Genshin Impact Lecture Notes

Overview

• Genshin Impact is a 2020 action role-playing game by MiHoYo/HoYoverse.
• Features anime-style open world, action-based battle system using elemental magic and character-switching.
• It is a free-to-play game with gacha monetization.
• Platforms: Android, iOS, PS4, Windows, PS5, Xbox Series X/S.
• Initially released on September 28, 2020.
• Estimated revenue: nearly $3.8 billion by end of 2022.

Game Setting

• World of Teyvat: Consists of seven nations, each linked to a different element and ruled by an archon (god).
• Main plot: Follows the Traveler, an interstellar adventurer searching for their lost twin in Teyvat, guided by Paimon.
• Inspiration sources: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, anime, Gnosticism, various cultures, and mythologies.

Gameplay Mechanics

• Exploration: Open-world exploration with activities like running, climbing, swimming, and gliding (stamina-limited).
• Combat: Control one of four characters in a party with quick switching for diverse skill/attack combinations.
  • Characters enhanced through leveling and equipment.
  • Bosses and challenges provide resources; completion uses "Original Resin."
  • Adventure Rank affects quest availability and World Level (enemy strength and rewards).
• Multiplayer: Co-op mode for up to four players with cross-platform play.
• Gacha System: Obtain characters through "Wishes" using Primogems, earnable or purchasable.

Elements and Combat

• Seven elements: Anemo (air), Geo (earth), Pyro (fire), Hydro (water), Cryo (ice), Electro (electricity), Dendro (plants).
• Elemental Skills and Bursts: Core combat features with cooldown and energy requirements.
• Elemental Reactions: Combine elements for varied effects (e.g., Hydro + Cryo = Freeze).

Genius Invokation TCG

• A collectible card game introduced in December 2022.
• Turn-based battles with elemental reactions as a mechanic.
• Positive reception as it potentially enhances player engagement.

Development

• Began in 2017 with inspirations from real locations like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
• Developed using Unity engine, with a budget of $100 million.
• Notable for cross-platform play and high graphical fidelity.

Music

• Composed by Yu-Peng Chen from HOYO-MiX, performed by major orchestras.
• Music reflects cultural influences of game regions.
• Received awards and held virtual concerts.

Accolades and Reception

• Generally positive reviews for its open world and combat mechanics.
• Criticism for gacha monetization and endgame content.
• Numerous accolades including "Game of the Year" and "Best Mobile Game."

Controversies

• Censorship issues related to political terms in chat.
• Security concerns over account and data protection.
• FTC settlement for selling loot boxes to children and data collection.

Collaborations

• Multiple brand and event collaborations, including with KFC and Juneyao Airlines.

Future Plans

• Speculated anime project with Ufotable.
• Expansions into comics, toys, and potentially a movie.