Genshin Impact 7.1: A Rekviem for the Underworld Launches September 23

miHoYo will launch Genshin Impact Version 7.1, titled "A Rekviem for the Underworld," on September 23, the developer announced. The update pushes the ongoing story into Snezhnaya's deepening crisis while offering players a return to a long-absent festival. It is a dual-track update of high-stakes political maneuvering and carnival mini-games.

According to the studio, the main story shifts to Snezhnaya, where the nation is drawing up a new plan to stand against the Heavenly Principles.

What is changing in 7.1

In Version 7.1’s Archon Quest, players will finally come face-to-face with the Tsaritsa and uncover the true strategy behind her years-long effort to collect the Gnoses. The crisis continues to deepen as Ronova, the Ruler of Death, uses her authority to severely hinder Snezhnaya's progress, bringing an inevitable showdown closer. To add to the geopolitical instability, the arrival of Rhinedottir, the Ruler of Life, introduces further uncertainty to the situation.

On the playable side of the update, two new 5-star characters, Vesna and Vodyanitsa, join the roster during the first phase of Event Wishes. Both characters are designed to enhance Stellar Swirl reactions. The second phase of the update will feature the return of Skirk and Escoffier.

The details

• Release date: September 23
• New 5-star characters: Vesna, Vodyanitsa (Phase 1)
• Returning Event Wishes: Skirk, Escoffier (Phase 2)
• Platforms: PlayStation 5, PC (client/Epic Games Store), iOS, Android

Why it matters

Outside of the immediate threat of Snezhnaya's collapse, players are headed back to Liyue. The Moonchase Festival returns to the region after five years, transforming Yilong Wharf for the celebrations. Beneath the festive decorations lies an ancient mystery that even Zhongli and Zibai have yet to unravel. The festival introduces three new mini-games inspired by Liyue thaumaturges, with rewards that include a new 4-star Sword.

For players seeking distraction elsewhere, Snezhnaya hosts a seasonal snowball event featuring local children and unusual foes. Meanwhile, the tournament prediction event in Natlan allows players to guess the results for 16 competing teams over several days. Version 7.1 also introduces new updates to Miliastra Wonderland.

With the storyline finally confronting long-teased figures like the Tsaritsa, Version 7.1 marks the continuation of narrative developments for a game known for its detailed plot progression. Players face various challenges, depending on whether they engage with world-saving missions or local festivities.