Quick Facts
- Update: Version 7.0
- Release Date: August 12, 2026
- Platform: PlayStation 5
- Key Features: New Snezhnaya region, third-person shooting mechanics, and a railway system base of operations.
HoYoverse has confirmed that the next major update for Genshin Impact, version 7.0, will launch on August 12, 2026. This milestone release finally brings players to Snezhnaya, the seventh nation of Teyvat and the home of the Fatui.
New Region and Gameplay Mechanics
Set in an industrial nation currently suffering from a severe energy crisis caused by a persistent blizzard, Snezhnaya introduces several new gameplay elements. Most notably, the update adds third-person shooting mechanics, complete with various weapons and attachments. These mechanics are expected to be integrated into the game's user-generated content hub, the Miliastra Wonderland, in future patches.
Exploration in the new region will also feature a functional railway system, which serves as a mobile base of operations for the player. Additionally, limited-time events will include a train racing minigame, where players can earn the character Diona by completing all associated tasks.
Playable Characters
Two new playable units will debut with the version 7.0 update:
- Odette: A 5-star assassin ballerina who incorporates dance-based combat moves.
- Alyosha: A 4-star hunter character, obtainable for free by progressing through the main questline.
While the update is designed for existing players to continue the overarching narrative, HoYoverse has confirmed that newcomers will have the option to skip directly to the new content. However, developers advise that doing so will result in a loss of significant narrative context established over the game's previous six years of support.