The world of Teyvat is about to expand once again as HoYoverse prepares to launch the highly anticipated Genshin Impact version 5.4 update. Following the dramatic events of the previous patch, this update promises to deliver fresh content that will further enrich the ever-expanding universe of this beloved action RPG. From new regions to explore, characters to collect, and gameplay systems to master, version 5.4 represents another significant milestone in Genshin Impact’s evolving journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down exactly when players across the globe can dive into the new content, what exciting features await, and how this update fits into the broader narrative of Teyvat’s unfolding story.

Global Release Schedule: When Can You Play?

HoYoverse maintains its tradition of synchronized global releases, meaning that Genshin Impact 5.4 will be available simultaneously worldwide. However, due to time zone differences, the actual clock time will vary depending on your location. The official maintenance period is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, May 7, 2025, at 06:00 (UTC+8) and is expected to last approximately 5 hours.

Release Times by Region

Here’s when you can expect to access version 5.4 in major time zones:

• North America (Pacific Time): Monday, May 6, 2025 – 7:00 PM PDT
• North America (Eastern Time): Monday, May 6, 2025 – 10:00 PM EDT
• Europe (Central European Time): Tuesday, May 7, 2025 – 4:00 AM CEST
• United Kingdom (British Summer Time): Tuesday, May 7, 2025 – 3:00 AM BST
• Asia (Japan Standard Time): Tuesday, May 7, 2025 – 11:00 AM JST
• Australia (Eastern Australian Time): Tuesday, May 7, 2025 – 12:00 PM AEST
• India (Indian Standard Time): Tuesday, May 7, 2025 – 7:30 AM IST

The Genshin Impact Official Website will provide live updates should there be any changes to the maintenance schedule. As veteran players know, maintenance sometimes concludes earlier than announced, so it’s worth checking the game periodically near the end of the expected window.

Pre-Installation Option

To minimize wait time on release day, HoYoverse has once again provided a pre-installation option that will be available starting Sunday, May 4, 2025. This feature allows players to download most of the update data in advance, significantly reducing download time when the servers go live.

• Mobile: Access pre-installation via the Settings menu
• PC: The launcher will automatically offer the pre-installation option
• PlayStation: Pre-load will be available approximately 48 hours before release

Tip: With version 5.4 approaching the 35GB mark on PC and 19GB on mobile platforms, pre-installation is highly recommended, especially for players with slower internet connections.

Version Compensation and Maintenance Rewards

As with previous updates, players can expect maintenance compensation in the form of Primogems. The standard compensation package includes:

• 300 Primogems for scheduled maintenance (60 Primogems per hour of maintenance)
• 300 Primogems for bug fixes and update compensation
• Additional compensation for any extended maintenance periods

These Primogems will be delivered directly to your in-game mail and must be claimed within 30 days. Remember that you need to have reached Adventure Rank 5 or above to receive this compensation.

New Region Expansion: The Northern Reaches of Natlan

Version 5.4 continues the gradual unveiling of the Pyro nation of Natlan, with this update focusing on the previously inaccessible northern territories.

The Smoldering Highlands

This new sub-region introduces The Smoldering Highlands, a volcanic mountain range characterized by dramatic terrain, sulfur pools, and ancient tribal settlements carved directly into the rock faces. Unlike the tropical southern areas of Natlan released previously, the Highlands present a harsher, more primal landscape that reflects the raw elemental power of Pyro.

“With the Smoldering Highlands, we wanted to showcase a different aspect of Natlan’s relationship with fire,” explains HoYoverse’s lead environmental designer in a recent developer livestream. “While southern Natlan celebrates fire’s creative aspects through festivals and rituals, the north embodies fire’s transformative power—how it reshapes and forges both land and people.”

Key locations include:

• Cinder Spire: A massive volcanic peak housing the reclusive Ash Walkers tribe
• Obsidian Vale: A sprawling field of black glass formed from ancient lava flows
• Ember Caverns: An extensive underground network heated by geothermal activity
• Forge of the Ancestors: A sacred site where legendary weapons are still crafted using traditional methods

The new area is recommended for players at Adventure Rank 45+ and will feature a difficulty scaling system similar to that introduced in version 5.2.

New Characters: Introducing New Faces to Your Roster

Version 5.4 adds two new playable characters to Genshin Impact’s ever-growing roster, alongside one returning fan-favorite in the second phase of banners.

