Genshin Impact Version 7.1 is looking absolutely packed, but there’s one moment that immediately steals the spotlight: players are finally going to meet the Tsaritsa face-to-face. Revealed during the recent 7.1 livestream and after years of build-up surrounding Snezhnaya and the Fatui’s mysterious leader, the latest Archon Quest will finally put Travelers in the same room as the Cryo Archon. She will also reveal the true purpose behind her collection of the Gnoses.
And if that wasn’t enough, the journey will also bring players up against Ronova, the Ruler of Death. Ronova won’t just be a major part of the story, either. She’s also a new Weekly Boss, giving players another reason to revisit the encounter after completing the main story quest.
Two New Characters Are Joining the Fight
Version 7.1 will introduce two new 5-star characters, with Vesna and Vodyanitsa arriving during the first phase. Vesna is a 5-star Anemo Sword wielder, while Vodyanitsa is a 5-star Hydro Catalyst user. Both characters are designed around new ways of enhancing Stellar Swirl reactions, giving players another reason to experiment with reaction-focused teams.
The first phase Event Wishes will feature both Vesna and Vodyanitsa, while the second phase will bring back Skirk and Escoffier. That gives players quite a bit to consider when deciding where to spend their Primogems, especially with the anniversary rewards coming alongside the update.
Liyue is also getting a long-awaited reunion with the return of the Moonchase Festival. The celebration is heading back to Yilong Wharf for the first time in five years, where players will uncover an ancient story, take part in three new mini-games, and earn a new 4-star Sword.
That’s not all the update has planned. Snezhnaya and Natlan will both host limited-time events, while Miliastra Wonderland is getting an autumn-themed event featuring a free cosmetic set, an exclusive headpiece, and additional rewards.
Genshin Impact’s Sixth Anniversary Is Bringing Some Huge Rewards
Then there’s the part that is going to get plenty of players logging in: Genshin Impact’s sixth anniversary celebration!
Players who complete the latest Archon Quest will be able to choose one event-exclusive 5-star character for free from a select line-up! But more than simple generosity, players will also receive another choice of one standard 5-star character, 1,600 Primogems, 10 Intertwined Fates, and even more anniversary rewards.
HoYoFair is also returning for the occasion with another Genshin Impact Fan Art Special Program. “Project: Nord Express” will premiere on YouTube on September 20th at 20:00 UTC+8, featuring around 16 fan-created animated shorts alongside original fan music. The showcase will include the highly anticipated finale to the current Genshin Elemental Warfare arc, as well as a brand-new short from KIERU featuring even more fan-favorite characters from Snezhnaya.
With the Tsaritsa finally stepping into the spotlight, Moonchase returning after five years, two new 5-stars, and a free event-exclusive 5-star waiting for players, Version 7.1 is shaping up to be one seriously loaded update. Most of the goodies end with the 7.1 update though, so be sure to login and snatch them up before they’re gone!
