Exciting news for Genshin Impact enthusiasts! With the upcoming Version 5.5 update, players are in for a treat as two fresh Artifact Sets make their debut. These sets are crafted with specific character dynamics in mind, one enhancing Plunging Attacks and the other designed to boost Cryo characters when their energy levels plummet to zero.
The anticipation for these sets is largely due to their tailored design for new characters like Varesa and Skirk, suggesting a shift towards innovative gameplay styles. This marks a thrilling development as players gear up to explore novel strategies and builds in the game.
Recent leaks suggest that the new update will not only bring these Artifacts but will also significantly build upon the Natlan expansion, a region that first emerged in August 2024 with two notable Artifact Sets. Players were captivated by the Scroll of the Hero of Cinder City and the Obsidian Codex, which seamlessly complemented any Natlan character through their Nightsoul mechanic. While fans eagerly awaited more, the delay in introducing a second Artifact Domain post the Waterfall Wen release in Version 4.3 had them on edge.
Genshin Impact cleverly bypassed the need for a second Artifact Domain in Versions 5.3 and 5.4, thanks to characters like Lan Yan from Liyue and Mizuki from Inazuma fitting right into the existing content. Yet, as the map expands, Version 5.5 necessitates these fresh Artifact Sets, paving the way for characters like Varesa and Iansan who are set to make a grand entry in March 2025. These new sets not only cater to Varesa but are also primed for future 5-Star characters.
Shared by the leaker Narc1ssus, the upcoming Artifact Domain is said to bring two sets: one for Plunging Attack enthusiasts (looking at you, Xiao), and a niche Cryo kit that stands apart for its unique mechanic suited for characters using no Elemental Energy. As of now, only Mavuika and Sethos fit this mold, but neither aligns with Cryo.
Genshin Impact: Version 5.5 Artifact Sets
First Set
- 2-Piece Bonus: Elevates Plunging Attack damage by 25%.
- 4-Piece Bonus: Engaging an enemy with a Plunging Attack, Charged Attack, or Elemental Skill grants up to five stacks of "Everlasting Radiance," each enhancing Plunging Attack damage by an additional 15% for six seconds.
Second Set
- 2-Piece Bonus: Boosts Cryo Damage by 15%.
- 4-Piece Bonus: When energy is depleted, the wielder’s Normal and Elemental Burst Attacks receive a 60% damage surge, though boost effects temporarily disable the other after activation.
Future character Skirk is the lead candidate for the Cryo element, hinting that this second set may be modeled for her elemental prowess. If she shares any gameplay resemblance with Raiden Shogun, her ultimate routine might involve a combination of Elemental Bursts and dynamic normal attacks, much like Tartaglia’s weapon-switching abilities.
As for the first set with its focus on Plunging Attacks, it is expected to be highly coveted by players of Xiao and potentially other similar characters. Genshin aficionados can look forward to incorporating these new strategies and powers when Version 5.5 officially launches on March 26, 2025.
Prepare to dive deeper into Teyvat’s vast world, uncover new gameplay styles, and engage with the thrilling mysteries that await in this ever-expanding universe.