Genshin Impact Introduces Mandatory Age Verification for US Players

Genshin Impact, the hugely popular gacha game developed by miHoYo, is rolling out a new age verification requirement for its US players. Effective May 20, 2025, this initiative is designed to comply with legal regulations aimed at protecting minors in the gaming community. Players will need to verify their age by July 18, 2025, or risk facing severe consequences, including account suspension and potential permanent deletion. Here’s what you need to know.

The Context Behind the Requirement

Since its launch in 2020, Genshin Impact has soared to the top of the gaming charts alongside other hit titles like Arknights and Honkai Star Rail. Despite its acclaim, the game has faced its share of controversies, particularly regarding its gacha system and how it handles the data of minors. Earlier in January 2025, miHoYo was fined $20 million as a result of these issues and subsequently agreed to implement measures to enhance protections for younger players. With this age verification policy, the company aims to align itself with stipulations set forth in a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

How the Age Verification Will Work

Starting May 20, 2025, players will be prompted to verify their age. This requirement will be integrated into the account registration process and will also be accessible during regular gameplay. Players must provide their age before the deadline of July 18, 2025. Failure to complete this verification will result in account suspension, during which all in-game records and chat history will be deleted.

As stated in miHoYo’s announcement, “No further notifications post-suspension will be provided due to inaccessible account information as required by law.” To avoid losing access to their accounts, players must ensure they meet the age verification requirements by the final deadline of July 20, 2026. At that point, any account that remains unverified will be permanently deleted.

The Stakes for Players

For many, Genshin Impact isn’t just a game; it’s a community filled with memories, achievements, and coveted characters. Losing access to an account, especially one populated with powerful 5-star characters and rare weapons, would be a devastating blow to players who have invested significant time and resources into the game. As we approach the implementation date, players are encouraged to stay informed and ready to step through the verification process.

In summary, if you’re a Genshin Impact player in the US, it’s crucial to prepare for this new requirement. The forthcoming age verification process not only ensures compliance with legal regulations but also safeguards the future of a vibrant gaming community. Don’t let years of dedication go to waste — make sure to verify your age once the system goes live.

For ongoing updates about Genshin Impact and its features, you can check out our related articles on the Genshin Impact community, the evolution of the gacha system, and details regarding miHoYo’s collaborations and events in the gaming world.