Rumors have been running rampant for some time, but today HoYoverse officially pulled the wraps off Genshin Impact’s major 4.0 update. As anticipated, 4.0 introduces the new region of Fontaine, a water-themed land described as a “hub of culture, art, and technology.” Basically, the region has a bit of a European, steampunk flare to it. According to HoYoverse, in Fontaine “trials have become important public events at the Opera Epiclese” and the latest core Archon story quest will see players “witness a masterful magic show by Lyney and Lynette as well as an ongoing trial.” You’ll also be able to explore and even engage in battles underwater in Fontaine. You can check out the overview trailer for Genshin Impact 4.0, below.
Of course, the most exciting part of any update for many fans are the new lineup of characters, with 4.0 offering up the 5-star Lyney and 4-star Lynette and Freminet. Here’s a quick rundown on them…
- Lyney is a 5-star Pyro bow-wielder. His Elemental Skill unleashes a barrage of fireworks, while his Elemental Burst turns him into a “Grim-Malkin Cat” that increases his movement speed and allows him to do Pyro damage to anything he bumps into.
- Lynette is a 4-star Anemo sword-wielder. Her Elemental Skill is a sword thrust that can restore her HP, and her Elemental Burst will summon a “Bogglecat Box” that attracts enemy aggro while dealing damage.
- Finally, Freminet is a 4-star Cryo claymore-wielder. His Elemental Skill causes him to enter the special state “Pers Time” that allows him to inflict Shatter and other powerful attacks. His Elemental Burst will allow him to deal Cryo AoE damage and further buff his Elemental Skill.
Lyney and Lynette will be available to unlock via Genshin Impact’s gacha system right away when 4.0 drops, while Freminet will debut a bit later. As usual, HoYoverse also teases a number of other characters who will arrive with 4.0 updates. We see Furina (the Hydro Archon), Neuvillette (the judge guy with the long hair), Navia (the fancy-looking lady with the hat and the long blonde hair), and Clorinde (the girl with the sword in the captain’s uniform).
Interestingly, HoYoverse is also promising some improvements to the PlayStation versions of the game, including Global Illumination, faster loading, and gyroscopic aiming.
Genshin Impact 4.0 launches on PC, PS4, PS5, and mobile devices on August 16.
