The cast of characters in HoYoverse's Genshin Impact hails from the continent of Teyvat,[a] which has seven nations: Mondstadt, Liyue, Inazuma, Sumeru, Fontaine, Natlan, and Snezhnaya. Each nation is ruled by one of seven Archons, gods[b] that represent seven different elements: Anemo (air), Geo (earth), Pyro (fire), Hydro (water), Cryo (ice), Electro (electricity), and Dendro (plant).[1][2] Nearly all playable characters control one of these elements with help from a Vision, a device Celestia grants to those with great ambitions, with the exception of some characters who control or mimic the elements through their own supernatural powers, or through the use of Vision-like items called Moon Wheels.
Genshin Impact producer Cai Haoyu said that characters are one of the most important components of the game. The characters have unique gameplay based on different elements, which represent the cultural characteristics of their respective regions. The multi-character design of the game is derived from Japanese card games. New characters are continuously introduced; at the same time, contrary to mainstream and past designs that used characters to serve the plot, the production team designed a narrative centered on characters, carrying out multi-plotline parallel narratives under the same worldview. In addition, the characters of Genshin Impact are the main source of profit for the game, with most characters obtained through a wishing mechanic, while other content in the game is provided to players for free.[3]
Each character is designed by a team rather than an individual and there are no "art director" or "creative director" positions in MiHoYo. The production team first establishes the character's background story and place of residence, then conducts internal discussions and brainstorming. Afterwards, they evaluate the character's art style, background design, and gameplay mechanics based on player preferences. Once a concept design is finalized, the character design process enters the modeling stage. The production team continuously reviews the character's 3D model to ensure that it is consistent with the concept drawing. In terms of character rendering, the in-game character model and the scene are rendered independently. The scene uses deferred shading, while the characters use forward rendering, allowing the production team to control all lighting effects to ensure that the effect of the character presentation always meets the artist's expectations. To maintain the display effect of the character's face, a system that will automatically adjust according to the direction of the main light source was designed. In terms of the overall shadow effect of the character, the production team depicts the character in a cartoonish art style through cel shading, while also allowing the character to be affected by real-time light sources.[3]
In terms of character artificial intelligence (AI) design, the production team has been developing the game's character AI system since 2017. AI is mainly divided into three categories: humans, wildlife, and non-player characters (NPCs) in combat. There were more than 200 types of AI in the early stages of the game. With the increase in AI brought about by game updates, the production team designed an AI framework and established an independent AI pipeline, breaking the inference modules into different categories according to each function to facilitate subsequent updates and maintenance. The character's behavior is based on a decision tree system to determine the character's skills or movements, and the data will be imported into the animation system for execution. The entire system facilitates giving NPCs different personalities and special abilities, also allowing boss-type characters to have unique actions.[4]
For a character's background, the production team creates their image by building interpersonal relationship networks for the character and refining the regional cultural background of the character's origin.[5] Before the character is officially launched in the game, miHoYo promotes them by releasing relevant videos through its official social media accounts for promotion. Initially, a character teaser in Live2D is released to provide a first impression of their design, identity and personality to players. The day before the character's release, a character trailer (formerly termed "character demo") is released, showing their detailed 3D model, combat animations, skill effects, and some exclusive story and interaction clips. Finally, "Collected Miscellany" videos explain how to use the character's skills and their unique mechanics, with the narrator also describing and commenting on the character's personality based on their respective worldviews.[6]
MiHoYo has launched character design surveys to gather feedback on players' opinions on the game's character designs, including what they look for in characters, whether the character's design is close to reality, fits their identity and personality, is original, lines up with others from the same faction, or contains regional cultural elements.[7]
Voiced by: Yanning (Geng Minglin) (Chinese); Sarah Miller-Crews[9] (English); Aoi Yūki[9] (Japanese); Lee Sae-a[ko] (Korean) (Lumine)
The main protagonist of the game. Players can choose either Aether (male) or Lumine (female) as their Traveler, with the unchosen twin becoming the non-playable lost sibling, now the Prince/Princess of the Abyss Order. After being separated from their twin, they embark on a journey to meet the gods of Teyvat and reunite with their lost sibling. Players can name the Traveler at the beginning of the game. The name chosen by the player will be the name used to refer to the Traveler in-game, and only the Traveler's Sibling calls the Traveler by their real name.
Voiced by: Xie Ying (Chinese); Cat Protano (English); Mamiko Noto (Japanese); Seo Dahye (Korean)
An alien swordswoman who took Tartaglia as an apprentice after he fell into the Abyss as a teenager.[12] Being the only survivor of her civilization's genocide, she was rescued and trained by Surtalogi and sent to Teyvat to learn about his past. She uses the Seven-Shifting Serpent, an ancient Khaenri'ahn technique he imparted to her, to mimic Cryo while traveling Teyvat.
A stern astrologist who often finds herself strapped for money. She is a disciple of Barbeloth, a member of the Hexenzirkel, an organization of powerful mages.[13]
A member of the Mondstadt branch of the Adventurers' Guild, who is well known for his almost supernaturally bad luck.[13][14] He is revealed to be born Natlanese, with his bad luck attributed to being disconnected from Natlan's Ley Lines since infancy.
