Genshin Impact for PS4, PC, iOS, Android: how to download
How to get started on the free-to-play game Genshin Impact, which is available for PS4, PC, iOS and Android. PS5 and Nintendo Switch versions are also in the offing.
Since its release at the end of September, Genshin Impact has been a huge hit with gamers, reportedly accruing over 23 million mobile downloads inside its first week.
Created by the Chinese developer miHoYo, the free-to-play action role-playing game is currently available for PC, PlayStation 4, iOS and Android, while future versions are also slated for the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch.
Here's what you need to know to get started on one of 2020’s hottest massively multiplayer online games.
How to download and play Genshin Impact
PlayStation 4
Genshin Impact is available to download for free from the PlayStation Store. All you need to do is wait for the title to download and away you go.
iOS or Android
As with the console version, Genshin Impact can be downloaded from the device’s online store completely free of charge. Those using an Apple device will find it in the App Store and Android users can download it from the Google Play Store.
PC
PC users can download Genshin Impact from the game's official website, which also offers news, forums and information on its 24 playable characters.
Plans for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, but not Xbox
In a recent interview with RPG Site, miHoYo developer Sam Lai revealed that the game will be made available on the Nintendo Switch, but said gamers would have to wait for further news on when it will be released. “The Switch version of Genshin Impact is currently under development," he said. "More information regarding Switch beta testing and launch dates will be announced at a later time.”
When it comes to the next generation of consoles, meanwhile, miHoYo indicated to Twinfinite in September that a version for the PlayStation 5 is due at some point, but that the game is not expected to be developed for the Xbox Series X and Series S. "We have plans regarding next-gen consoles, and we will be announcing them as these plans take shape. We do not currently have plans to release the game on Xbox."
The PlayStation 5 is due to come out on 12 November in certain countries such as the US and Japan, and on 19 November in the rest of the world.
What to expect when you download Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact boasts 24 unlockable characters and seven elements that players can choose to control as they make their way around the fantasy world of Teyvat. Genshin Impact characters are arranged in a tier list that players work their way up as they progress through the game.
The full tier list can be found here.
Although the game is free to download, there are some optional purchases that players can make to add to their gameplay experience. PS4 users can buy the Genshin Impact Starter Pack, priced at $9.99, which includes in-game currency and a number of special items.
For those looking to broaden their horizons, Genshin Impact Battle Passes unlock additional content and special missions that offer exclusive rewards. The monthly passes cost between $9.99 and $19.99 but are not essential to enjoy the game’s central story.