Cognosphere, the US publisher of Genshin Impact, has agreed to a settlement with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The settlement includes a $20 million penalty and a ban on in-app purchases by minors under 16 without parental consent. Cognosphere pleaded guilty to FTC charges alleging deceptive practices regarding the value of in-game purchases and the probability of obtaining rare items, as well as violations of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The FTC accused Cognosphere of misleading players, particularly children and teens, into spending significant sums on items with low acquisition chances. FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Samuel Levin emphasized that companies employing manipulative tactics will face repercussions for deceiving players, especially minors.
Meanwhile, HoYoverse's Zenless Zone Zero continues its mobile market success. Version 1.4, "And the Starfall Came," saw a record-breaking $8.6 million in daily player spending on mobile platforms alone, surpassing its July 2024 launch peak. AppMagic data indicates Zenless Zone Zero has amassed over $265 million in mobile revenue. Update 1.4's additions – new agents (Hoshimi Miyabi and Asaba Harumasa), locations, game modes, and enhanced mechanics – fueled increased player spending.