The head of the Ragnvindr Clan which is well known for running the Dawn Winery, Mondstadt's premier winery. A solitary businessman and vintner who was formerly the Cavalry Captain of the Knights of Favonius. He and Kaeya grew up as adopted brothers, but are no longer on friendly terms. He secretly operates as a vigilante nicknamed "the Darknight Hero".[13]
A descendant of the Kätzlein bloodline and alcohol-hating bartender of the Cat's Tail tavern,[13] whose goal is to destroy Mondstadt's wine industry. Unknown to her, she was blessed by her childhood friend to always make delicious drinks regardless of the ingredients.
Durin (杜林; Dùlín)
Voiced by: Hualing (Chinese); Laura K. Welsh (English); Aya Hisakawa (Japanese); Unknown (Korean) (Dragon form)
Voiced by: Tao Dian (Chinese); Laura K. Welsh (English); Chiaki Kobayashi (Japanese); Kim Ji-yul (Korean) (Human form)
A dragon from the fairy-tale world of Simulanka, created by the witch Andersdotter of the Hexenzirkel. He was based on Teyvat's real dragon of the same name, created by Rhinedottir. After being granted his wish for a friendlier form, he leaves Simulanka to travel Teyvat. Later, with Albedo's help, he is transformed into a synthetic human after merging with the original Durin's life force and replaces him as the new Durin.
Fischl von Luftschloss Narfidort (菲谢尔•冯•露弗施洛斯•那菲多特; Fēixiè'ěr Féng Lùfúshīluòsī Nàfēiduōtè) /Amy (艾咪; Àimī) and Ozvaldo von Hrafnavins[c] (奥兹华尔多•赫芙那梵茵斯; Àozīhuá'ěrduō Hèfúnàfànyīnsī)
An eccentric investigator for the Adventurers' Guild who claims to be a princess from another world. She is based on the chūnibyō trope.[15] She travels with her night raven familiar and companion, Oz.
A mysterious boy who was raised by wolves in Wolvendom.[13] He has slowly begun interacting with humans and learning their language, guided by his teacher Lisa Minci.
The Chief Alchemist of the Knights of Favonius and the Captain of its Investigation Team. Albedo is not human, but rather the "Kreideprinz", a homunculus created by the Khaenri'ahn alchemist and Hexenzirkel member, Rhinedottir.[13][17]
An outgoing, gregarious Knight of Favonius and the only member of its Outrider unit; she is widely regarded as the gliding champion of Mondstadt.[13][18] She is the first playable character to interact with the Traveler.
A descendant of the Lawrence Clan, whose tyrannical rule of Mondstadt eventually resulted in its overthrow and exile. She currently works for the Knights of Favonius as the Captain of its Reconnaissance Company.[13]
Jean Gunnhildr (琴•古恩希尔德; Qín Gǔ'ēnxī'ěrdé)
Voiced by: Lin Su (Tang Suling) (Chinese); Stephanie Southerland[9] (English); Chiwa Saitō[9] (Japanese); Ahn Young-mi[ko] (Korean)
An heir of the Gunnhildr Clan who is the Acting Grand Master and deputy Master of the Knights of Favonius, and Barbara's older sister. She is regarded as the Dandelion Knight.[13]
A cheerful young girl who refers to herself as the Spark Knight and is the daughter of Alice, a powerful sorceress and leader of the Hexenzirkel. Klee's obsession with explosives at a young age and destructive nature, inherited from her mother, has caused her to often be placed in solitary confinement.[13]
The current Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, who departed on an expedition half a year before the game's events. Varka is currently in Nod-Krai with his retinue to investigate after discovering new information during his expedition.
Church of Favonius
The Church of Favonius is the chruch subordinate to the Knights of Favonius, worshipping Lord Barbatos.
The Deaconess of the Church of Favonius, the primary religious entity in Mondstadt. Also a famous idol, she is a member of the Gunnhildr Clan[f] and the younger sister of Jean.[13][20]
Voiced by: Qin Qiege (Chinese); Sean Durrie (English); Kōji Yusa (Japanese); Lee Hosan[ko] (Korean) (Baizhu)
Voiced by: Wang Xiaotong (Chinese); Xanthe Huynh (English); Yui Shoji (Japanese); Jang Mi (Korean) (Changsheng)
The owner of the Bubu Pharmacy and guardian of the jiangshi Qiqi.[13] He is accompanied by Changsheng, an adeptus currently in the form of a snake. She is bound by contract to Baizhu and aids him in using his life force to heal patients.
