Genshin Impact Update 7.0 releases Snezhnaya on August 12 and ends main arc
HoYoverse announced that Version 7.0 of Genshin Impact, dubbed “Merciless Winter”, will be officially released on August 12, 2026. This update represents a crucial milestone for the RPG’s narrative, as it finally allows players to explore Snezhnaya, the seventh and final nation of Teyvat, beginning the final chapter of the saga.
In addition to significantly expanding the game map, the new version introduces an unprecedented Archon Quest, new characters, renewed exploration systems, an unprecedented elemental reaction and several events with free rewards for players.
New map regions unlock Snezhnaya for players
After years of mentions in the main plot, Snezhnaya will finally be available for exploration.
Located in the far north of Teyvat, the area is characterized by a hostile climate, with frequent snowfalls, and a highly technologically developed civilization.
Upon entering the territory, Travelers board a train that crosses the icy landscapes to Snezhnograd, the nation’s capital and headquarters of the Fatui.
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Outside the city, players will be able to discover glacial plains, snow-covered settlements, secret villages protected by the Ice Creams and ancient beings that inhabit the frozen areas.
HoYoverse revealed that each part of the region will bring its own narratives about the culture, internal conflicts and origins of the nation led by the Tsaritsa.
Main mission receives new chapter and expands the narrative
The update also kicks off Snezhnaya’s new narrative arc. In the upcoming Archon Mission, players will investigate a massive energy crisis caused by a devastating blizzard that threatens the entire region.
The campaign will delve into the political tensions between different factions and bring new revelations about the Fatui, as well as the events taking place behind the scenes.
Those who complete the mission will be able to earn up to 560 Essential Gems as a bonus.
New Eye of Graeae Offers New Tools for Exploration
One of the update’s key features is the Eye of Graeae, a newly introduced tool that players receive at the start of their journey in Snezhnaya. It offers several functionalities, including:
- protection against extreme cold;
- summoning the railway express;
- creation of Glacial Constructs to solve puzzles;
- interaction with other players;
- access to a new third-person shooting mode.
Combat system gains third-person shooter mode
For the first time, Genshin Impact incorporates a firearms-based combat system within a specific game mode.
The new mode includes varied scenarios, three types of weapons, accessories spread across Snezhnaya and challenges that require quick adaptation to situations.
As reported by HoYoverse, the system is a complement to the exploration of the new region and does not replace traditional RPG combat.
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Star Whirlwind adds new elemental reaction to combat
Version 7.0 also expands the element system with the introduction of the Star Whirlwind. This reaction is activated by the combination of the Cryo and Anemo elements, generating a powerful vortex that applies simultaneous damage of both types.
Among its effects are explosions that intensify with the repetition of the reaction, greater jump height during exploration and new ways of interacting with the scenery.
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Upon unlocking the Snezhnaya Statue of the Seven, the Traveler will also master the Cryo element, being able to use all Starlight reactions when in the group.
Odette, Cryo swordsman, is the new five-star character
The most anticipated character in the update is Odette, a five-star Cryo Sword user who is part of the Fatui, under the leadership of Signora.
Although she is recognized in Snezhnaya as a talented ballerina, Odette also acts as a trained assassin. His skill set is focused on the new Starlight reactions.
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Its main features include:
- conversion of Superconductor and Cryo Whirlwind into Stellar versions;
- summoning a Shadow Dancer that deals continuous Cryo damage;
- increased damage from Starlight reactions for the entire team;
- an Ultimate that performs multiple area attacks and intensifies its own elemental reactions.
Alyosha arrives as a free character in the update
Another highlight of the update is Alyosha, a four-star character who uses Electro Lance and fights alongside his dog, Tugarin.
Among its functions are:
- increased Stellar Superconductor damage;
- restore health to nearby allies;
- offensive support for teams that focus on elemental reactions.
HoYoverse has confirmed that Alyosha can be acquired for free by completing the new Archon Quest.
Version 7.0 banner characters revealed
The update will be made available in two stages.
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Availability in the first phase of launch
- Odette (5★ Cryo)
- Alyosha (4★ Electro)
- Return of Arlecchino
What’s new in the second stage of the update
- Return of Flins
- Return of Ineffa
Temporary events grant the character Diona
Several limited-time events will accompany the launch of the new version. Among them are:
- races with the Snezhnaya express;
- shooting challenges;
- special domains;
- missions involving the Geladinhos.
By completing activities, players will be able to obtain various rewards, including Diona for free.
Miliastra Arcanum gets special summer event
The Miliastra Arcanum side content will also receive new features. The event features horror story-inspired adventures throughout the summer and grants a variety of cosmetic rewards, such as a new, exclusive, limited-time headpiece.
Summary of the main new features of Version 7.0
- New region: Snezhnaya
- Story: New chapter of the Archon’s Quest
- Character 5★: Odette (Cryo/Sword)
- Free character: Alyosha (Electro/Spear)
- New mechanic: Eye of Graeae
- New mode: Third-person shooting
- New reaction: Stellar Whirlwind
- New Traveler element: Cryo
- Free event: Diona as a reward
- Release: August 12, 2026
New chapter in Teyvat begins the conclusion of the story
Snezhnaya’s introduction represents one of the most anticipated moments by fans since the launch of Genshin Impact in 2020.
In addition to introducing the last of the seven nations of Teyvat, Version 7.0 begins a new narrative arc that promises to deepen the history of the Fatui, the Tsaritsa and the mysteries surrounding the game world.
With new exploration systems, expanded combat, new characters and free events, “Winter Without Mercy” marks a new phase in the Traveler’s journey on August 12, with simultaneous release for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Android and iOS.
