The newest update for Genshin Impact has been announced, and features a new location, new characters, and visual improvements using new technologies. Version 4.4 Vibrant Harriers Aloft in Spring Breeze will be released on Jan. 31, and is detailed on the PlayStation blog.
To celebrate the new year, the Lantern Rite will be held in Liyue Harbor, and will be themed around kites. Minigame participation and daily login will provide access to in-game rewards including new outfits for Xingqiu, Ganyu, and Shenhe.
The update also adds the new playable 5-star Anemo character Xianyun, the human form of the NPC Cloud Retainer. With her catalyst, she can use aerial attacks, heal allies, and enhance others’ jump height and Plunging Attacks. A new 4-star Pyro Claymore user, Gaming, incorporates Wushou dance moves into his combat. Nahida, Xiao, and Yae Miko will also be rerun.
A new area, Chenyu Vale, will also be made accessible. This mountainous area features the human settlements Qiaoying Village and Yilong Wharf, which are known for tea production and water elevators respectively. Most of the area, however, is natural, and contains the new boss enemy Solitary Suanni.
Image via Sony
The valley was created with the new Global Far Fog and Gradient Tint Rock technologies on PlayStation, PC, and mobile. This renders near and far hills, valleys, and waterfalls with a cloud and mist cover to replicate the style of shan shui painting.
The Global Far Fog feature allows for different densities and directions of clouds depending on elevation and terrain, with thick clouds in low, narrow valleys and a lighter mist in high and open areas.
The Gradient Tint Rock feature allows for natural transitions between cyan, green, and tan elements of the mountain based on “altitude, distance, textural characteristics of the rocks, and structure of each mountain.” This provides an overall more visually impressive experience.
The update will be available Jan. 31.