Genshin Impact Wiki - FAQ
When does Everwinter Without Mercy launch?
August 12, 2026, after roughly five hours of maintenance starting at 06:00 (UTC+8) -- which lands the evening of August 11 for players in the Americas (around 11:00 PM EDT).
What is Snezhnaya?
Teyvat's seventh and final nation, home to the Fatui and the Tsaritsa, characterized by relentless cold and deadly blizzards, connected by an extensive train system. It's a genuinely long-anticipated region, years in the making.
Who are the new playable characters?
Odette and Alyosha, both confirmed to arrive with Version 7.0. Alyosha is a free 4-star character, while Odette's story quest features a schedule-setting choice that directly changes her fate.
What is the Archon Quest about in this update?
Chapter VII, split into two acts ("Everwinter Without Mercy" and "Wraith's Nocturne"), finally revealing why the Tsaritsa has been gathering Gnoses and why the Fatui have meddled in other nations throughout the game's story.
What new mechanics does Snezhnaya introduce?
The Cryo Traveler (unlocked by resonating with a Statue of the Seven), the Eye of Graeae traversal tool, Goggles for cold protection and interaction, two new elemental reactions, and a shooter-style combat mode.
What free rewards are available with this update?
560 Primogems plus Odette's ascension materials for completing the Archon Quest within the version window, 400 additional Primogems for exploring the new World Quests, and 300 Primogems via redeemable HoYoLab codes.