Genshin Impact’snew version is set to launch alongside New Year’s celebrations on January 1. TitledIncandescent Ode of Resurrection,this update follows version 5.2 and promises a “decisive battle within the main story,” according to the press release. Players can expect new characters, limited-time game modes, bosses, and “generous rewards” that go beyond the usual Primogems.

Genshin Impact Version 5.3

The story continues with Act V of the Natlan Archon Quest, where Mavuika and the Traveler will face the Abyss in a decisive battle. This also marks the moment when the Traveler unlocks the Pyro element.

Mavuika, the Pyro Archon, is one of the new characters. She “can use her pyrocycle for explosions and combat.” Another new addition is Citlali a 5-star character known as the abu Itztli, who provides shields for her teammates while dealing Cryo damage. Lan Yan, a 4-star character, offers an adaptive elemental shield that can be deployed in battle.

Genshin Impact

These characters and more will help players take on the new boss Hermetic Spiritist Ascetic and the weekly boss Corroded Lord of Primordial Flame. As usual during this season, the Lantern Rite event returns with a new story, minigames, and rewards—including the festive outfit “Joyous Gathering” for Xiangling. Speaking of minigames, the musical gameplay mode becomes permanent, and Epitome Portraits adds Kaedehara Kazuha and Ganyu.

New Optimizations in Version 5.3

The Chinese developer highlights several “new optimizations” aimed at enhancing gameplay convenience. Improvements include:

Version 5.3 Rewards

Players can claim the following rewards for free starting January 1:

Genshin Impact is available for free on PC, Android, iPhone, PS5, PS4, and, as of late November, on Xbox Series X/S. In this open-world action RPG, players take on the role of the Traveler to uncover the fate of a lost sibling. This journey leads them to explore Teyvat—a world that is continually expanding with new nations, stories, characters, and gameplay modes.

PC

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