Genshin Impact continues its steady stream of new content with the upcoming version 5.5 update, set to launch around March 26th.  HoYoverse recently revealed key features of the update during a Special Program, exciting fans with a glimpse of a new Natlan sub-region, new characters, and anticipated reruns.

The highlight of 5.5 is the unveiling of a new area within the Pyro nation of Natlan. This sub-region features the majestic Great Volcano of Tollan, a key landmark that players have long awaited. Located in southwestern Natlan, access to the volcano requires interaction with the Collective of Plenty, one of Natlan's six tribes, which is being introduced in this update.  The region will also boast numerous floating islands, with speculation swirling around the use of Phlogiston for inter-island travel.  This significant addition fuels theories that this could be the final Natlan expansion within the current narrative arc.

The Special Program also teased unique environmental effects present within the Great Volcano of Tollan, leading players to speculate about interactive elements and potential World Quests tied to these effects.

Two new characters will be making their debut in 5.5: the five-star Varesa and the four-star Iansan.  Varesa's gameplay revolves around a synergy between her Charged and Plunging Attacks, Elemental Skill, and a unique Nightsoul mechanic.  While Iansan is Varesa's mentor, her four-star rarity has surprised some fans who anticipated a five-star ranking given her prominent appearance in early story teasers from 2020.

Accompanying Varesa and Iansan in the first phase of 5.5 banners will be the popular Liyue character, Xianyun.  The second phase features reruns for the powerful Geo support character, Xilonen, and the Anemo Archon, Venti.  This appearance by Venti aligns with HoYoverse's recent pattern of featuring an Archon in each update following a new region's release, as Venti was the sole Archon absent from banners since Natlan's introduction.