When Genshin Impact launched in September 2020, the world was reeling from the early waves of a global pandemic that had many of us hunkered down at home. The timing was serendipitous for the then-small studio, MiHoYo, as their enchanting open-world adventure arrived just when players were craving a reprieve from their confined realities.
As the expansive realm of Teyvat unfurled before them, gamers found an immersive escape that offered not just adventure, but a breath of fresh air in a world otherwise marked by uncertainty.
Upon its debut, Genshin Impact whisked players away to Mondstadt, a city-state bathed in the breeze and inspired by European medieval charm, and Liyue, a land echoing the grandeur of ancient China. This marked the beginning of an epic journey across Teyvat.
As time went on, MiHoYo continued to enrich this expansive world, introducing new regions, characters, and plotlines that kept the adventure both captivating and dynamic.
A standout moment in this evolving saga was the arrival of Inazuma with version 2.0 – a personal turning point for me as I dove into Genshin Impact alongside my other gaming pursuits.
FEUDAL FANTASIES
Drawing heavy inspiration from feudal Japan, version 2.0 of Genshin Impact transported players to a world adorned with cherry blossoms and majestic pagodas, while delving into a poignant narrative focused on the Raiden Shogun – a deity wrestling with the burdens of immortality and tradition in an ever-evolving landscape.
The game’s rich storytelling and exploration were further enriched in version 3.0 with the introduction of Sumeru, which not only brought a fresh dynamic with the long-awaited Dendro element but also redefined combat with new strategic layers.
Version 4.0 expanded the horizon even further with Fontaine, a region that echoes the grandeur of European architectural splendour and its artistic revolution. This water-themed territory introduced innovative underwater mechanics and captivating mystery-filled cases, deepening the lore of Teyvat.
As the game has evolved, so has its diverse roster of characters, each with their own intricate personalities and backstories, woven into both the main narrative and intriguing side quests. This is complemented by a superb soundtrack, meticulously crafted to enhance the atmosphere of each region.
In 2024, the saga continues with version 5.0 and the release of Natlan, a land of fire that pushes the boundaries of exploration to the west, introducing new mechanics and characters that continue to enrich the world of Teyvat.
A FRESH TAKE
While MiHoYo has steadily refined Genshin Impact since its debut, recent updates have underscored a trend towards encouraging players to engage with new content and characters, often with an added push towards in-game purchases.
Each new region introduces its own set of mechanics – like the electrograna puzzles in Inazuma, the Arkhe alignment of Pneuma and Ousia in Fontaine, and the Phlogiston and Saurian Indwelling features in Natlan.
These additions bring fresh complexity, designed to captivate players and entice them to explore new areas. Yet, as the game evolves, some earlier mechanics, such as the electrograna, seem to fade into obscurity, offering little more than a touch of nostalgia for past updates.
The challenge deepens with the fact that these mechanics are often tied to specific regions and are most effectively used by particular characters, typically high-star ones available through the gacha system.
This system, central to the game’s free-to-play model, can tempt players to spend money, particularly with limited-time characters like Fontaine’s Furina or Natlan’s Mualani, who offer special abilities that simplify tasks such as navigating waterways or scaling mountains.
This “fear of missing out” can lead to substantial spending, especially for those susceptible to the allure of new content. Recognising that these characters, while convenient, are not crucial to enjoying or progressing through the game can help manage the financial impact.
In contrast to the gacha-driven mechanics, the recent addition of Genius Invokation TCG – a trading card game set within the world of Teyvat – offers a refreshing and permanent diversion. It stands apart from the fleeting, spend-oriented nature of the main game, providing a more straightforward and enjoyable alternative for players seeking a break from the gacha grind.
ENDLESS ADVENTURE
Despite its genre, Genius Invokation TCG stands out as a game that can be thoroughly enjoyed without spending any real money. All cards can be earned using in-game currency or unlocked simply by playing, offering a fair and accessible experience to all.
The game remains fresh and exciting thanks to regular balance patches and updates, keeping players engaged. Similar to popular trading card games like Gwent in The Witcher 3, Genius Invokation keeps its audience entertained and returning for more.
Another exciting addition is the new end-game mode, Imaginarium Theater. This mode pushes players to expand their roster of characters, requiring at least eight fully developed characters equipped with weapons and artefacts. For those seeking an even greater challenge, the higher difficulty levels demand up to 26 well-rounded characters.
At its core, Genshin Impact offers a rich, immersive experience. Its world is vast and meticulously designed, brimming with unforgettable characters, intricate lore, and engaging gameplay. From the tranquil meadows of Mondstadt to the fiery depths of Natlan, the ever-expanding realm of Teyvat is a testament to MiHoYo’s remarkable craftsmanship and commitment to storytelling.
For new players, the game offers a wealth of content to dive into. With some mindfulness around potential pitfalls, Genshin Impact can remain a truly captivating and rewarding experience. – Daniel Lim