5-Star Character: Xiuhcoatl (Phase 1)

The headline character of this update is Xiuhcoatl, a 5-star Pyro Polearm wielder who serves as the guardian of the Smoldering Highlands and keeper of ancient Natlan forging techniques.

• Vision: Pyro
• Weapon: Polearm
• Rarity: 5-star
• Title: “Serpent of Flame”

Xiuhcoatl’s kit revolves around a unique Heat Gauge mechanism that builds as she performs normal attacks. Once maximized, her attacks become infused with Pyro and gain additional properties based on the active party’s elemental composition. Her Elemental Burst, “Serpent’s Coil,” transforms her polearm into a fiery serpent that winds around enemies, dealing continuous Pyro damage while providing resistance to interruption.

“Xiuhcoatl represents a new direction for Pyro DPS characters,” notes theory-crafter and content creator SunsettiaGaming. “Her ability to adapt her damage output based on team composition introduces really interesting team-building possibilities, especially for players looking to experiment beyond traditional Vaporize and Melt reactions.”

4-Star Character: Tlalli (Phase 1)

Joining Xiuhcoatl on the first banner is Tlalli, a 4-star Geo Bow user who specializes in terrain manipulation and defensive positioning.

• Vision: Geo
• Weapon: Bow
• Rarity: 4-star
• Title: “Earth Etcher”

Tlalli’s Elemental Skill, “Stone Canvas,” allows players to create temporary Geo constructs that can be strategically positioned to block enemy attacks or create elevated shooting positions. Her burst, “Terra Firma,” converts a large area to solid ground, negating environmental effects and providing a substantial Geo damage bonus to all party members standing within the zone.

Returning Character: Raiden Shogun (Phase 2)

The second half of version 5.4 features the return of the Raiden Shogun, marking her fourth banner appearance since her initial release. This rerun coincides with a new story quest chapter that explores the ongoing diplomatic relations between Inazuma and Natlan.

Players can view the complete banner schedule on the Genshin Impact Event Wish page, which is updated as soon as official information becomes available.

New Weapons and Equipment

Version 5.4 introduces a new 5-star polearm designed to complement Xiuhcoatl’s kit, along with additions to the 4-star weapon pool.

“Obsidian Fang” (5-Star Polearm)

This visually striking weapon features a blade of polished volcanic glass wrapped with smoldering leather bindings. Its stats and passive ability make it particularly effective for Pyro polearm users:

• Base ATK: 48/674 (Level 1/90)
• Secondary Stat: CRIT Rate (8%/36.8% at Level 1/90)
• Passive: “Volcanic Temperament” – Increases ATK by 16/20/24/28/32% (refinement dependent). When the wielder causes a Pyro-related elemental reaction, they gain a stack of Magma Essence for 10 seconds, max 3 stacks. Each stack increases Elemental Mastery by 40/50/60/70/80 (refinement dependent).

New 4-Star Weapons

The update also adds two new 4-star weapons to the general pool:

• “Stonecaller’s Bow” – A Geo-themed bow with a Defense secondary stat
• “Ember Claymore” – A Pyro-themed claymore with an Energy Recharge secondary stat

Additionally, a free 4-star catalyst, “Ritual Brazier,” will be obtainable through the main event of version 5.4, featuring a unique passive that boosts Elemental Skill damage.

Major Events and Limited-Time Content

As with every update, version 5.4 brings a variety of events offering primogems, materials, and unique experiences.

Main Event: “Forge of Legends”

The flagship event of this update centers around Natlan’s legendary smithing traditions. Players will participate in various blacksmithing challenges that test their reflexes and timing as they create weapons using traditional Natlan techniques.

The event consists of four stages:

1. Material Gathering – Collect rare ores and materials from specific locations
2. Forge Mastery – Rhythm-based minigame simulating the forging process
3. Tempering Trials – Combat challenges using newly forged weapons
4. Master Craftsmanship – Create a legendary weapon through a multi-step process

Rewards include:

• Up to 1000 Primogems
• The 4-star catalyst “Ritual Brazier”
• Weapon enhancement materials
• A new namecard: “Forge Master”
• Mora and character EXP materials

Secondary Events

In addition to the main event, version 5.4 features several smaller events:

• “Blazing Rhythms” – A music-based event featuring traditional Natlan instruments
• “Spiritfire Challenges” – Combat trials with special rules focused on elemental mastery
• “Teapot Treasures” – New furniture blueprints for your Serenitea Pot inspired by Natlan architecture
• “Expeditionary Photography” – Document the wildlife and landscapes of the Smoldering Highlands

Each secondary event offers its own reward track, with a combined total of approximately 1,200 additional Primogems available throughout the update period.

