Home News Genshin Impact 5.6 Update: Mandatory Age Verification and Transparent Gacha Pricing for US Players

Genshin Impact 5.6 Update: Mandatory Age Verification and Transparent Gacha Pricing for US Players

In January 2025, HoYoverse, the developer of Genshin Impact, agreed to a $20 million settlement with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over allegations of violating children’s privacy laws and misleading players about in-game purchase odds. As part of the settlement, HoYoverse is implementing significant changes to enhance transparency and protect younger players.

Mandatory Age Verification for U.S. Players

Starting May 20, 2025, all U.S. Genshin Impact players will be required to verify their age during login or account creation. Players must submit their age information by July 18, 2025. Failure to complete verification will result in account suspension, deletion of in-game friends and chat history, and eventual permanent deletion of personal information by July 20, 2026. Children under 16 can still play but will need parental consent to make in-game purchases.

Enhanced Transparency in Gacha Mechanics

With the release of Version 5.6 on May 7, 2025, HoYoverse has introduced clearer disclosures regarding the gacha system. Players can now see the exact odds of obtaining 5-star characters or weapons, which stand at over 1.1%. The cost to acquire these items ranges from $1.98 to $422.40, depending on luck and payment methods. This move addresses community concerns about the lack of transparency in the game’s monetization practices.

Pricing Display Adjustments for U.S. Players

HoYoverse has updated the price display for in-game purchases on the official website’s Top-Up Center and PC platforms. U.S. players will now see the base price of items along with associated taxes and fees, in compliance with U.S. market policies. This change aims to provide players with a clearer understanding of the actual costs involved in their purchases.

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Genshin Impact genshin impact US settlement genshin US adjustment MiHoYo

Sai T.

Sai is a social media manager and senior web content creator who spends his days juggling game research, deadlines, and the usual existential crisis. When he isn’t crafting content that hopefully goes viral, he’s a dedicated single parent doing his best to navigate work life balance. And in the rare moments when free time actually appears, he’s usually found with his two dogs, who are fully convinced they’re the ones in charge.