Master Genshin Impact with Our Comprehensive Starter Guide

Genshin Impact, the open-world RPG sensation, has taken the gaming world by storm since its launch on PC, PS4, and mobile devices. With its vast world and numerous systems to learn, it can be quite overwhelming for new players. Our comprehensive starter guide will help you hit the ground running and make the most out of your Genshin Impact experience.

Understanding Genshin Impact

At its core, Genshin Impact is a free-to-play online-RPG featuring cooperative play. It throws players into a world teeming with elemental magic, populated by a diverse range of colorful characters. The combat system allows you to form parties of characters, which you can interchange on the fly to create powerful combos using their unique abilities. Although it bears some resemblance to games like Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Genshin Impact has enough distinct features and mechanics to stand on its own.

Choosing the Right Platform

The first question you might have is which platform to play on. PC currently offers the smoothest experience with better graphics, and your PC account can be accessed on mobile (iOS/Android) devices too. PlayStation 4 uses a separate server and doesn’t allow cross-saving, but you can still enjoy cross-platform co-op, as long as you’re in the same region. A Switch version is also coming in the future, but no release date has been set yet. The choice ultimately depends on your preferred controls and convenience, but the PC version is highly recommended.

Starting Your Adventure

Once you’ve landed in Monstadt, the best course of action is to follow the main quests. This will grant you your first four characters and increase your Adventure Rank, which unlocks more content. Focus on leveling a few characters at first to stay competitive against mobs during exploration. Upgrade your weapons and artifacts for increased damage and bonuses, and prepare to leave no stone unturned in your explorations.

Stamina, Adventure Rank, and Characters

Stamina is an essential resource that allows you to run, climb, swim, and glide. It can be increased by visiting and worshiping Statues, acquiring Anemoculus, and elemental items found throughout exploration. Adventure Rank (AR) serves as your account level, and you can earn AR experience through various quests. Higher AR unlocks benefits, such as co-op play and more challenging daily commissions.

You can gain characters through the main questline and the Wish system. The Wish system requires a currency called Primogems, which can be earned in multiple ways or purchased with real money. As you unlock more characters, you can experiment with their elemental abilities to create powerful combos during battles.

Managing Loot and Cooking

Genshin Impact rewards players who collect loot and hoard materials. You’ll need duplicate weapons, ingredients, and artifacts for upgrades, so make sure you pick everything up during your adventures. Be mindful of artifacts and their set bonuses, and utilize duplicate artifacts to upgrade your current artifacts for each character.

Cooking is another crucial aspect of the game. Be sure to collect ingredients and learn new recipes to create meals that heal, buff, or resurrect your characters. Pay attention to character-specific bonuses when cooking, as well as the contents of your Adventurer Handbook and daily events to maximize your rewards and progression.

With this comprehensive starter guide, you’ll be well-prepared to dive into the magical world of Genshin Impact. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your tips with fellow travelers in the comments below!