New Story Content and Archon Quest

Version 5.4 continues the Natlan storyline with a new Archon Quest chapter titled “Act III: Embers of Revolution.”

Archon Quest Continuation

This chapter delves deeper into the internal conflicts within Natlan and the growing tension between traditionalists who worship the Pyro Archon and reformists who seek a new direction for the nation. Players will work alongside Xiuhcoatl to investigate mysterious events occurring within the Smoldering Highlands that appear to be exacerbating these tensions.

“This act represents a turning point in the Natlan storyline,” hints narrative director Liu Wei. “Players will discover that the conflicts they’ve been witnessing have roots far deeper than initially apparent, with connections to events that predate even the Archon War.”

New World Quests

A substantial number of world quests will become available in the new region, including:

• A multi-part questline exploring the history of the Ash Walkers tribe
• Individual character stories for both Xiuhcoatl and Tlalli
• Environmental puzzles related to ancient forging techniques
• Hidden quests triggered by discovering specific locations

These world quests are expected to provide approximately 10-15 hours of additional gameplay beyond the main Archon Quest chapter.

System Updates and Quality of Life Improvements

Version 5.4 introduces several requested improvements to Genshin Impact’s core systems, enhancing the overall player experience.

Inventory Management Enhancements

After extensive community feedback, HoYoverse is implementing improved inventory management features:

• Batch conversion for character level-up materials
• Search filters for artifacts based on substats
• Lock/unlock multiple artifacts simultaneously
• Equipment loadouts that can be saved and quickly swapped

Combat Camera Adjustments

The update addresses longstanding issues with the combat camera system:

• New camera distance options for both exploration and combat
• Target lock improvements for bow and catalyst users
• Vertical camera sensitivity adjustment options

Co-Op Enhancements

The co-op experience receives meaningful updates:

• Ready check system before domains and challenges
• Expanded emote wheel with more communication options
• Co-op specific achievements with primogem rewards

Players can find complete documentation of these system changes in the official patch notes once they’re released.

Balance Changes and Character Adjustments

Version 5.4 implements several balance adjustments, with a particular focus on older characters to maintain their viability in the evolving meta.

Character Buffs

Several launch-era characters receive attention in this update:

• Diluc receives adjustments to his Elemental Skill cooldown and damage scaling
• Qiqi’s healing now provides additional team utility through a new energy generation effect
• Keqing gains improved Electro application and slightly increased attack multipliers

Element System Adjustments

The Burning reaction undergoes further refinement, with improved scaling and duration to make it more viable in combat situations. Additionally, the Crystallize reaction receives quality-of-life improvements with shield strength now scaling more effectively with Elemental Mastery.

Technical Improvements and Performance Optimization

Version 5.4 continues HoYoverse’s commitment to technical excellence with several behind-the-scenes improvements.

Graphics and Visual Enhancements

Players on high-end devices will notice:

• Enhanced volumetric fog rendering in the new region
• Improved shadow quality and distance
• More detailed particle effects for Pyro reactions
• HDR support for compatible PC configurations

Performance Optimizations

For players on lower-end devices:

• Reduced memory usage during combat sequences
• Optimized asset loading to decrease stuttering
• New adaptive resolution options for mobile devices
• Battery saving mode enhancements for extended play sessions

According to the development team, these optimizations should result in a 5-8% performance improvement on most supported devices, with mobile players experiencing the most noticeable benefits.

The Road Ahead: What Comes After 5.4

While HoYoverse maintains their policy of not officially confirming content beyond the immediate update, reliable leaks and the established pattern of development provide some insight into what players might expect in the months following version 5.4.

Version 5.5 Projections

Based on the current six-week update cycle, version 5.5 should arrive in mid-June 2025. Current speculation among the community suggests:

• The conclusion of the Natlan Archon Quest
• Introduction of the Natlan weekly boss
• The debut of the Pyro Archon as a playable character

Looking Further: The Road to Version 6.0

With Natlan’s story approaching its climax, attention is beginning to turn toward Snezhnaya, the anticipated final nation of the Teyvat chapter. Hints scattered throughout recent updates suggest that the transition to this Cryo nation may begin as early as version 5.6, with a full launch possible in version 6.0 near the end of 2025.

