environment.
Players interested in staying updated on Genshin Impact news and further developments can follow the official Genshin Impact accounts on Twitter and Facebook, where HoYoverse regularly posts announcements and community updates.
With the introduction of mandatory age verification and improved pricing transparency, Genshin Impact sets a new standard for responsible gaming practices in the mobile and PC gaming industry. US players must complete the age verification process by July 18, 2025, to avoid account suspension and data deletion. Meanwhile, the clearer insight into gacha spending empowers players to better understand the game’s monetization mechanics.
These updates not only comply with regulatory requirements but also demonstrate HoYoverse’s dedication to creating a safer, more transparent, and player-friendly gaming experience. As Genshin Impact continues to evolve, these measures will help maintain its position as one of the world’s leading open-world action RPGs, trusted by millions of players globally.