[GAMETOC] Genshin Impact 5.0 “Softens the Pity System”

New Mechanism-Equipped Characters to Debut…Scheduled for Release on August 28th

■ August 16 Genshin Impact 5.0 Special Livestream Redeem Codes

① 2SMTYV59TLFD: 100 Primogems, 10 Weapon Enhancement Materials

② 7SMTGV59BLXH: 100 Primogems, 5 Character EXP Materials

③ 8T4TGDLRA5E5: 100 Primogems, 50,000 Mora

Hoyoverse has announced that the Pity System in banner events will be softened in Genshin Impact 5.0.

On the 16th, Hoyoverse held a special livestream for Genshin Impact version 5.0 titled “Flowers Resplendent on the Sun-Scorched Sojourn.” The broadcast began with the official trailer for version 5.0. The trailer showcased the bright and sunny Natlan region, new characters with unique effects, hidden stories, and other elements that heightened fans’ anticipation.

The story takes place less than a year before the foretold destruction by the God of Fire, Mavuika. The protagonist and their companions face off against the Fatui to uncover secrets and prevent Natlan’s impending doom. The once-peaceful stage transforms into one filled with urgency and tension. The trailer ends with Mavuika charging towards the Fatui Harbinger, Capitano.

After the trailer, the scene shifts to Hoyoverse CEO Liu Wei reviewing fan feedback. After gathering the feedback, Liu Wei meets with Genshin Impact combat designer Aquaria and Genshin IP director Xiao Luhao for a discussion. 

■ Quick Q&A

Q. Will there be new movement mechanics in this version?

Genshin Impact is an open-world game. The most important thing is the feedback players receive based on their actions. So far, the concept of elements has been applied in Genshin Impact. Elements are also a form of feedback. For example, attacking a Cryo flower with Pyro allows you to harvest the flower.

Through many versions, we’ve expressed this feedback in various ways. In version 5.0, we have tried to incorporate all the feedback into the characters. There will be significant changes to character movement abilities.

Q. In version 5.0, can we explore the world on the dragon seen in the trailer?

This is a bit of a spoiler, but the flying dragon and other various types of dragons you’ll encounter in Natlan have unique exploration mechanics. These mechanics are closely related to the design of Natlan’s characters.

You might be curious whether you can control the dragon for exploration or tame it in some specific way. This involves a mechanism called “possession.” In Natlan, you gain the ability to control dragons through possession. The dragons have different exploration abilities depending on the situation, so you can look forward to that. They can even climb walls. Whether they can fly, you’ll have to find out for yourself.

Q. Where did the design for Natlan come from? Also, how do humans and dragons coexist?

In the Natlan tribe, dragons are like family. A more familiar comparison would be pets like dogs or cats in the real world. They live, work, and fight together, relying on and trusting each other. Though the people of Natlan and their dragon companions can’t speak to each other, they’ve spent so many years together that they’ve learned to understand one another.

When you visit each tribe in Natlan, you’ll find that each has its own way of interacting with dragons. For instance, in the first area you visit, “Echoes of The Eye,” you’ll see sturdy mountain dragons that help mine gems and minerals and carve paths through caves. In return, their claws and horns require care from humans. 

Q. How important is the Pyro element in version 5.0? Can new players easily access Natlan?

As a land of fire, Pyro is unique and practical in Natlan. Aside from regular fire, Natlan is rich in a substance called “heat element.” Heat elements exist in various forms, and each has its own unique use. You’ll notice this as soon as you enter Natlan.

Heat elements are a somewhat special type of Pyro element unique to Natlan. They can be used as an energy source or in combat. Of course, Pyro is not just valued for its combat or exploration utility; it also has significant spiritual meaning. Pyro is the spiritual pillar of Natlan.

A prime example of this is the “Stadium of the Sacred Flame,” a core location in Natlan. The unquenchable flame inside the stadium symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the people of Natlan. Many heroes of Natlan have passed down their fire to the next generation with their spirit and strength. No matter what trials and tribulations they face, their fire will never be extinguished.

Natlan is also known as a land of war due to its history of facing countless crises. The residents and dragons of Natlan have fought against forces that threatened their homeland. Through these battles, many heroes were born, and numerous valiant deeds were etched in obsidian, becoming ancient names.

Ancient names are a crucial concept in Natlan, serving as a means to pass down the achievements and spirit of heroes. The people of Natlan have grown under the guidance of these ancient names, continuously fighting to protect Natlan from great threats, just like the heroes in their history.

The competition among the six tribes still exists. They compete in the Stadium of the Sacred Flame to select the strongest warriors to send to the battlefield.

Q. Which forces are these warriors fighting against?

You’ll have to find out in version 5.0’s story.