An exorcist with a pure-yang spirit able to drive away evil spirits, who has never actually seen a spirit to exorcise.[13]
Ganyu (甘雨; Gānyǔ)
Voiced by: Lin Su (Tang Suling) (Chinese); Jennifer Losi[9] (English); Reina Ueda[9] (Japanese); Kim Sun-hye[ko] (Korean)
The half-qilin secretary of the Liyue Qixing. She is also an adeptus, a species of illuminated beasts native to Liyue, and is currently bound by a contract involving the Geo Archon.[13]
The 77th Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, who is carefree and lively. She never misses an opportunity to sell coffins to people, and enjoys playing pranks on others.[13]
Lan Yan (蓝砚; Lán Yàn)
Voiced by: Liu Shisi (Chinese); Anna Devlin (English); Shion Wakayama[9] (Japanese); Kim Soon-mi (Korean)
The master rattan weaver of the Chenyu Vale Artisans Association.[22]
Mao Xiangling (卯香菱; Mǎo Xiānglíng) and Guoba (锅巴; Guōbā) formerly Marchosius (马科修斯; Mǎkēxiūsī)
Voiced by: Xiao N (Jiang Li) (Chinese); Jackie Lastra[9] (English); Ari Ozawa[9] (Japanese); Yun A-yeong[ko] (Korean) (Xiangling)
The head chef of Wanmin Restaurant, accompanied by a small bear named Guoba. Guoba was once the Stove God and Patron God of the Soil, who sacrificed his power to vitalize the land, greatly reducing his physical size and intelligence.[13]
The sole remaining member of the Yakshas, a specialised group of adepti tasked with protecting Liyue from evil gods and spirits, at the cost of being infected with karma.[13]
A guard of the Sword and Strongbox Secure Transport Agency, which escorts goods from Yilong Wharf to Liyue Harbor. As the head of the Mighty Mythical Beasts, he seeks to make the Wushou Dance a regular occurrence in Liyue Harbor.[24]
A member of the Liyue Qixing, the governing body of Liyue, who manages the nation's real estate. Some consider her odd due to her lack of devotion to the Archons.[13]
A mischievous oni and leader of the Arataki Gang.[13] His delinquency often places him at odds with the Tenryou Commission and its general, Kujou Sara.
A ronin and poet who is a temporary member of Beidou's crew. Despite his remarkable skill with a blade, Kazuha is a gentle soul who wishes to travel without the burdens of his past.[13]
A mujina-costumed ninja who is a member of the Shuumatsuban, an organization the Yashiro Commission secretly runs. She believes that sleeping will make her grow taller.[13][33]
A clever kitsune and the owner of the Yae Publishing House. She is also the head shrine maiden of the Grand Narukami shrine and an old friend of Raiden Ei and Yumemizuki Mizuki, her business rival.[13]
Yumemizuki Mizuki (梦见月瑞希; Mèngjiànyuè Ruìxī)
Voiced by: Fu Meng Ruo Wei (Chinese); Naomi McDonald (English); Saya Aizawa[9] (Japanese); Kim Seo-hyun[ko] (Korean)
A yumekui-baku who is a clinical psychologist with remarkable talent for reading minds, and a major shareholder of Aisa Bathhouse.[35]
The aloof Scribe of the Sumeru Akademiya, who is responsible for documenting their findings. He briefly served as Acting Grand Sage after the previous one, Azar, was exiled.
Voiced by: Qin Wenjing (Chinese); Christina Costello (English); Ryoko Maekawa (Japanese); Bang Si-woo (Korean)
An Avidya Forest Ranger trainee under Tighnari's mentorship and a close friend of Amber. She is one of the main characters of the manga, which details her traumatic past.[13]
The intimidating General Mahamatra of the Matra, a group of disciplinary officers who work for the Akademiya. He is also a vessel for the power of Hermanubis.[13]
A theoretical astrology student at the Sumeru Akademiya who suffers from chronic sleep deprivation. She has a livelier, more pragmatic alter ego when she falls asleep.[13]
Voiced by: Hualing (Lin Min) (Chinese); Kimberley Anne Campbell (English); Yukari Tamura (Japanese); Park Shi-Yoon[ko] (Korean)
The current Dendro Archon, who is known as Lesser Lord Kusanali to her citizens. She is the reincarnation and successor of Greater Lord Rukkhadevata.[j][13]
Voiced by: Luyin (Dong Hailong) (Chinese); Patrick Pedraza (English); Tetsuya Kakihara (Japanese); Min Seung-woo[ko] (Korean)
The former Sixth Fatui Harbinger. He was originally created as a prototype by Raiden Ei to carry the Electro Gnosis before she abandoned him. He tried and failed to erase himself from the world's memories in an attempt to re-write the past. Upon his failure, he was kept in Nahida's custody and enrolled into the Akademiya, where he is frequently called "Hat Guy".[38]
An undefeated Champion Duelist in Fontaine who once served as Furina's personal bodyguard. A successor of Fontaine's Marechaussee Hunters of old, she is trained in the art of their swordsmanship.[45]
A renowned perfumer whose products are highly sought out by Fontaine's fashionistas. She also works in the background as a forensic cleaner and is a friend of Chevreuse, having helped her solve some difficult cases.[46]
Escoffier (爱可菲; Àikěfēi)
Voiced by: Cai Haiting (Chinese); Emily Cass (English); Satomi Satō (Japanese); Son Jung-min (Korean)
The strict and talented ex-head chef of Hotel Debord whose precision gastronomy is famed in Fontaine. She is a hot topic in the culinary world because of her merciless critiques of both colleagues and apprentices.[47]
Freminet (菲米尼; Fēimǐní)
Voiced by: Jinli (Chen Jinwen) (Chinese); Paul Castro Jr. (English); Shun'ichi Toki (Japanese); Lee Joo-seung (Korean)
