HoYoverse announces Genshin Impact will end on PlayStation 4 on April 8, 2026, with the game’s removal from the PlayStation Store starting September 10, 2025. The decision, driven by hardware limitations and the app’s growing size, marks the end of support for the console launched in 2013. Meanwhile, the PlayStation 5 version will remain unaffected, and requirements for mobile and PC versions will increase with the New Moon Song update. Players can transfer their accounts to other platforms, such as PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Android, and iOS, without losing progress. The change reflects the game’s technical evolution, demanding more processing power and memory beyond the PS4’s capabilities.
The news sparked varied reactions among fans, especially those still using the PS4. HoYoverse assured a smooth transition, with in-game notifications starting December 17, 2025, guiding players to link their accounts to continue their journey in Teyvat.
- PS4 shutdown stages:
- September 10, 2025: Game removed from PlayStation Store.
- February 25, 2026: In-game purchases discontinued.
- April 8, 2026: Full support ends, preventing login.
Technical reasons for discontinuation
HoYoverse justified ending PS4 support due to the console’s technical limitations. Launched in 2013, the PlayStation 4 struggles to meet Genshin Impact’s demands, which have grown in size and complexity since its 2020 debut. The New Moon Song update, set for 2026, will introduce new features and areas like Snezhnaya, requiring greater processing power and memory. These changes make maintaining the game on older hardware unfeasible, as it cannot support the optimizations needed for the full experience.
The app’s size has also been a persistent challenge. With frequent updates and new content, such as regions, characters, and mechanics, the game has exceeded the PS4’s storage and performance limits. HoYoverse emphasized that the decision ensures quality on modern platforms like PS5, PC, and mobile devices.
Impact on PS4 players
The PS4 community reacted with surprise and frustration to the news. Many still use the console due to its affordability and large install base. For these players, discontinuation means migrating to another device, which may involve additional costs, particularly for those planning to buy a PS5. HoYoverse stressed that player progress will be preserved if accounts are linked to a compatible platform before the final deadline.
Starting December 17, 2025, in-game notifications will guide users on the migration process. Players can access the Paimon Menu, under settings, to link their PlayStation Network accounts to a HoYoverse account, ensuring seamless continuation on other platforms.
- How to transfer your account:
- Access the Paimon Menu in-game.
- Go to Settings > Account > User Center.
- Link your PSN account to a HoYoverse account using email or QR code.
- Log in on the new platform with the linked account.
- Verify all progress, including purchased items, has transferred.
New requirements for mobile and PC
Alongside the PS4 discontinuation, HoYoverse announced that Genshin Impact will raise minimum requirements for mobile and PC with the New Moon Song update. This reflects the game’s growing complexity, incorporating enhanced graphics, new mechanics, and detailed areas. For Android, the recommended specs include a Snapdragon 855, Dimensity 1000, or Kirin 980 processor, with at least 6 GB of RAM and Android 12.0 or higher. On iOS, the game will require an iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPad Mini (5th generation), or newer models with iOS 13.0 or above.
These changes aim to optimize the experience on platforms capable of handling the game’s technical demands. HoYoverse advises players to check their device specs and, if needed, upgrade to compatible models before the update rolls out.
Detailed shutdown timeline
The Genshin Impact PS4 discontinuation will occur gradually in three clear stages, giving players time to adapt. The first stage, on September 10, 2025, will remove the game from the PlayStation Store, though those with it in their library can reinstall it until the final shutdown. The second stage, on February 25, 2026, will disable all in-game purchases, including packs and microtransactions. Finally, on April 8, 2026, support will fully end, preventing any access to the game on PS4.
- Key dates in the process:
- September 10, 2025: Game removed from PlayStation Store.
- December 17, 2025: Migration notifications begin.
- February 25, 2026: In-game purchases end.
- April 8, 2026: Full support termination on PS4.
Future of Genshin Impact on other platforms
While the PS4 version ends, Genshin Impact will continue receiving regular updates on other platforms. The PS5 version offers enhanced graphics, faster load times, and support for DualSense features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The game is also available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, Android, and iOS, with crossplay and cross-save across all platforms, ensuring uninterrupted adventures.
HoYoverse plans to launch Snezhnaya, Teyvat’s final major nation, overseen by the Cryo Archon, as part of the New Moon Song update. This expansion will bring new characters, quests, and mechanics, solidifying Genshin Impact as a leading action RPG. The company reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the game fresh with seasonal events and new content.
Community reactions and alternatives
The PS4 support termination sparked heated discussions on social media, with players expressing both disappointment and understanding. Some praised the PS4’s longevity, supporting the game for over five years, while others criticized the need to invest in a new console. HoYoverse addressed concerns, ensuring that unclaimed purchased items on PS4 can be accessed on PS5 post-shutdown, provided migration is completed correctly.
For players without a PS5, the PC and mobile versions are viable alternatives. The PC version offers flexibility for various hardware setups, while the mobile version remains accessible for on-the-go gaming.
- Platforms available post-shutdown:
- PlayStation 5: Continued support with enhanced graphics.
- PC: Updated requirements but widely accessible.
- Xbox Series X|S: Available since November 2024.
- Android and iOS: New requirements starting in 2026.
Genshin Impact’s success story
Since its September 2020 launch, Genshin Impact has built a global fanbase with its open world, dynamic combat, and anime-inspired visuals. The action RPG, blending gacha mechanics, has been praised for its engaging story and frequent updates. New regions like Natlan and characters like Kachina, Kinich, and Mualani keep the community active, despite critiques of its monetization model.
The PS4 discontinuation reflects the game’s evolution, demanding more resources to support its ambitions. HoYoverse reiterated its commitment to players, ensuring a smooth transition and continued expansion of Teyvat’s universe.