Q. What is the personality of the Pyro Archon?

The Pyro Archon is the strongest warrior and leader of Natlan. The Pyro Archon has led Natlan’s warriors through countless wars, achieving countless victories. The Pyro Archon’s flame never extinguished before any enemy. The people and dragons of Natlan believe that as long as they follow the Pyro Archon, they can repel any invasion.

She is like the unyielding sun, dispelling all doubts and fears under her protection. Players will also meet the Pyro Archon, “Mavuika,” in Natlan. When you go to the battlefield with her, you’ll feel her radiant passion and warmth.

Her personality is something you’ll probably sense as soon as you meet her. She carries a confidence that matches her power. In the Natlan short video, when the Pyro Archon Mavuika steps out, you might have briefly felt that confidence.

Q. In the Natlan footprint video, there seems to be something related to resurrection. Does this mean someone in the Genshin universe will come back to life?

Discussing the resurrection of specific characters requires explaining other things. First, in a land of war, sacrifice is inevitable. Death is an event that is not easily reversed. However, in Natlan, the flames of heroes do not easily die out.

In the footprint video, Dainsleif says, “The defeated become ashes, and the victors are resurrected.” In Natlan, sacrifice does not stop the footsteps of heroes. They continue to fight until the war ends. However, how they are reignited is a core element of Natlan, so I’ll refrain from saying more.

Q. The Fatui Harbinger Capitano wears a thick helmet. Aren’t you worried he might faint in Natlan’s hot weather?

Capitano plays an important role in the main story of Natlan. The concepts of reignition and war, which were just mentioned, are, in a sense, the reasons why Capitano came here. And as for the concern about fainting from the heat, Capitano doesn’t suffer from heatstroke due to certain reasons.

■ Archon Quest Chapter 5

In version 5.0, Chapter 1 “Flowers Resplendent on the Sun-Scorched Sojourn” and Chapter 2 “Blackstone Under A White Stone” will be added. Completing the main story will immediately reward you with 500 Primogems on the event screen. Completing the tribal scouting and legendary mission stories in the release version will also grant additional Primogems and character growth materials.

Each tribe in Natlan has warriors with unique skills. The three new characters that will be introduced are warriors from three different tribes. In Chapter 1, you will join these warriors in the “Pilgrimage of the Night of the Returning Flame,” where you will witness a competition for the highest honor in Natlan.

However, one of them feels unworthy of being called a warrior. This person is the pure golden ore, “Kachina.”

■ Kachina

Kachina is a young warrior from the Nanatzcayan tribe who has inherited the ancient name “Usabiti.” She has a kind and tenacious personality, constantly growing despite setbacks. She possesses the Geo element Vision. The Korean voice acting is done by Son Sung-young.

Kachina can summon a special item called “Changsheng” with her skill. She can interact with Changsheng in various ways to move quickly or climb walls. She can also slam the ground to attack enemies or summon Changsheng as an independent combat unit that deals Geo damage.

In the early part of Chapter 5, Act 1 “Flowers Resplendent on the Sun-Scorched Sojourn,” you will meet Kachina, who will then join the protagonist’s party.

■ Malany

Malany is a well-known guide and water sports shop owner from the Springwater Tribe in Natlan. As her occupation suggests, she excels in swimming, diving, surfing, beach volleyball, and other water sports. She is a Hydro element character who uses a catalyst, and her Korean voice acting is done by Kim Do-hee.

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Players will embark on a journey with Malany to find the legendary mysterious island. Malany uses a unique combat style. She rides a watercraft called the “Shark Surfboard,” displaying excellent mobility on both land and water. Although her attack tempo is not very fast, her flexibility and quick movements give her an advantage in subsequent attacks.

Malany can move around while riding the Shark Surfboard, biting enemies and leaving marks. While the bite itself is not very strong, it grants significant advantages in subsequent attacks. While riding the Shark Surfboard, Malany’s movement speed and resistance to interruption are increased, allowing her to move across the water and liquid heat elements.

■ Kinichi

Kinichi is a young dragon hunter from the Nanatzcayan Tribe. Although he may appear reticent, he is known for his meticulous work. With years of outdoor experience, he is skilled in capturing all sorts of beasts and dragons and is one of the few warriors who have won the “Pilgrimage of the Night of the Returning Flame” multiple times. The Korean voice acting is done by Kang Sung-woo & Park Ri-na.

Kinichi is always accompanied by a peculiar dragon companion named “K’uhul Ajaw,” who assists in combat. K’uhul Ajaw’s design differs from other characters, and with its unique appearance comes a somewhat arrogant and eccentric personality.

Kinichi is determined and focused on completing his tasks and receiving appropriate rewards. Kinichi’s past and the history of the Nanatzcayan Tribe can be learned through the new legendary quest “Yupanqui’s Fire of Reminiscence.”