A shy diver who is well known in Fontaine for his focus and expertise. He is Lyney and Lynette's adoptive younger brother. Like them, he belongs to the House of the Hearth, an orphanage run by the Fatui.[13]
An actress and celebrity in Fontaine who has a childlike temper, but who can also be caring at times. She is the human half of the former Hydro Archon, Focalors.[l][48]
A famous magician in Fontaine and Lynette's brother. He is outgoing and spirited, in contrast to his siblings. Like his sister, he belongs to the House of the Hearth.[13]
The president of the Spina di Rosula, an organization in Fontaine that extends aid and assistance to citizens that the nation's governing body does not cover.[49]
Neuvillette (那维莱特; Nàwéiláitè)
Voiced by: Sang Yuze (Chinese); Ray Chase (English); Hiroshi Kamiya (Japanese); Kwak Yoon-sang (Korean)
The imposing Chief Justice of the Court of Fontaine. He is also the reincarnation of the Hydro Sovereign, the Dragon of Water, one of the rulers of Teyvat's ancient dragon race.[13]
The head nurse of the Fortress of Meropide's infirmary. She is a Melusine, albeit one with a special body that is physiologically closer to a human's.[50]
The Administrator and Warden of the Fortress of Meropide, an autonomous underwater stronghold that serves as Fontaine's de facto prison. He often goes by the title of "Duke", or "Your Grace".[13]
A well-known peacekeeper from Tlalocan who was adopted by the Qucusaurs as a child. She is one of the six heroes chosen by the Wayob and her Ancient Name is Vuka (Transcension).[52]
Citlali (茜特菈莉; Xītèlālì)
Voiced by: Liu Zhixiao (Chinese); Skyler Davenport (English); Asami Tano (Japanese); Lee Eun-jo (Korean)
The high priestess of Mictlan and the adoptive grandmother of Ororon, who lives in seclusion from the tribe. Afflicted with a long life span, she is called "Granny Itztli" by the Natlanese and her predictions are always accurate. Her Ancient Name is Ukumbuko (Memory).[53]
Iansan (伊安珊; Yī'ānshān)
Voiced by: Zhen Li (Chinese); Katrina Salisbury (English); Ayaka Ōhashi (Japanese); Lee Jae-hyeon (Korean)
The head coach and founder of the fitness club, Pilgrimage Victors Academy and a renowned nutritionist from Teteocan. She is one of the six heroes chosen by the Wayob and her Ancient Name is Uwezo (Power).[54]
Ifa (伊法; Yīfǎ) and Cacucu (咔库库; Kǎkùkù)
Voiced by: Lu Shujun (Chinese); Jonny Loquasto (English); Junta Terashima (Japanese); Park Ki-wook (Korean) (Ifa)
Voiced by: Lu Shujun (Chinese); Dominic Catrambone (English); Shōhei Komatsu (Japanese); Park Ki-wook (Korean) (Cacucu)
A renowned Saurian veterinarian from Tlalocan who travels with his companion Cacucu. Cacucu assists at Ifa's clinic and is capable of understanding and mimicking human speech.[55]
Kachina (卡齐娜; Kǎqínà)
Voiced by: Jing Chen (Chinese); Kristen McGuire (English); Yurika Kubo (Japanese); Son Seon-young (Korean)
A young and determined girl from Nanatzcayan, known for her tenacity and knowledge of the land. Her Ancient Name is Uthabiti (Resilience).[56]
Kinich (基尼奇; Jīníqí) and K'uhul Ajaw (库胡勒阿乔; Kùhúlè Āqiáo)
Voiced by: Banma (Ma Banma) (Chinese); Jacob Takanashi[n] (English); Noriaki Sugiyama (Japanese); Kim Seong-woo (Korean) (Kinich)
Voiced by: Mi Yang (Chinese); Abby Espiritu (English); Junko Takeuchi (Japanese); Park Ri-na (Korean) (K'uhul Ajaw)
A Saurian Hunter from Huitztlan who believes that everything comes at a price. He holds a questionable reputation for his profession and setting his own price for his work; however, he accepts tasks that others would refuse. He is one of the six heroes chosen by the Wayob and his Ancient Name is Malipo (Turnfire). He is accompanied by K'uhul Ajaw, a self-proclaimed "Almighty Dragonlord" who was once one of the Thirteen Sovereign Lords.
Mavuika (玛薇卡; Mǎwēikǎ)
Voiced by: Li Ye (Chinese); Katiana Sarkissian (English); Mikako Komatsu (Japanese); Kim Na-yul (Korean)
The current Pyro Archon, Haborym. She was a member of Huitztlan before ascending to the position. Her Ancient Name is Kiongozi (Leader).[58]
A young man from Mictlan, with a strong ability to perceive souls who grew up as a disciple of Citlali. He is one of the six heroes chosen by the Wayob and his Ancient Name is Bidii (Devotion).[60]
Varesa (瓦雷莎; Wǎléishā)
Voiced by: Qiao Su (Chinese); Jane Jackson (English); Mao Ichimichi (Japanese); Kim Ye-rim (Korean)
A laid-back orchard owner, warrior and competitive eater from Teteocan who won the 242nd Inferno Stomach Supremo competition.[61] She is considered by Iansan as her prime student.
Xilonen (希诺宁; Xīnuòníng)
Voiced by: Mi Yang (Chinese); Elizabeth Dean (English); Fairouz Ai (Japanese); Kim I-an (Korean)
A smith from Nanatzcayan whose skill with the forge is renowned throughout Natlan. She has designed and created multiple custom implements for her friends and also possesses the knowledge and skill required to forge Ancient Names. She is one of the six heroes chosen by the Wayob and her Ancient Name is Baraka (Blessing).[62]
Snezhnaya
Nod-Krai is scheduled to be released in September 2025, with the rest of Snezhnaya expected for release in 2026. Some characters from Snezhnaya were released earlier due to their involvement in other regions' Archon Quests.[51]
Nod-Krai
Nod-Krai is an autonomous region located at the southernmost part of Snezhnaya. Kuuvahki, a primordial lunar energy predating the seven elements, is abundant in Nod-Krai and harnessed for many purposes, including powering the Vision-like Moon Wheels and their Lunar Elemental Reactions.
