Last verified 2026-09-22 by ReviewGamers Editorial
Genshin Impact will receive Version 7.1 on 23 September 2026, marking the game’s sixth anniversary. HoYoverse has confirmed the update across all platforms, including iOS via the Apple App Store. The new version is titled “A Rekviem for the Underworld” and introduces new story content, playable characters, and anniversary rewards.
Quick facts
- Release date: 23 September 2026 across all platforms
- New Phase 1 characters: Vesna (Anemo Sword) and Vodyanitsa (Hydro Catalyst)
- Anniversary milestone: Sixth anniversary with free 5-star character selectors
- Story: New Archon Quest with confrontations involving the Tsaritsa and Ronova (Ruler of Death, new Weekly Boss)
- Major event: Moonchase Festival returns with new mini-games and 4-star Sword reward
- iOS availability: Simultaneous global release via App Store (app ID 1517783697)
Release date and platforms
Version 7.1 launches on 23 September 2026 for iOS, Android, PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 as a simultaneous global release. Genshin Impact is available on the iOS App Store in Australia and internationally (published by COGNOSPHERE PTE. LTD.). iOS users can pre-download the update now through the App Store and prepare for the patch on release day.
Update title and new content structure
The version is officially titled “A Rekviem for the Underworld” and represents the sixth anniversary of the game. The update will roll out in two character phases with distinct 5-star banners and supporting 4-star lineups.
New playable characters and weapons
Phase 1 (23 September – 13 October 2026)
Two new 5-star characters debut with simultaneous banners:
- Vesna: Anemo Sword wielder. Pairs with the 5-star weapon “Beyond the Chrysalis” (Sword). Enhances Stellar Swirl reactions.
- Vodyanitsa: Hydro Catalyst wielder. Pairs with the 5-star weapon “Hymn of the Maelstrom” (Catalyst). Enhances Stellar Swirl reactions.
Supporting 4-star characters appearing in event wishes: Chongyun, Diona, and Faruzan.
Phase 2 (13 October – 3 November 2026)
Skirk and Escoffier return with their own 5-star character banners during the second half of Version 7.1.
Story content and new boss
The update includes new Archon Quests (Chapters 7, Acts 3 and 4) that continue the Snezhnaya region narrative arc. The story involves direct confrontations with the Tsaritsa and Ronova (the Ruler of Death), introducing Ronova as a new Weekly Boss encounter. Players who complete the latest Archon Quest unlock anniversary rewards.
Anniversary free 5-star selectors
As part of the sixth anniversary celebration, HoYoverse is distributing two free 5-star character selectors:
Event-Exclusive 5-Star Selector Players can claim a free 5-star character from a limited selection: Baizhu, Nilou, Varesa, Tartaglia, Chiori, or Clorinde. This selector is redeemable at any time during Version 7.1.
Standard 5-Star Selector A permanent roster 5-star character selector also returns, allowing players to choose from the standard banner pool.
Additional Anniversary Rewards
- Primogems ×1,600
- Intertwined Fate ×10
- Further rewards distributed throughout the update period
Events and returning festivals
Moonchase Festival The Moonchase Festival returns to Liyue after a five-year absence. The event features new mini-games and offers a 4-star Sword reward called “Silver Light” via progression.
Additional Events Version 7.1 includes a Snezhnaya snowball event and a Natlan tournament prediction event, expanding the engagement calendar across both regions.
What is not yet confirmed
The following details have not been verified on HoYoverse’s official pages and are not claimed in this article:
- Complete ability details and scaling for Vesna and Vodyanitsa
- The full roster of characters available in the event-exclusive 5-star selector
- Exact names and distribution schedule for all daily login rewards
- New world bosses, puzzles, or exploration areas beyond the Archon Quest setting
- Pricing for optional purchases or battle pass offerings
- Performance targets, frame rates, or device-specific requirements for iOS versions
- Whether physical collector’s editions will be available
- Exact duration and reward breakdown for all secondary events
- Character constellation levels and talent materials required for levelling new characters
If any of these details are important to your decision, wait for HoYoverse to publish them on their official site at https://genshin.hoyoverse.com or via in-game announcements.
Platform context for iOS
Version 7.1 is a simultaneous global release across all supported platforms, including iPhone and iPad via the App Store. iOS users in Australia can pre-download and prepare for the update now via the existing Genshin Impact app. Server maintenance will occur before the update launch, with downtime notifications distributed through the App Store and in-game launcher.
The update represents a major content drop for the Snezhnaya region narrative arc and the game’s annual six-year celebration. All premium and free-to-play players can participate in the anniversary rewards without spending money.
What happens next
HoYoverse typically provides additional character detail breakdowns, ability previews, event schedules, and exact reward lists in the days leading up to a major update release. Keep an eye on the official Genshin Impact website and in-game notices for confirmation of character kits, weapon details, constellation effects, and the complete anniversary event calendar. For iOS players, updates and patch notes are distributed through the App Store and the in-game launcher.
Platform hub: iPhone & iPad Games. Game hub: Genshin Impact.