Genshin Impact 7.0 Will Bring Snezhnaya, Shooter Combat, and New Banners
The Aug. 12 update will add a cold survival system, Stellar Swirl reactions, new characters, and livestream Primogem codes.

Genshin Impact Version 7.0 will arrive on Aug. 12, taking players into Snezhnaya with new exploration systems, third-person shooter sections, elemental reactions, and four character banners. HoYoverse also shared three livestream codes: Everwinter, OntoSnezhnaya, and Odette0812.
The update, titled “Everwinter Without Mercy,” will continue the story in Teyvat’s seventh nation. The livestream showed more of Snezhnaya’s storm crisis and the role of the Ruler of Death, Ronova, while also giving players another look at the Tsaritsa.
Here are the main details from the Version 7.0 presentation.
Snezhnaya will put players up against the cold
Snezhnaya will be a frozen region where strong winds can push characters around and low temperatures can become a serious threat. Its cold system will work differently from Dragonspine’s version. Instead of simply relying on environmental heat sources, players will receive a gadget designed to help them stay warm while traveling.

Trains will connect several points of interest across the region and can serve as mobile bases. Each one will include a Firearm Workbench, Crafting Table, and communicator for turning in Daily Commissions.
Players returning after a long break will also have a faster route into the new Archon Quests. The only requirement mentioned is completing the Song of the Dragon and Freedom quest in Mondstadt.
Cryo Traveler will unlock Stellar Swirl
Version 7.0 will introduce Stellar Swirl, a new reaction created when Anemo meets Cryo. The interaction forms a Stellar Vortex that deals Anemo damage. Once the Vortex explodes, it deals Cryo damage, and additional Stellar Swirls can strengthen it while it remains active.

The Cryo Traveler will be one way to trigger Stellar Swirl and other Stellar Glimmer reactions. This version of the Traveler will also wield the Exaiphanes Blade, a special sword that can be upgraded by interacting with more Statues of the Seven throughout Snezhnaya.
Genshin Impact is adding third-person shooter sections
Some Shadow Realm areas in Snezhnaya will introduce third-person shooter gameplay. Players will be able to use firearms, take cover, vault over obstacles, and slide across the battlefield.

The combat will also use the environment. For example, a grenade launcher can break ice and cause enemies to fall. Weapon setups will connect with Genshin Impact’s elemental systems, giving the new mode a familiar layer beneath its shooting mechanics.
Version 7.0 will feature three weapon variants: a Cryo rifle built for precision damage, an Electro rifle with auto-lock, and a triple-element grenade launcher that uses Pyro, Hydro, and Cryo. Aim-assist options will be available, while higher-difficulty stages will offer a tougher test for players who want more demanding combat.

HoYoverse also said that Miliastra Wonderland will support the shooter gameplay in the future.
Odette and Alyosha headline the new characters

Version 7.0 will add two new playable characters. Odette is a five-star Cryo sword user and Prima Ballerina who can trigger Stellar reactions and increase their damage. She will also have an extended dancing idle animation that players can activate with a button press.
Alyosha is a four-star Electro polearm user. His kit will provide a Stellar-Conduct damage bonus, trap enemies, and restore the HP of on-field characters through his Elemental Burst. Players will be able to obtain him during the “Everwinter Without Mercy” Archon Quest after Version 7.0 begins.
Version 7.0 banner schedule
- Phase one: Odette, Arlecchino, and Alyosha with an increased four-star appearance rate.
- Phase two: Flins and Ineffa.
The update will also add craftable weapons, new Battle Pass weapons, artifact sets, and fresh events. The To Temper Thyself and Journey Far feature will include nine new characters whose Constellations can be unlocked.
Genshin Impact Version 7.0 release date and other details
Genshin Impact Version 7.0 will release on Aug. 12. Players who have completed Song of the Dragon and Freedom in Mondstadt will be able to access the new Archon Quests even if they have been away from the game for a long time.
HoYoverse has not announced a release date for the Tsaritsa. The livestream material placed her possible arrival somewhere between Versions 7.2 and 7.4 based on the timing of previous updates, but that window is not confirmed.
What do you think about Snezhnaya’s new combat systems and banner lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow us on X, Bluesky, YouTube, and Instagram.




