Privacy Policy

Aetherbound (browser game) · Last updated April 2026

Not legal advice. This page explains how the Aetherbound web app handles data in plain language. Have it reviewed by qualified counsel before you rely on it for compliance.

Who operates this

Aetherbound is operated independently of other personal or studio sites. Contact for privacy questions should use the in-game feedback flow or the address published with the game.

What we collect and why

Account (optional). If you sign in with Google, Firebase Authentication processes credentials under Google’s and Firebase’s terms. We receive identifiers needed to associate cloud saves or verified features with your account.
Guest play. You can play without signing in. Progress may still be stored locally on your device (see below).
Game save data. Progress is stored in your browser using local storage (and may be synced to Firebase when signed in, depending on app configuration). It includes game state you generate by playing.
Analytics. We use Google Analytics for Firebase to understand usage (for example onboarding funnels and rough progression timing). Events are aggregated; they may include coarse flags such as guest vs signed-in where the client sends them.
Server features. Features such as verified leaderboard submissions or cloud functions send data you explicitly trigger to Firebase (Firestore / Cloud Functions) as described in-game.
Public handle (optional). If you choose a display name in Account → Profile, we store it in Firestore as your public handle. It can appear next to your verified leaderboard entry. Handles must be unique (case-insensitive). You can change your handle from the same screen; repeated renames are rate-limited to reduce abuse. The same identifier is reserved for possible future chat features.

Cookies and similar storage

The app and Firebase may use cookies and local storage to keep you signed in, remember settings, measure basic analytics, and cache the game for offline/PWA use. You can clear site data in your browser; that may sign you out and remove local saves.

Third-party services

The game loads assets and fonts from its host and may use Google Firebase (Authentication, Firestore, Analytics, Cloud Functions, Hosting) and Google Fonts where referenced. Those providers have their own privacy policies.

Children

Aetherbound is not directed at children under 13. Do not use the service if you are under the age required in your region without parental consent.

Changes

We may update this policy when the app changes. The “Last updated” line will change; material changes may also be noted in patch notes.