Genshin Impact released their big version 1.5 “Beneath the Light of Jadeite” update which is now available to download on PC, mobile phones, PS4, and PS5. Wait, PS5?? That’s right – the latest update brings the popular open world game to Sony’s newest console with a host of technical improvements. Let’s take a look at what’s in store for players!
Native PlayStation 5 Application
Players lucky enough to be able to experience the Traveler’s adventures on a PlayStation 5 thus far know that the PS4 version has some basic improvements when played on a PS5. Loading times are shorter and the frame rate is a bit smoother. That being said, the PS4 version isn’t exactly known for its performance, so it’s a rather low bar.
The native PS5 version of Genshin Impact features 4K resolution with enhanced textures, even shorter loading times, adaptive trigger functionality, and a silky-smooth frame rate. The game’s technical director explains the process a bit more in-depth in this video. Transferring data from the PS4 version is a cinch so long as you’re using the same PlayStation Network ID. You’ll even get a new set of trophies!
Gentry of Hermitage Character Event Wish
Say farewell to Childe and his “Farewell to Snezhnaya” event wish because the 1.5 patch arrives with an updated version of the Zhongli-focused event wish. The “Gentry of Hermitage” Character Event Wish grants players another chance to obtain Zhongli, the powerful five-star Geo warrior. Act II of Zhongli’s story quest is also available with the update.
In perhaps more exciting news, a new four-star character is introduced as part of the Gentry of Hermitage event. Yanfei is a Liyue-based legal advisor who uses a catalyst weapon and some impressive Pyro abilities to incinerate her foes. Zhongli, Yanfei, Diona, and Noelle all have boosted drop rates for the duration of the event.
Epitome Invocation Weapon Event Wish
Got all the characters you need and have primogens to burn? Why not try for some five-star weapons with the Epitome Invocation Weapon Event Wish? The two highlighted five-star weapons are the Summit Shaper short sword and Memory of Dust catalyst. Four-star weapons such as the Lithic Spear also have boosted drop rates as part of the event.
More Hangout Events
Hangout events – quests specific to four-star characters – made a splash when they were added into the game with the 1.4 update. The initial cluster of events focused on Barbara, Noelle, Chongyun, and Bennett. Round two adds a second scenario for Noelle as well as an event allowing the Traveler to hang out with Diona for the first time.
Both characters’ hangout events require Adventure Rank 26 and completion of Act III of the Archon Quest. Noelle’s second hangout event has a surprisingly rigid prerequisite, requiring all endings from her first hangout event to be unlocked. Better get going with those daily commissions so you can earn more quest keys!
A New Cryo Boss
Version 1.5 introduces a new boss in the Cryo Hypostasis. Sure, it’s a glorified Rubik’s Cube with icy powers, but if you’re anything like me, you’re probably sick to death of fighting Cryo Regisvines over and over for Cryo materials. As you would expect the Cryo Hypostasis makes its home near the eternally chilly Dragonspine mountain.
A Housing System
Completion of the “A Teapot to Call Home” quest earns your Traveler the serenitea pot. That might not sound like anything special, but those who have played through the Liyue story quests know that Madame Ping’s teapots are actually sub-space gateways. The serenitea pot is no exception, and acts as something of a house for the Traveler. You can even create furnishings to place inside of it!
More to Come!
There are plenty of more minor changes as well, such as new Battle Pass missions and incentives for fighting some of the tougher bosses. There is also a new character to look forward to in the coming weeks with Eula, a Cryo wielder. While this update doesn’t introduce a new continent (maybe 1.6 will? Please?), it provides plenty of content to keep players invested in the world of Teyvat.
Keep an eye out here for more Genshin Impact character spotlights, and if you’re new to the game, be sure to check out our Beginner’s Guide!