Kinichi is proficient in extreme sports. His elemental skill allows him to throw a hook for quick movement. His elemental combat skill connects to an enemy and triggers a special attack, allowing him to pull out a hand cannon called the “Piercing Thunderbolt” at the right time.

When Kinichi uses heat elements, he can use the grappling hook again to perform aerial ziplining. If the hook connects to an enemy, Kinichi changes his attack style to perform a spinning shot with the accumulation of “Nightsoul.” Entering the generated blind spots will further replenish Nightsoul. Once Nightsoul reaches its maximum, he can activate the powerful Piercing Thunderbolt attack.

■ Nightsoul’s Blessing

This is a new mechanic introduced for Natlan characters. Natlan characters utilize the Nightsoul’s Blessing to enhance their abilities. The power of the Nightsoul’s Blessing is created by a capability called “Heat Element Cut.” This ancient ritual allows Vision holders in Natlan to communicate with the tribe’s Great Spirit or ley lines, further enhancing their powers.

To help players adapt to the Natlan system more easily, the development team has also redesigned some of the trial domains starting from version 5.0. You can use the various abilities of the characters more conveniently and immerse yourself even further.

■ Event Wishes

First Half Characters: Malany, Kaedehara Kazuha (rerun), Kachina

First Half Weapon: Surfing Time (Catalyst)

Second Half Characters: Kinichi, Raiden Shogun (rerun)

Second Half Weapon: Fang of the Mountain King (Claymore)

■ New Forgeable Weapons

Epicial’s Flute (Sword), Earthshaker (Claymore), Rainbow’s Trace (Polearm), Yaksa’s Ring (Catalyst), Chain Breaker (Bow)

■ Web Event “Off to the Land of Fire!”

This event allows players to preview new content in version 5.0. Players can obtain three of Natlan’s forgeable weapons through the web event.

■ New Artifacts

New artifacts include “Obsidian Codex” and “Scroll of the Hero of Cinder City,” which can be obtained by challenging the new blessed domains in Natlan.

■ New Area “Land of Hot Springs and Colorful Rocks”

The warrior of the mountain leads the way on the path of glorious flowers, and the merfolk of the spring waters relay news throughout the night. Across the sands and beyond the sea, the long epic resonates in the land of eternal flames. Unprecedented adventures await in this land where humans and dragons coexist, passing through the burning altars and mysterious domains of the night. Major monsters in Natlan include the “Golden Flame Wyvern Tyrant” and the “Gluttonous Forest Dragon, King of the Mountain.”

■ Event Information

In version 5.0, the following events will be held: Thorn Crown, Traces of Color, Dodoco’s Boom Boom Adventure, Teyvat Memorial Photo, and Ley Line Overflow.

■ 4th Anniversary Benefits

Players will receive 1,600 Primogems, 1 Intertwined Fate, 2 Fragile Resin, the Blossoming Flame, and a Boom Boom Firework Box (which includes 10 Intertwined Fates as a reward for checking in during the Radiant Rainbow event). Additionally, the double bonus for the first purchase will be reset after the version 5.0 update.

■ Convenience Features

New features include a quick experience option for the main story, adjustments to the Returning Player Event “Star of Reunion” (with 10 additional Intertwined Fates), a new feature to view the locations of specialties, increased monster drop rates, opening of World Level 9, artifact experience material dismantling improvements, and the addition of the Sacred Frost feature.

■ Starlight Coalescence

When hitting the soft pity in a banner event, there’s a certain chance to trigger “Starlight Coalescence,” which guarantees the featured character of that banner. The base pity rates remain unchanged, but Starlight Coalescence reduces the chance of missing the banner character at soft pity. This effectively increases the chances of obtaining the featured character.

For weapon banners, the Fate Points required in the “Epitomized Path” system have been reduced from 2 to 1. Additionally, in every anniversary version of Genshin Impact, all players who have unlocked the wish system will have the chance to select one guaranteed 5-star character from the “Standard Wish” pool.

■ Revised Fantastic Buff Incident

The Strange Buff Incident will undergo a complete redesign. In the new version, clearer guidance will be provided based on the elemental reactions associated with the three elements for that rotation. In simple terms, it will be easier to understand which buffs to use for which party.

This buff incident will offer unique and powerful effects based on elemental reactions in the future. Additionally, players can use elemental combinations for simple yet effective strategies. The difficulty will be split into Normal and Transcendent Challenge modes. The Transcendent mode will be more challenging but offer greater rewards.

■ Genius Invokation TCG Updates

New character, monster, and action cards will be added. A Natlan card back will also be introduced. 

■ The Future of Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact’s development motto is always “evolution.” In the future, players will meet more companions and enemies on their journey. Some will be legendary figures you’ve only heard about in rumors, while others will be fleeting encounters. As you continue your journey to find your family, you will grow closer to the world of Genshin Impact. Please look forward to it.

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