Genshin Impact Version 2.6 is finally here, and the long-awaited patch will introduce The Chasm as a new explorable region alongside Kamisato Ayato, a new 5-star Hydro character. Genshin Impact's consistent update schedule has given its players plenty of advance notice on major content releases, and Version 2.6 has been a discussion point for weeks thanks to the substantial nature of its inclusions.
Developer miHoYo generally follows a schedule of a new significant version update every six weeks. Genshin Impact Version 2.5, the most recent update prior to the newest release, introduced Yae Miko alongside a new boss fight and other significant changes. While not every version update introduces a significantly new area of the world map, they do tend to bring with them a tonal shift that will dictate the next several weeks of gameplay - and both new and old 5-star characters for players to spend wishes on.
Genshin Impact 2.6 is a massive update to the game's world and lore, as it introduces a sizable new location in The Chasm. The Chasm is Liyue's primary resource for ore mining, but it also contains a vast underground environment that houses new enemies, a new boss, and materials and treasures for any adventurer who plumbs its depths. In Genshin Impact Version 2.6, the Traveler will gain access to The Chasm for the first time, culminating in a meeting with Dainsleif that will shed more light on both the Traveler siblings and the lost nation of Khaenri'ah.
Alongside the huge lore implications of the release of The Chasm, Genshin Impact 2.6 will also feature a new 5-star character in Kamisato Ayato, a Hydro sword user and master of the Kamisato Art Tachi Jutsu. Ayato's skill set includes the creation of a water illusion and the ability to create a realm that deals Hydro AoE damage to enemies. Ayato is also Genshin Impact's newest available power player, as head of the Kamisato Clan and a major figure in the lives of other beloved characters like Ayaka and Thoma.
Beyond these two major additions, Genshin Impact Version 2.6 also adds a slew of other content for players to enjoy. A season event called Hues of the Violet Garden will be hosted by Yae Miko, returning characters like Venti will feature into the story, and new weapons, materials, and more will make their debut in the world of Teyvat.
While players have a good idea of what to expect from Genshin Impact 2.6, there are always a few surprises in store once the Traveler begins exploring the newest content. Even if that weren't the case, however, major updates like The Chasm and Kamisato Ayato are enough to keep players returning to the massive open-world adventure title, and are evidence of one of miHoYo's biggest strengths as a developer - a strong sense of what its players want most, and the ability to deliver on it in timely fashion.
Genshin Impact Version 2.6 is available now. Genshin Impact can be played on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Android/iOS mobile devices.
