Genshin Impact 5.8 finally makes a summer event map permanent, plus introduces the first Nod-Krai character

The Genshin Impact Special Program has come and gone, and it brought us the news we’d been expecting about the game’s next major release. Version 5.8 – dubbed Sunspray Summer Resort – will arrive on July 30.

The new version brings some fresh content to the action RPG, including the first character from Nod-Krai.

The big, non-character new addition in Genshin Impact’s 5.8 update is Easybreeze Holiday Resort, a new map in Natlan. This is a permanent addition to the game’s world, and it’s also where the new seasonal events will take place.

Easybreeze Holiday Resort is an island off the west coast of Natlan, and it’s split into four zones. Resort mascot, Asha, is not just for show; it also plays a key role in how you’re going to explore the place. Some of the powers you can acquire from Asha, like gliding across water, will help you in traversal, while others will make it easier to reveal and solve puzzles.

5.8 also introduces Ineffa, a 5-star Electro polearm user, who has the distinction of being the first playable unit from Nod-Krai, and also the first character to use Lunar-Charged reactions. Ineffa’s event Wish will debut in Phase 1 alongside a rerun for Citlali, whereas Phase 2 is reserved for reruns for Mualani and Chasca.

While Ineffa may be the only new character, Yelan and Bennett are both getting new outfits. Bennett’s outfit is free, while Yelan’s is paid – though it will available at a discount for a period of time.

Beyond the characters themselves, version 5.8 has new narrative and gameplay content. There’s a new Story Quest that sees Bennett, Chasca, Mualani, and Venti all return. Song of the Welkin Moon: Prelude – The Journey Home is the new Archon Quest, and it explains Ineffa’s origins.

Of course, there are new Seasonal Events kicking off with the release of the patch to get stuck in, including new mini-games. In fact, that’s how you’re going to earn Bennett’s new outfit, and there’s a 4-star Claymore – Flame-Forged Insight – to get, too.

Sunspray Spirit is the main currency you’ll earn as you take part in the mini-games, and that’s what you’re going to later use to unlock some rewards. If you’re eager for a challenge, there’s a boss fight that awaits in Mare Jivari, pitting you against Bakunawa.

Checking out our Genshin Impact codes page is always a great idea, and we’ve recently updated our Ifa builds guide, and Escoffier builds guide, too.