Aino (爱诺; Àinuò)
Voiced by: Ge Zirui (Chinese); Annabel Brook (English); Natsumi Takamori (Japanese); Jo Kyoung-i (Korean)
The creator of Ineffa and founder of the Clink-Clank Krumkake Craftshop, who can piece together all kinds of intricate machines for various functions just from the scrap metal she collects.[63]
Voiced by: Wang Wei (Chinese); Chris Tergliafera (English); Ken Narita (Japanese); Min Eung-sik (Korean)
The First Fatui Harbinger, formerly a Sentinel Knight of Khaenri'ah. Extremely powerful and enigmatic, he is well-respected within the Fatui and holds a strong sense of righteousness. He sacrificed himself in place of Mavuika after she used Ronova's powers.
Il Dottore (多托雷; Duōtuōléi) a.k.a.The Doctor (博士; Bóshì) /Zandik (赞迪克; Zàndíkè)
The Second Fatui Harbinger and an exile from Sumeru's Akademiya. Ambitious and obsessed with transcending the boundaries of humanity, he is a mad scientist unfettered by morality. He created multiple segments of himself based on different stages of his life. He obtained the Electro and Dendro Gnoses from Nahida, in exchange for destroying his segments and for information about the false sky of Teyvat respectively.
Voiced by: Huang Ying (Chinese); Erin Yvette (English); Nanako Mori (Japanese); Lee Myung-Hee (Korean)
The Fourth Fatui Harbinger of Khaenri'ahn lineage and director of the House of the Hearth orphanage, commonly addressed as "Father" by its members. She obtained the title after killing Crucabena, the previous Knave. She obtained the Hydro Gnosis from Neuvillette after Fontaine was saved from its prophesied destruction.[70]
Voiced by: Wang Xiaobing (Chinese); Dave B. Mitchell (English); Chō (Japanese); Kang Koo-han (Korean)
The Fifth Fatui Harbinger. He is a capable mayor in Snezhnaya, able to make great gains at small prices. He inducted Tartaglia into the Fatui and takes care of his family when he is away from Snezhnaya.
The Eighth Fatui Harbinger and formerly the Crimson Witch of Flame. She seized the Anemo Gnosis from Venti and bargained with Zhongli for the Geo Gnosis. She was executed by the Raiden Shogun after losing a duel with the Traveler.
The Eleventh Fatui Harbinger. He was trained by Skirk after he fell into the Abyss as a teenager. Despite being carefree, he is an expert combatant proficient with multiple weapons. He is obsessed with battle and enjoys fighting powerful opponents, with his only goal being to become stronger. [13]
Khaenri'ah
Khaenri'ah is expected to be released after Snezhnaya.
A wandering stranger who served as the knight captain of the Khaenri'ahn Royal Guard and was cursed with immortality after failing to protect its citizens. He used to travel with the Traveler's sibling and occasionally meets with the Traveler to share information he has gathered about their lost twin and the Abyss Order.[71] Dainsleif is also the usual narrator for "Collected Miscellany" videos.
Five Sinners
The Five Sinners refers to five individuals[o] of great esteem in Khaenri'ah, who became allured by the power of the Abyss and shared a world-shattering power among themselves. None of them came to defend Khaenri'ah when the cataclysm struck.
Voiced by: Lin Qiang (Chinese); Unknown (English); Ryōta Takeuchi (Japanese); Lee Min-kyu (Korean)
Skirk's master and the owner of the All-Devouring Narwhal, which he regards as a pet. Too strong for his own good, he sent Skirk to Teyvat to train on her own in the hopes that one day she could give him the battle he wishes for.
Dainsleif's older brother. He was a prophet in Khaenri'ah, able to make prophecies with perfect accuracy, for which he was imprisoned and blinded in both eyes. He once foretold that Surtalogi would send a disciple to Teyvat for reasons unknown; this was later revealed to be Skirk.
Voiced by: Duoduo Poi (Shi Xinlei) (Chinese); Corina Boettger & Anonymous[p] (English); Aoi Koga[9] (Japanese); Kim Ga-ryeong (Korean)
The Traveler's guide and companion, who mostly speaks for them due to them being a silent protagonist.
Katheryne (凯瑟琳; Kǎisèlín)
Voiced by: Xiao N (Jiang Li) (Chinese); Erica Mendez[73] (English); Mai Sato (Japanese); Park Go-woon (Korean)
The receptionist of the Adventurer's Guild. She, along with the other Katherynes, are revealed to be bionic puppets made in Snezhnaya.
Four Shades
The Four Shades are the envoys and emissaries under the Heavenly Principles. Embodying fundamental concepts of existence, they exert their influence on a higher plane of reality.
The Ruler of Space. She is the god responsible for separating the Traveler from their sibling at the beginning of the game, thus beginning their journey through Teyvat. Her location is currently unknown, with Istaroth speculating that she may have "switched sides".
