Update as of May 5th, 11:55 UTC:

Developers have announced scheduled maintenance for the Genshin Impact 5.6 update, starting on May 7th at 06:00 (UTC+8) and expected to last approximately 5 hours. Players will not be able to log in during this time.

The update brings bug fixes, optimizations, and adjustments. Pre-installation is already available across all platforms, and players are encouraged to use Wi-Fi for the download. Eligible players (Adventure Rank 5+) will receive 300 Primogems as compensation, distributed via in-game mail. Detailed patch notes will be available shortly after maintenance concludes.

Original news:

Genshin Impact’s new update, version 5.6, titled “Paralogism,” was officially announced with a trailer released yesterday on the official channel. The update brings a wealth of new content, taking us back to Mondstadt for a new Interlude Archon Quest starring Albedo, Venti, and the Knights of Favonius, along with new characters Dahlia and Alice.

Players will also revisit Fontaine for the main limited-time event and dive into Escoffier’s Story Quest. With a mix of nostalgic locations and fresh gameplay elements, this update promises to captivate both new and returning players.

Genshin Impact 5.6 Release Date and Time

Genshin Impact 5.6 is set to launch on Wednesday, May 7th, 5 AM (CEST) following the usual maintenance schedule for new updates.

The countdown has begun! Ensure that your inventory and teams are prepared for the thrilling new content. From traveling the scenic routes of Mondstadt to fighting against challenging opponents in Fontaine, this update offers an action-filled adventure.

New Features and Content

New Characters

• Escoffier: A 5-star Cryo polearm user from Fontaine, known as the "​Demon Chef." Formerly the Head Chef at Hotel Debord, she is renowned for her Precision Gastronomy and has a mysterious past linked to the Fortress of Meropide. Her story unfolds in a dedicated Character Quest featuring a high-stakes cooking showdown.
• Ifa: A 4-star Anemo catalyst user from Natlan, Ifa is Natlan's favorite veterinarian. She will be featured on Escoffier’s banner during Phase One of Version 5.6.

New Bosses

• Secret Source Automaton: Overseer Device: An overworld boss that drops materials required for leveling Escoffier. Details about its location are yet to be fully revealed.​
• The Game Before the Gate: A new Weekly Boss is introduced in the Mondstadt Interlude Chapter: Act 4. This boss features two different phases set in unique locations.​

Archon Quest – Interlude Chapter: Act 4

The storyline returns to Mondstadt, where Albedo faces a shocking scandal, accused of murder and the unlawful disposal of human remains. The trial is conducted in secret, with the Knights of Favonius’ logistics captain claiming to have undeniable proof.​

Genshin Impact 5.6 Banners

The banners for version 5.6 introduce a new 5-star character, Escoffier, and a new 4-star character, Ifa, alongside several returning fan favorites. Players will have ample opportunities to strengthen their rosters with these highly anticipated characters.

Phase 1 (May 7th – May 27th)

• Escoffier (“La Chanson Cerise” Banner): A new 5-star Cryo character wielding a polearm. Her unique skillset and elegant design have already garnered significant attention from the community.
• Navia (“In the Name of the Rosula” Banner): A returning 5-star Geo character wielding a claymore. Known for her durability and versatility, Navia remains a strong choice for Geo enthusiasts.
• Ifa: A new 4-star Anemo character using a catalyst, featured on both Escoffier and Navia’s banners. With her whimsical abilities and stylish animations, Ifa is a delightful addition to the Anemo roster.

In Phase 1 of the Version 5.6 weapon banner, a new 5-star polearm weapon will be introduced: the Symphonist of Scents, Escoffier's signature weapon.

Phase 2 (May 27th – June 17th)

• Kinich (“Seeker of Flame-Wrought Secrets” Banner): A returning 5-star Dendro claymore-user. His fiery personality and potent abilities make him a popular pick among players.
• Raiden Shogun (“Reign of Serenity” Banner): A returning 5-star Electro polearm-user. As a fan-favorite Archon, Raiden Shogun’s rerun is sure to excite veterans and newcomers alike.

Additionally, the Chronicled Wish Banner returns with characters and weapons from Inazuma. The featured 5-star characters include Ayaka, Ayato, Yoimiya, and others, while notable weapons such as Mistsplitter Reforged and Thundering Pulse will also be available. These powerful tools are sure to enhance any team’s combat prowess.

Quality-of-Life Improvements

• Treasure Compass Update: Now tracks Warrior Challenges, Tribal Secret Spaces, and Mora chests from various nations when you raise your Exploration progress level.​
• Custom Map Pins: Players can now delete custom map pins in batches, making map management more efficient.​
• Imaginarium Theater Update: Includes a rework of Brilliant Blessing details and a restart button after finishing the final Act.
• Talent and Constellation Descriptions: The descriptions for new characters will be more concise, aiding in a better understanding of their abilities.​​

Genshin Impact 5.6 Events

Version 5.6 comes packed with engaging events that offer a mix of new gameplay mechanics, exciting rewards, and story content. From management simulations to strategic combat, there’s something for everyone to enjoy:

• Whirling Waltz: The main event is set in Fontaine, where players manage the Chevalmarin Film Fantasyland. Featuring Navia, Kinich, Ororon, and Ifa, this event immerses players in a unique narrative. Rewards include the new 4-star Sequence of Solitude bow, Crown of Insight, and Primogems.
• Operation Downpour Simulation: A top-down tower defense event that supports co-op gameplay. Defend strategic points and claim valuable rewards, including Primogems and character materials.
• Legends Ablaze: Cross-Border Brawl: A coin-collecting mini-game event allowing players to inhabit Saurians. Test your agility and collect rewards such as weapon enhancement materials and Mora.
• Chronicle of Shifting Stratagems: A combat event encouraging players to experiment with team compositions for various challenges. With dynamic scenarios and flexible strategies, this event is a must-try for theorycrafters.
• Genius Invokation TCG Updates: New character cards, such as Sethos and Xilonen, along with new action cards, have been added. Some characters in TCG will receive unique Lustrous skins that are purchasable for 8000 Lucky Coins.​

Additional system updates include improved Treasure Compass functionality, the ability to delete custom map pins in batches, and optimized character descriptions for talents and constellations. These are quality of life changes that bring smoother gameplay to everyone.

Genshin Impact 5.6 delivers a bounty of new adventures and rewards, solidifying its status as an elite action RPG. Whether you are immersing yourself in the story, planning for banners, or just soaking up the new events, this patch delivers something for everyone. The combination of popular characters and new mechanics ensures that Teyvat's world is still as captivating as ever.