Genshin Impact has just aired its livestream revealing its most significant addition to the game since launch, which will arrive close to a year after its release last fall. That would be the expansion into a new zone, Inazuma, home of the Electro Archon Baal, and we got our first official look at what that’s going to contain, outside of an endless stream of leaks and teases we’ve gotten so far.
Here are the highlights about what’s coming from today’s livestream, which will be uploaded to YouTube in full in a few hours.
Might as well start with the Gift Codes from the stream, right?:
GBNA9J5H9Y4H – Primo 100 + Hero’s Wit 5x
AS6BQKLY9GLD – Primo 100 + Mystic Ore 10x
LS6T4L9ZZ7TH – Primo 100 + Mora 50k
Now for the rest:
The release date for 2.0 and Inazuma is July 21, 2021
Inazuma is much larger and more dense than Dragonspine and the Golden Apple Archipelago, and required a lot more work. It contains many more types of world puzzles that we’ve seen previously, many of them electro-based, as electro has been integrated into the landscape.
The gameplay of electro will be expanded past the supercharge and overload aspects we’ve seen so far.
A brief example of a side story was given where the owner of a local Inazuma teahouse is a Shiba Inu named Tarouamru who forces people to work for him forever.
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It’s the only one of the seven nations located entirely in the ocean as an archipelago, it has six main islands in total.
A driving force of the plot is why the electro archon is now pursuing the goal of “eternity” for the nation.
The island nation is split into multiple factions. Watatsumi Island is home to a resistance group pushing back against the stripping of visions by the archon.
Inazuma has three main “commissions” – military and security, finance and customs, and shrines, festivals and events.
Naku Weed and Sakura Bloom are two new electro-based plants to collect.
A sacred Sakura tree in the shape of a fox represents protection over the whole island. Technically it’s one tree that is the root of an entire forest in the nation.
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The Raiden Shogun faced a huge serpent and killed it with a slash that cut an entire island in half, a gorge which is one of the major landmarks of the region. The serpent and its remaining influence on the island will be a plot point and source of some quests relating to mining and swordmaking.
Ayaka, the upcoming cryo sword-user is the daughter of the clan leaders and a beloved figure in Inazuma by the public. She’ll be the first character to appear in the main story quest.
Yoimiya (pyro bow-user) is not in any of the commissions, but owns a fireworks store. She explores “hopes and emotions” related to people when they shoot off fireworks and is a very emotional person. Even the Raiden Shogun likes her fireworks. She’s good with children, is very chatty and gets along with everyone. She is also a part of the main Archon Quest storyline. Ayaka and Yomiya also have their own individual story quests.
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Sayu (anemo claymore-user) is a ninja who is kind of lazy and always tired. She’s small and wants to be taller like everyone she knows. She thinks sleeping will help you grow taller, which is why she’s always seeking out sleep.
They showed off a whole bunch of future heroes that will be coming to the game in future updates past 2.0. They previewed Raiden Shogun, Baal (electro).
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Thoma, with a mystery identity (possibly pyro).
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Kujou Sara, loyal to the Raiden Shogun and charistmatic general (electro).
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Military advisor Sangonomiya Kokomi (hydro).
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Gorou is the “brawn” and may be a resistance fighter (not clear on vision, geo or anemo?).
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Yae Miko is intelligent and cunning and meets with the Traveler many times in the story (electro)
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Inazuma is designed in “three levels” which contain higher up areas in the mountain, ground level for towns and the shore, and then there are vast underground areas full of secrets. They used Studio Ghibli as a big design inspiration for a lot of the areas and colors. One island is overgrown and covered in “Thunderbird feathers.” Another is constantly surrounded by a raging thunderstorm.
They gave an overview of all the events that are coming over the course of 2.0, most of them new, and one that gives you a free copy of Beidou.
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Finally, in the wrap-up:
The Serentiea Pot is getting a gardening system where you can plant seeds and grow things.
There are new monsters including different variants of Ruin Guards called Ruin Sentinels, which come in many different forms. There are also new human enemies that seem to be replacing the Fatui and Treasure Hoarders. Some new Fatui members appears however, like a new hydro woman called a Mirror Maiden.
Ayaka is the first banner and Yoimiya and Sayu are in the second banner. There are five new Inazuma-based four star weapons to forge. And two new five star Inazuma electro-based weapons. There’s a new weapon wish system coming where you can work toward your “chosen weapon” and eventually buy it if you don’t get it through wishing.
There are two new artifact sets, one focused on energy recharge, one focused on attack and elemental skill. You can now sacrifice 3 5 star artifacts to a new system that lets you target other new artifacts.
Cross save is coming to PlayStation and mobile/PC in 2.0 with linking deatils to follow.
They are planning content for five years or “even longer.”
Whew, that’s a lot. I’ll add any more if I come across stuff I may have missed while writing this live.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
