HoYoverse has officially released its first major update of 2026 through Genshin Impact: Luna IV – A Traveler on a Winter’s Night. This large-scale update will be available starting January 14, 2026. It introduces a wealth of new content, ranging from the long-awaited five-star character Columbina to the return of the game’s most iconic annual event, Lantern Rite, celebrating the Teyvat New Year in grand fashion.

In addition, the continuation of the Archon Quest storyline in the Nod-Krai region, a new exploration area, and a variety of free rewards further highlight this update as one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Columbina, the Moon Maiden Who Redefines the Lunar Reaction Meta

One of the biggest highlights of Version Luna IV is the arrival of Columbina Hyposelenia, also known as the Moon Maiden. She is a 5★ Hydro Catalyst character designed primarily as a support, featuring a brand-new mechanic called Lunar Reaction.

Columbina is capable of triggering Lunar Reaction DMG in a coordinated manner even while off the field. Her signature skill, Lunar Domain, grants a significant damage bonus to all Lunar Reactions and provides additional effects such as:

• Extra lightning strikes for Lunar-Charged

• Additional resources for Lunar-Bloom

• Increased Moondrift attack counts for Lunar-Crystallize

Another unique advantage of Columbina is her ability to convert existing reactions—such as Electro-Charged, Bloom, and Hydro Crystallize—into Lunar Reactions. She also possesses the rare ability to revive fallen teammates during exploration in Nod-Krai, making her exceptionally valuable for endgame content.

Lunar-Crystallize and Zibai, the White Horse Adeptus of Liyue

Version Luna IV also introduces Lunar-Crystallize, a new elemental reaction that occurs when Geo interacts with Hydro under specific conditions. This reaction summons three Moondrift entities around enemies, and after activating three times, it triggers Moondrift Harmony, dealing Geo DMG with CRIT potential.

This reaction truly shines with the introduction of another new character, Zibai, a 5★ Geo Sword user known in Liyue legends as the White Horse Adeptus. Zibai can enter a special mode that enhances his Elemental Skill as more Lunar-Crystallize reactions are triggered, positioning him as an aggressive and uniquely designed Geo DPS.

Lantern Rite Returns to Liyue in Grand Celebration

The annual Lantern Rite event returns to Liyue with a new storyline centered on the legend of Zhanzhu the Moon-Devourer and Zibai’s return to the human world. During the event, players can:

• Release Xiao Lanterns with personal wishes

• Collect Fortune Coins from the Auspicious Treasure Tree

• Exchange coins for exclusive rewards

• Enjoy a variety of festival-themed mini-games

As a special bonus, players can obtain a new outfit for Yaoyao, select one free 4★ Liyue character, and earn many additional event rewards.

Free Rewards and Additional Content

HoYoverse is also offering generous free rewards, including:

• 1,600 Primogems via in-game mail

• 10 Intertwined Fates from the login event

• Yaoyao’s exclusive outfit

• Horse mascot cosmetic set

• Various additional rewards from limited-time events

Additionally, a new mode called Classic Mode in Miliastra Wonderland allows players to invite Teyvat characters to perform in stage-based adventures, adding a more relaxed and unique gameplay experience.

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