The Ruler of Time. She was worshipped in Mondstadt alongside the Anemo Archon and in the lost civilization of Enkanomiya, being the only Shade to answer its citizens in their plight. Her existence was eventually forgotten in Teyvat. Ei and Yae Miko suspect her involvement in manipulating time for Makoto to plant the divine Sacred Sakura tree in Inazuma's past.
Ronova (若娜瓦; Ruònàwǎ)
Voiced by: Selene (Chinese); Aiden Dawn (English); Fumiko Orikasa (Japanese); Park Yi-seo (Korean)
The Ruler of Death. She once helped in the creation of the Night Kingdom by setting unique rules for Natlan, enabling the reconstruction of its Ley Lines and establishment of a unique framework for ordinary humans to become Pyro Archons by proving themselves in battle. However, this displeased the Heavenly Principles, consequently turning her aloof and indifferent to the nation. Centuries ago, she enacted divine punishment upon the pure-blooded Khaenri'ahns, cursing them with immortality and leaving them to rot and suffer through erosion for centuries.
The Ruler of Life. She was given the duty to create life and was responsible for helping the Heavenly Principles create animals, plants, and humans. She also created Egeria to function as the Primordial Sea's new heart after the original Hydro Dragon perished. After the Cataclysm, her heart was discovered and consumed by Rhinedottir, fusing the two. Rhinedottir, as Naberius, now presumably fulfils her original functions.
Hexenzirkel
The Hexenzirkel is a mysterious coven of mages, some of whom possess immense power. They conduct explorations of the world tree that holds all of Teyvat's information, Irminsul, and sometimes host "formal tea parties".
Founder and Elder of the Hexenzirkel, creator of Simulanka, and Klee's mother. She is a potent sorceress, adventurer and prolific inventor whose experiments often end destructively. She is also the sustainer of Teyvat's borders and goes by the codename "A". Alice has narrated "Collected Miscellany" videos for certain characters like Aloy, Dori and the Wanderer.
Anya M. Andersdotter (安雅・ M ・安德斯多特; Ānyǎ M Āndésīduōtè)
Voiced by: Wang Yingying (Chinese); Samantha Cooper (English); Shiho Kawaragi (Japanese); Kim Seo-yeong (Korean)
An exceptional storyteller, having authored the renowned book The Boar Princess, co-creator of Simulanka and creator of Mini Durin. Being one of two known humans in the Hexenzirkel, she is now deceased. She used the codename "M".
A master hydromancer, visionary, and teacher of Mona, who often refers to her as an "old hag". She goes by the codename "B".
I. Ivanovna N. (I・伊万诺夫娜・N; I Yīwànnuòfūnà N)
Voiced by: Zhou Shuai (Chinese); Emma Romasco (English); Kaori Nazuka (Japanese); Han Chae-un (Korean)
The first Mayor of Snezhnaya. She left the Hexenzirkel after marrying her husband and eventually passed away. She passed her title onto her students and followers, none of whom were acknowledged by Alice until Scarlett eventually succeeded her. She went by the codename "J".
A prophetess who studies Teyvat's direction and order. She provides guidance to those in need, but has a habit of speaking directly into people's minds without warning. She goes by the codename "N".
A master alchemist from Khaenri'ah with the ability to create life using the art of Khemia. She is the creator of Albedo, the dragons Durin and Elynas, the immortal monster Bakunawa and the abyssal Riftwolves that still plague Teyvat. She is also implicated in the cataclysm that laid waste to Teyvat 500 years prior to the game's events, making her one of the Five Sinners of Khaenri'ah. In her pursuit of perfection, she merged with Naberius, now carrying out her functions as the Shade of Life. She goes by the codename "R".
Seven Archons
The Seven Archons are the seven gods who preside over the seven regions of Teyvat, established after they or their predecessors emerged as the victors of the Archon War 2,000 years before the main events of the game. Each Archon is associated with an element and an ideal, by which they formed their territories' environment and determined their method of governance over their regions.
The deceased Hydro Archon. Originally a member of the Oceanid species, she was transformed into a human by her predecessor, Egeria as part of her "original sin". After ascending as the Archon, she busied herself in preparing for the consequences of Egeria's actions, which had drawn the ire of the Heavenly Principles, who cursed Fontaine with a prophecy of deluge. As part of her plan spanning centuries, she invited the reincarnated Hydro Dragon Neuvillette to preside over her citizens, hoping he would soften his stance towards humans. She then separated her divinity from her body and spirit, naming the human half "Furina" and instructing her to occupy the seat of Hydro Archon, acting as her and on her behalf for centuries. Meanwhile, Focalors hid inside the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale, a device that converts peoples' belief in justice into an energy source called Indemnitium. Eventually, Indemnitium accumulated enough for Focalors to execute herself in order to return the elemental authority of Hydro to Neuvillette, who, having grown attached to the Fontainians, saved them from the prophecy.
The first Dendro Archon of Sumeru and the predecessor to the current Dendro Archon, Lesser Lord Kusanali/Nahida. During her efforts to contain the Cataclysm, she was corrupted by Forbidden Knowledge, information from the Abyss foreign to Teyvat and thus rejected by Irminsul. Being an avatar of Irminsul, her existence had to be erased from Teyvat by Nahida to completely purify the tree of forbidden knowledge. As a result, Nahida is thereafter believed to have always been the original Dendro Archon, with the only known person who still remembers Rukkhadevata being the Traveler, a Descender unaffected by changes to Irminsul.
