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 children under 16 without parental consent. Cognosphere admitted guilt on FTC charges alleging deceptive practices regarding in-game purchases and violations of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The FTC accused Cognosphere of misleading players, particularly children and teens, about the value of in-game items and the probability of obtaining rare items, leading to significant, often unnecessary, spending. FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Samuel Levin emphasized that companies employing deceptive "dark patterns" will face repercussions for misleading consumers, especially minors.
Meanwhile, HoYoverse's Zenless Zone Zero continues its mobile market success. Following the release of version 1.4, "And the Starfall Came," the game reached a record daily player spending of $8.6 million on mobile platforms alone, surpassing its previous peak in July 2024. AppMagic data reveals Zenless Zone Zero has amassed over $265 million in mobile revenue. Update 1.4's additions—new characters (Hoshimi Miyabi and Asaba Harumasa), locations, game modes, and enhanced mechanics—fueled increased player spending.
