The wait is almost over! Genshin Impact’s massive Luna IV update drops January 14, 2026, bringing Columbina, new regions, and the beloved Lantern Rite festival back to Teyvat. This version promises to be one of the biggest content drops yet, combining story progression with exciting gameplay additions.
Table of Contents
Genshin Impact Luna IV Release Schedule
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Global Launch Time | 11:00 AM (UTC+8) |
| Pre-Installation | Available now |
| Maintenance Duration | Approximately 5 hours |
| Version Name | Song of the Welkin |
| Major Content | New region, Archon Quest, Lantern Rite |
Regional Release Times
Convert to your timezone for the exact launch:
- PST: 7:00 PM (January 13)
- EST: 10:00 PM (January 13)
- GMT: 3:00 AM (January 14)
- CET: 4:00 AM (January 14)
- IST: 8:30 AM (January 14)
- JST: 12:00 PM (January 14)
What’s New in Luna IV
New Characters Columbina (5-Star Hydro Catalyst) headlines this update alongside Zibai (5-Star Geo Sword) and Illuga (4-Star Geo Polearm). Columbina’s banner goes live immediately upon release.
Story Progression The Archon Quest continues with Act VI “A Traveler on Winter’s Night” and Act VIII “True Moon,” plus the Story Quest “A Lanternlit Ode to the Silver Moon.” These quests advance Teyvat’s lore significantly.
New Playable Area Explore The Lament of the Cliff-Shadowed Hollow, featuring Voidsea Outlook, Wavechaser Plain, and Ashveil Peak. This expansion adds substantial exploration content.
Game-Changing Mechanics The Lunar-Crystallize elemental reaction debuts alongside two new artifact sets—A Day Carved From Rising Winds and Aubade of Morningstar and Moon—offering fresh build options.
Festival Time Lantern Rite returns with events like Moonlit Patrol Exercise, Shutterflash Memory Hunt, and Ley Line Overflow. Special character outfits for Traveler, Neuvillette, and Yaoyao are included.
For detailed character builds and artifact recommendations, explore our complete Genshin Impact guides.
Smart Pre-Launch Preparation
Download the pre-installation package now to jump straight into gameplay when servers open. Stock up on Primogems if you’re pulling for Columbina. Complete current events to maximize rewards before version transition. According to HoYoverse’s official website, maintenance compensation will be distributed to all players.
Phase I Banners: Columbina and Ineffa Phase II Banners: Zibai, Neuvillette, and Illuga
Don’t miss our banner pull strategy guide to optimize your wishes.
Boss Battles & TCG Updates
Face formidable new enemies including Lord of the Hidden Depths – Whisperer of Nightmares and The Doctor. The Genius Invokation TCG expands with Ororon, Skirk, and Consecrated Horned Crocodile character cards.
Miliastra Wonderland introduces a new earnings system for creators and Classic Mode, letting your Teyvat companions join custom stages.
Ready for Luna IV? The adventure begins in just days!
FAQs
Can I pre-download Luna IV before release?
Yes, the pre-installation feature is already available, letting you download resource packages in advance to speed up the update process.
Will my progress transfer to Luna IV?
Absolutely—all your characters, items, and story progress carry over seamlessly when the new version launches.