The first Electro Archon of Inazuma and predecessor to her younger twin sister, Ei. After her death in the Cataclysm, Ei succeeded her as the Electro Archon.
The first Pyro Archon of Natlan. A mortal champion and outlander, he unified the tribes of Natlan and fought the Pyro Sovereign, Xiuhcoatl, in the Great Volcano of Tollan contemporaneously during the Archon War.[r] After defeating Xiuhcoatl by targeting his weak point, he was "revived from the flames" to become the first Pyro Archon. To avoid the bleak future of Natlan shown to him by Ronova, he made a pact with her and established the unique rules of Natlan that survive to the present day.
Seven Sovereigns
The Seven Sovereigns are the seven strongest elemental dragons of their respective element, and the strongest type of elemental lifeform who ruled the old world and held the seven elemental Authorities, but lost both their status and authorities when the Heavenly Principles came to Teyvat and created a new order over the world.
The Dendro Sovereign, known as the Devourer of Divinity. She hosts an entire ecosystem within her body, which was inhabited by some of Teyvat's first-ever lifeforms. Following the dragon king Nibelung, she attempted to accumulate forbidden knowledge within herself to oppose the Heavenly Principles, but ended up being corrupted by it. However, she survived the conflict and currently resides in the deserts of Sumeru, resenting gods and humans alike.
Nibelung (尼伯龙根; Níbólónggēn)
The Dragon King who ruled Teyvat before the arrival of the Heavenly Principles. He sought to lead his race beyond the borders of Teyvat, resulting in the technological development and advancement of the dragon civilization. At one point, seeking worlds beyond, he created Aria, Sonnet and Canon – the three moons of Teyvat – and raised them from the surface of the planet to govern the planet in his absence, a feat which future dragons tried and failed to replicate. Meanwhile, the Primordial One had established dominion over Teyvat. Nibelung returned during the period tentatively named the Great War of Vengeance, having embraced the power of Forbidden Knowledge and introduced it to the world in an unsuccessful attempt to fend off the invading Heavenly Principles, which emerged victorious and cast down the Divine Nails to purify the Abyssal corruption.
Xiuhcoatl (修库特尔; Xiūkùtè'ěr)
The Pyro Sovereign, who created the Pyro dragons and established the ancient dragon civilization of Natlan, known as Natlantea, with the Sacred City of Tollan as its capital. Being born of phlogiston, a primordial form of the seven elements, he was a master of its usage as a computronium; he created thirteen Sovereign Lords, advanced artificial intelligences to deputize the governance of Natlantea, and as permanent solutions to the perpetuity of the Abyss, he created the Tzitzimimeh, devices of compressed Phlogiston that suppressed the Abyss using mutual annihilation reactions and Huitzilopochtli, an array that could convert all of Teyvat to phlogiston. He modified one of his eyes to create the control centre for Huitzilopochtli, creating his only weak point, which Xbalanque would exploit to defeat him.
Reception
The characters of Genshin Impact have enjoyed positive reception, especially in terms of revenue: as Genshin Impact is a gacha game, much of its revenue comes from sales of in-game currency players use to obtain characters. Most revenue comes from time-limited character "banners". Across all platforms, including mobile, console and computer platforms, the game is estimated to have grossed nearly US$3.7billion in its first year by September 2021, the highest ever first-year launch revenue for any video game.[76][77][78] The mobile version grossed a further US$567million between January and March 2022.[79]
Several of the game's characters have enjoyed massive popularity and have earned millions of dollars in revenue. For instance, in March 2021, it was reported that Zhongli was the game's highest grossing character, with US$15.5million reported in revenue at the time.[80] This number was later eclipsed by the December 2022 release of the Raiden Shogun, whose first banner earned US$9million in two days from Chinese iOS sales;[81] by the time the banner ended, it had netted around US$33million in the Chinese market alone.[82] Shogun's record was eventually broken by the November 2, 2022 banner, which introduced the Dendro archon Nahida and earned US$34million in the Chinese market.[83]
In November 2020, following Zhongli's release in Version 1.1, miHoYo received criticism from fans due to his kit being viewed as underpowered. miHoYo published a blog post in response, writing that the character was working as designed.[84] Later, following more backlash from their post, miHoYo issued an apology and improved the character's kit in subsequent versions.[85] Zhongli remains the only character that has received any changes to their kits post-release.
