During the Tokyo Game Show 2021, miHoYo hosted a special livestream on October 3rd that gave players their first comprehensive look at Genshin Impact Version 2.2, subtitled "Into the Perilous Labyrinth of Fog." The presentation revealed exciting details about banner reruns, new characters, events, and gameplay features that would shape the game's landscape in late 2021.
Banner Reruns and New Character Introduction
The livestream confirmed two highly anticipated character reruns for Version 2.2. Childe (Tartaglia) would return as the first banner, followed by Hu Tao in the second wave. These reruns gave players another opportunity to acquire these powerful 5-star characters. The update also introduced Thoma, a brand-new 4-star Pyro character wielding a Polearm, who would be featured on Hu Tao's banner. The stream showcased Thoma's gameplay mechanics, giving viewers a preview of his combat style and elemental abilities.
The presentation featured several talented Japanese voice actors, including Shun Horie (Aether/male Traveler), Masakazu Morita (Thoma), and Chiaki Takahashi (Xinyan), with Shohei Taguchi serving as the host.
Exploring Tsurumi Island
Version 2.2 brought the sixth and final island of Inazuma to the game: Tsurumi Island. This mysterious location came with its own set of challenges and environmental features. Players could explore foggy landscapes and uncover the island's secrets while facing new enemy types.
The update introduced four new enemy variants:
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Rockfond Rifthound
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Rockfond Rifthound Welp
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Thundercraven Rifthound
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Thundercraven Rifthound Welp
These Rifthound enemies brought a unique combat mechanic called Corrosion. Unlike typical damage, Corrosion affected the entire party when any character took damage from these creatures. This status effect continuously drained HP from all party members, bypassing shields entirely. This mechanic forced players to rethink their defensive strategies and prioritize healing.
Event Content and Activities
The Labyrinth Warriors Event
The headline event of Version 2.2 centered around Childe and Xinyan, bringing these characters together in an unexpected collaboration. Players ventured into a mysterious Domain in Inazuma alongside these two personalities. The event introduced Shiki Taishou, a peculiar paper figure that provided special assistance and buffs during exploration.
🎮 Event Rewards: Players could obtain Xinyan for free by participating in this event, making her accessible to everyone.
Shadow of the Ancients
This investigation-focused event involved a scholar from Sumeru conducting research on Tsurumi Island. Travelers took on investigation commissions across Mondstadt, Liyue, and Inazuma. The main challenge involved defeating an Anomalous Model Ruin Grader that possessed unusual regenerative capabilities, continuously drawing power from mysterious energy sources.
Tuned to the World's Sounds
For players seeking lighter entertainment, Version 2.2 introduced a rhythm game event. This musical minigame featured performances from several beloved characters:
| Character | Region |
|---|---|
| Ningguang | Liyue |
| Zhongli | Liyue |
| Keqing | Liyue |
| Xiao | Liyue |
| Kokomi | Inazuma |
| Ayaka | Inazuma |
| Raiden Shogun | Inazuma |
Players could enjoy different musical styles while testing their rhythm skills.
New Weapons Arsenal
Version 2.2 expanded the weapon roster with four new options. The 5-star Polar Star bow led the additions, accompanied by three 4-star weapons: Wavebreaker's Fin, Akuomaru, and Mounn's Moon. These weapons provided fresh options for character builds and team compositions.
Housing System Expansion
The Serenitea Pot received significant updates themed around Inazuma culture. The new Silken Courtyard realm layout brought authentic Japanese aesthetics to player housing. Alongside this came numerous Inazuma-themed furniture blueprints, allowing decorators to create authentic island-inspired spaces.
A particularly interesting addition was the Floating Platform furnishing type, which opened new possibilities for creative designs. The Dreams of Bloom event also introduced decorative flowers that could be used as furnishings, adding natural elements to player realms.
Hangout Events Expansion
Thoma and Sayu became the first Inazuma characters to receive Hangout Events. These interactive story experiences allowed players to spend quality time with these characters, learning about their backgrounds and personalities. The events promised to reveal new lore about the Inazuma islands and deepen player connections with the cast.
Quality of Life Improvements
😊 Version 2.2 brought several appreciated quality-of-life updates:
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DualSense Controller Support: PC players gained access to PlayStation 5's advanced controller features
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Aloy Availability: The Horizon Zero Dawn character became available to all players, regardless of platform
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Ley Lines Bonus Return: The popular double rewards event returned, offering twice the EXP tickets or Mora from Ley Lines three times daily
Cross-Platform Collaboration
The update announcement included news of a Razer collaboration, featuring gaming peripherals and furniture inspired by Genshin Impact. While specific release dates weren't provided during the stream, the partnership signaled continued expansion of the game's presence beyond the digital realm.
Launch Timeline
Version 2.2 "Into the Perilous Labyrinth of Fog" officially launched on October 13, 2021, giving players ample time to prepare for the new content. The announcement came as the Moonchase Festival Event was still running until October 11, ensuring continuous content availability.
This update represented a significant milestone for Genshin Impact, completing the Inazuma archipelago while introducing gameplay mechanics that challenged established strategies. The combination of character reruns, new content, and quality-of-life improvements made Version 2.2 one of the most comprehensive updates since the game's initial release. For both veteran players and newcomers, the update offered fresh experiences while maintaining the exploration and combat elements that made Genshin Impact so engaging.