Genshin Impact 5.3 brings a climax in Natlan and new characters

Stefani Couto
Journalist by training, gamer by passion! I write about games, trivia, and guides to help other players explore this incredible universe.

HoYoverse has revealed details of the highly anticipated Genshin Impact 5.3 update, dubbed Incandescent Ode of Resurrection. Marking the conclusion of the main story in Natlan, the version arrives on January 1, 2025, and will bring new features such as events, new characters, and permanent changes to the game.

Players can expect a thrilling narrative, iconic events like the Lantern Rite, and the debut of three playable characters. Check out what version 5.3 has in store below.

The saga in Natlan comes to an end, and new challenges begin

The main mission of the update, Incandescent Ode of Resurrection, concludes Chapter V of the Natlan storyline. In this phase, the Traveler joins forces with Mavuika, the Pyro Archon, to confront the Abyss. Furthermore, the plot also unveils the Captain's plans in Natlan.

Upon completing the mission, players receive 500 Primogems as a reward. Additionally, a new weekly boss, the Eroded Primal Firelord, will be introduced, expanding the challenges in the game.

This version also includes two new character quests: Sol Invictus Act I, by Mavuika, and Tribal Chronicles: Masters of the Night-Wind, by Citlali. Both offer exclusive materials for character advancement.

New playable characters and banners in Genshin Impact 5.3

The update introduces Mavuika, Citlali, and Lan Yan. The first is a damage dealer with Pyro abilities and unique mechanics, such as summoning divine weapons. Citlali combines Cryo and support abilities, while Lan Yan, a 4-star Liyue character, offers utility with the Anemo element.

In the first phase of the banners, available from January 1st, Mavuika and Citlali share the spotlight. In the second phase, scheduled for January 22nd, the highlights will be Arlecchino and Clorinde, in addition to Lan Yan as a secondary character. Arlecchino, a Pyro user with risk-reward mechanics, and Clorinde, from Fontaine, focused on quick attacks, complete the cast of new characters.

Genshin Impact 5.3
Photo: Courtesy of HoYoverse

Anticipated events and rewards

Among the highlights of the update is the annual Lantern Rite event in Liyue. In it, players will help Hu Tao on a special mission and can participate in various minigames. However, those who complete the event will have access to a free selection of 4-star characters from Liyue, including Lan Yan.

In addition, another new feature is the permanent Repertoire of Myriad Melodies mode, which offers a rhythm game with exclusive soundtracks and the ability to create custom challenges.

Other events include:

  • Emblem of Steadfast Valor: a platform game set in Natlan.
  • On the Trail of Behemoths: a co-op and solo combat event.
  • Shuyu's Baffling Beetle Battle Bowl: Onikabutos contests against monsters from Teyvat.
  • Overflowing Abundance: Double the ascension materials for a limited time.

The update will bring gameplay improvements, such as new modes and two brand-new costumes: one for Hu Tao, available in the store, and another for Xiangling, unlocked during the Lantern Rite. In addition, players will receive an exclusive Wind Glider, 1,600 Primogems, and other commemorative items in their in-game mailboxes.

Version 5.3 also makes the Traveler's Pyro form available, expanding the customization options for the protagonist. While Incandescent Ode of Resurrection concludes the current saga, HoYoverse is already hinting at ambitious plans for the future. Thus, the studio intends to continue expanding Teyvat, bringing new regions, events, and characters in the coming years.