Genshin Impact 2.1 is nearing its end, and as of writing, we’re just a day from Kokomi Sangonomiya’s banner. Raiden Shogun’s banner,the highest grossing for Mihoyo ever, is about to make a thunderous exit, and this is your last chance to obtain her today.

That aside, Genshin Impact’s 2.0 and 2.1 updates were quite an adventure. It provided an all-new location with five explorable islands and a sixth one coming in 2.2. Inazuma delivered a plethora of new experiences and more exciting plot points, making it hard to believe that the game is free. With that said, let’s take a look at some of the highlights:

(Warning, spoilers ahead!!!)

Inazuman perilous landscape

Inazuma is, of course, inspired by the geography, landscape, and architecture of feudal Japan. The moment you step into Narukami island, you’ll be treated to Japanese-style buildings, blooming sakura trees, and two distant and majestic sights: the Narukami Shrine and Inazuma City, where the Tenshukaku (or the home of the Raiden Shogun) sits.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the high verticality - Inazuma is full of hills and towering peaks, which is the same throughout the archipelago. They are more easily traversable than those in Liyue, thanks to the electrograna scattered across the archipelago. Regardless, having someone like Venti or Kazuha makes things a lot easier, especially when you’re trying to gather all the electroculi.

Sure, Inazuma is a picturesque destination, but beneath the beauty lies a perilous landscape. Areas throughout the region are littered with kairagi and ronin, far stronger than the comically weak hilichurls. You’d also have to contend with Tatarasuna and Musuojin Gorge, both spewing high amounts of electro energy, in Kannazuka and Yashiori Island, respectively. There’s also the massive snake’s head in Yashiori, as well as the uninhabited Seirai Island, an area affected by a perpetual storm. Once you head over to Watatsumi Island, you’ll be in awe at its beauty and colors that pop the eye, making it stand out from the rest of fellow isles.

Ayaka, Yoimiya, and the supporting characters

The updates first brought us a pair of lovable characters with totally contrasting personalities and elements.

First is Ayaka, an elegant lady and cryo element user, known for her grace, elegance, and poise. She’s also a deadly swordswoman and currently one of the best DPS characters in the game. Meanwhile, the second is Yoimiya, a bow user with a boisterous and chatty personality that lights up the entire room like a firework. This isn’t a surprise because, hey, her family makes fireworks!

Apart from the two, there’s also Sayu, the sleepy anemo ninja, Gorou, a general in the resistance. Finally, Thoma, a pyro polearm user, is the final character, is probably one of the most essential characters in the story arc who can easily be classified as the best bro.

The Raiden Shogun

Kokomi Sangonomiya