The Genshin Impact Official YouTube Channel periodically releases developer discussion videos that sometimes contain subtle hints about future content directions.

Community Reactions and Expectations

The announcement of version 5.4’s contents has generated significant discussion within the Genshin Impact community, with reactions generally trending positive.

Player Excitement

Community polling conducted by several large Genshin content creators indicates particular enthusiasm for:

• The northern Natlan expansion, with 78% of surveyed players rating it their most anticipated feature
• Xiuhcoatl’s unique kit, which 64% of respondents plan to wish for
• The blacksmithing event, which 71% are looking forward to experiencing

Concerns and Discussions

Not all reaction has been uniformly positive, with some discussion focusing on:

• Questions about the pacing of the Natlan storyline
• Debate over whether the character balance changes go far enough
• Discussion about the increasing storage requirements with each update

These community conversations can be followed in depth on the Genshin Impact Official Forum where developers occasionally respond to player feedback.

Preparation Guide: Getting Ready for 5.4

With version 5.4 rapidly approaching, here are some steps players can take to prepare for a smooth transition:

Resource Management

• Save Fragile Resin for farming new domains and boss materials
• Complete Battle Pass objectives before the current period ends
• Stock up on Enhancement Ores for new weapons
• Complete weekly reputation tasks before the reset

Character Materials

For players planning to obtain Xiuhcoatl or Tlalli:

• Farm Pyro Regisvine materials for Xiuhcoatl
• Collect Geo Hypostasis materials for Tlalli
• Gather local Natlan specialties (particularly Smoldering Seeds and Volcanic Glass)
• Save Teachings of Fortitude talent books

Clear Current Content

• Complete any unfinished Archon Quests to avoid story prerequisites
• Finish time-limited events in version 5.3
• Use any fragile currency that doesn’t carry over between versions

Conclusion: The Evolving World of Teyvat

Version 5.4 represents another significant step in Genshin Impact’s ongoing evolution, expanding both the world of Teyvat and the gameplay systems that bring it to life. As HoYoverse continues to refine their craft, each update not only adds new content but enhances the foundation of what has become one of gaming’s most beloved ongoing experiences.

The Smoldering Highlands expansion promises to showcase yet another facet of the Pyro nation’s rich cultural tapestry, while new characters, weapons, and events provide fresh experiences for both veteran players and newcomers alike. With the narrative steadily progressing toward what appears to be a climactic confrontation in Natlan, version 5.4 stands as an essential chapter in Genshin Impact’s unfolding story.

As May 7th approaches, travelers would be wise to complete their current adventures, manage their resources wisely, and prepare for another exciting chapter in their journey through the world of Teyvat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will my progress carry over to version 5.4?

Yes, all player progress, including characters, weapons, artifacts, and story completion will carry over seamlessly to version 5.4. The update only adds new content and makes system adjustments without affecting your existing progress.

2. What Adventure Rank do I need to access the new Natlan region in 5.4?

Access to the Smoldering Highlands will require completion of the previous Natlan Archon Quest chapters and an Adventure Rank of 45 or higher. Players below this rank will need to advance their Adventure Rank before accessing the new content.

3. How many primogems can I expect to earn from version 5.4 content?

Based on previous updates of similar size, players who complete all available content (including events, quests, exploration, and achievements) can expect to earn approximately 7,000-9,000 primogems throughout the duration of version 5.4. This estimate includes maintenance compensation, event rewards, exploration primogems, and quest completion bonuses.

4. Will there be any changes to the Spiral Abyss in version 5.4?

Yes, as with every version update, the Spiral Abyss will reset with new blessings and enemy lineups. Version 5.4’s Spiral Abyss is expected to favor Pyro characters and reactions, likely designed to showcase Xiuhcoatl’s capabilities. Floor 11 will reportedly feature a blessing that increases Elemental Skill damage, while Floor 12 may include enemies with high physical resistance.

5. Is it better to pull for Xiuhcoatl or wait for the rumored Pyro Archon in version 5.5?

This depends entirely on your personal preferences and account needs. While Xiuhcoatl appears to be a strong Pyro DPS with unique mechanics, the Pyro Archon (if rumors prove accurate) will likely offer different utility and playstyle. Players with limited primogems might consider waiting for more information about the Pyro Archon’s kit before deciding, while those who enjoy Xiuhcoatl’s design or need a Pyro polearm user may wish to pull during version 5.4.