By Sagar V. Mankar Genshin Impact, the blockbuster gacha RPG by HoYoverse, celebrates its fourth anniversary on September 28, 2024. Alongside this milestone, the game has rolled out its Version 5.0 update, introducing the vibrant region of Natlan. This update not only expands the game’s world but also reflects HoYoverse’s ongoing commitment to keeping its flagship title fresh and engaging.
A Financial Powerhouse
Since its release in 2020, Genshin Impact has established itself as a major force in mobile gaming, generating $6.3 billion in lifetime mobile revenue from the App Store and Google Play, according to AppMagic. This staggering figure averages out to $1.6 billion annually, making it one of the most lucrative mobile games of all time.
The game’s financial success was evident from the start, with $100 million earned within the first two weeks of its launch and $2 billion by its first anniversary. These achievements cemented its place as a top-tier game, earning accolades such as “Best Game” at the Google Play Awards 2020 and the top spot on the 2023 Top 50 Mobile Game Makers list.
Revenue Trends: Growth, Peak, and Decline
However, the game’s revenue has shown a steady decline over the years. Genshin Impact earned $1.9 billion in its first year, followed by $1.8 billion in its second and $1.6 billion in its third. For the current year, revenue fell below $1 billion for the first time, with $931.4 million generated since September 2023.
The decline accelerated with the release of competing titles from HoYoverse itself. For instance, Honkai: Star Rail, launched in April 2023, caused a 38.6% drop in month-on-month revenue for Genshin Impact. Similarly, the debut of Zenless Zone Zero in July 2024 further diverted player spending, leaving Genshin with only $116 million in three months, while the new game earned $150 million in the same period.
Despite the downward trend, Genshin Impact has seen moments of financial success. Notable updates, such as Version 4.2 in November 2023, drove significant player spending, with $15 million earned on update day alone. Similarly, Version 4.6 in April 2024 achieved a revenue spike of $13.4 million on launch day, a 227% increase compared to the day prior. These updates underscore the power of Genshin’s monetization strategy, which revolves around introducing new characters, weapons, and quests.
A Legacy of Success
Genshin Impact’s lifetime revenue milestones reflect not just its popularity but also its impact on the gaming industry. As HoYoverse explores new ventures with games like Honkai: Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero, Genshin’s financial performance may serve as a blueprint for sustaining engagement and revenue over time.
Sources: AppMagic