In March 2023, HoYoverse was criticized following Dehya's release, as some of the game's fanbase argued that her kit was underpowered and dysfunctional, particularly compared to those of lower-rarity characters.[86][87] Several players announced that they had stopped spending money on the game, while others sent feedback to HoYoverse demanding improvements.[88] As one of the few dark-skinned playable characters in the game, some suggested that her poor skillset might be due to colorism, given similar accusations made against HoYoverse in the past.[89] A campaign urging the wider playerbase to press HoYoverse for change trended on Twitter under the hashtag #FixDehya, with many spamming the game's official account.[90]
Allegations against voice actors
In October 2021, Li Yuantao, the Chinese voice actor for Oz, was accused of having multiple affairs. He was also accused of using his fame to manipulate multiple girls into having sexual relationships with him, some of whom were minors. HoYoverse removed his character from the game's rate up system for a year, and replaced him with Zhao Yuecheng.[91][92]
In February 2023, allegations of abusive behavior and sexual exploitation of minors were made against Elliot Gindi, the English voice actor of Tighnari. Gindi apologized for some of his actions but denied the allegations of preying on minors. He was widely condemned by the Genshin Impact community and fellow voice actors, with the voice director of the game, Chris Faiella, seeking to take action against Gindi.[93][94] HoYoverse later fired Gindi for "breach of contract"[95] and replaced him with Zachary Gordon.[96]
In April 2021, some players called for a boycott of the game over claims of bigotry in the game's content.[97][98] Others pointed out how the only playable characters with dark skin at the time were described as "exotic" or "scary" in the game.[98] In August 2022, HoYoverse introduced the nation of Sumeru, a region inspired by Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures. Many of its playable characters and NPCs were depicted as white-skinned, prompting accusations of whitewashing and colorism.[99]
In July 2024, HoYoverse released a trailer of the nation of Natlan, which was inspired by pre-Columbian Mesoamerican, African, and Polynesian cultures. The character designs received criticism for perceived colorism and cultural appropriation, as the majority of the characters are depicted with white skin. Among those criticizing included voice actors Khoi Dao, Zeno Robinson, Jenny Yokobori, Alejandro Saab, Valeria Rodriguez, Allegra Clark, and Anne Yatco, who respectively voice the characters Albedo, Sethos, Yoimiya, Cyno, Sucrose, Beidou, and the Raiden Shogun in the game.[100][101]
Although HoYoverse wasn't listed as one of the companies targeted in the SAG-AFTRA strike, multiple English voice actors in support of the strike stopped voicing their assigned characters as part of an indpendent strike separate from the main strike.[102] HoYoverse responded by switching from Formosa Interactive, a struck studio in the strike, to SIDE Global, which was not struck,[103] as well as replacing various striking voice actors.
In March 2025, HoYoverse announced the replacement of the English voice actor for Kinich, John Patneaude, with Jacob Takanashi as a result of Patneaude withholding his work to support the strike.[104] Shortly after announcing his new role, Takanashi received heavy backlash from other English voice actors, including Kayli Mills and Corina Boettger, with most accusing him of being a scab.[105] Public opinion was initially divided on this issue, with some supporting the voice actors' push for AI protections, and some criticizing the perceived lack of professionalism displayed by the voice actors.[106]
Later, some voice actors came out with concerns on the strike, including Erika Harlacher, who claimed that she had been sent "threatening letters" from SAG-AFTRA and that the voice actors didn't vote on the strike.[107] Meanwhile, Clark and Tergliafera jointly called on SAG-AFTRA to end the main strike, claiming that AAA companies are actively moving out of the U.S. to find other voice actors.[108][109]
Following the main strike's suspension, Sean Chiplock stated that despite the main strike reaching a tentative agreement, some voice actors are still striking against HoYoverse due to the company's non-union status.[110] As a result, HoYoverse has continued to recast multiple voice actors, including Corina Boettger, Kayli Mills, and Valeria Rodriguez.[25][19]
↑ During Masquerade of the Guilty, the Hydro Archon's Divine Throne was destroyed, leaving six Divine Thrones.
↑ His name is inconsistent throughout the game. Fischl's lore depicts it as Ozvaldo Hrafnavins while her English voiceovers depicting it as Ozvaldo von Hrafnavins; the Chinese version of the game depicts it as Ozvaldo Hrafnavines.
↑ Zhao replaced Li Yuantao, the original voice actor, after allegations of infidelity and sexual abuse were raised against him.
↑ Originally solely voiced by Valeria Rodriguez. However, due the 2024-2025 SAG-AFTRA video game strike, she was partially replaced by an unknown voice actor and will be fully replaced in subsequent versions.[19]
↑ Born into the family, but left with her father, Seamus Pegg.
↑ Originally solely voiced by Kayli Mills. However, due the 2024-2025 SAG-AFTRA video game strike, she was partially replaced by an unknown voice actor and will be fully replaced in subsequent versions.[25]
↑ Jung Eui-jin replaced Lee Woo-ri, who was the sole voice actor before his death. Lee's existing voicelines are retained.
↑ After the removal of Rukkhadevata's existence from Teyvat, Nahida is now believed to have always been the original Dendro Archon.
↑ Gordon replaced Elliot Gindi, the original voice actor, due to several sexual abuse allegations raised against him.[40][41]
↑ Furina was created by the Hydro Archon Focalors to impersonate the Archon, thereby preventing a cataclysmic prophecy. Furina was believed to be an Archon by the people of Fontaine, but the end of Fontaine's story revealed the truth. After Focalors sacrificed herself to prevent the prophecy, Furina's childlike temper and irritability decreased.
↑ Including Rhinedottir, who is now acting as one of the four Shades
↑ Originally solely voiced by Corina Boettger. However, due to the 2024-2025 SAG-AFTRA video game strike, they were partially replaced by an unknown voice actor and will be fully replaced in subsequent versions.[25]
↑ Yamaguchi replaced Atsuko Tanaka, who was the sole voice actor before her death. Tanaka's existing voicelines are retained.
↑ The Archon War was a battle among gods, believed to be over the seven divine thrones in Celestia. Natlan was a unique nation without gods and still ruled by dragons—its war was against humans.
References
↑ IGN, IGN (October 13, 2020). "Genshin Impact Review". www.ign.com. Archived from the original on January 18, 2021. Retrieved December 12, 2024.
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