Genshin Impact is set to begin 2026 with a major update. Version Luna IV will release worldwide on January 14, 2026, and it is shaping up to be one of the most content-heavy patches in recent months.
This update brings a brand-new Archon Quest, the much-loved Lantern Rite festival, new characters, fresh weapons, free rewards, and multiple limited-time events. Travelers will have plenty to explore once the servers go live.
Genshin Impact Luna IV Release Date and Time
The Luna IV update will launch globally on January 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM (UTC+8). While the update releases at the same moment for all servers, the local time will differ depending on your region.
Here are the exact release timings by time zone.
Americas (January 13, 2026)
Pacific Time: 7:00 PM
Mountain Time: 8:00 PM
Central Time: 9:00 PM
Eastern Time: 10:00 PM
Europe (January 14, 2026)
Western European Time: 3:00 AM
Central European Time: 4:00 AM
Eastern European Time: 5:00 AM
Asia (January 14, 2026)
India Standard Time: 8:30 AM
Philippine Time: 11:00 AM
Japan Standard Time: 12:00 PM
Korea Standard Time: 12:00 PM
The same countdown also applies to the first phase character banner, which features the debut of Columbina.
What Is Coming in Genshin Impact Luna IV
Version Luna IV introduces a wide range of new content across gameplay, story, and cosmetics.
New Characters
Columbina
Zibai
Illuga
New Weapons
Nocturne’s Curtain Call
Lightbearing Moonshard
Character Banners
Phase One features Columbina and Ineffa
Phase Two includes Zibai, Neuvillette, and Illuga
New Outfits
New skins for Lumine and Aether
New outfits for Neuvillette and Yaoyao
New Story and Exploration Content
Luna IV adds a new Archon Quest titled A Traveler on a Winter’s Night. This quest continues the main storyline and introduces Nod-Krai as a key narrative focus.
A new area called The Lament of the Cliff-Shadowed Hollow will also be available. Players can explore this region, face new enemies, and uncover fresh lore.
A new boss, The Doctor, will challenge high-level players and provide valuable drops.
Lantern Rite 2026 Events and Rewards
The Lantern Rite festival returns with multiple limited-time events, including:
- A Lantern Lit Ode to Silver Moon
- Moonlit Patrol Exercise
- Shutterflash Memory Hunt
- Ley Line Overflow
By participating in these events, players can earn generous rewards.
Lantern Rite Rewards Include
- Intertwined Fate x10
- Primogems x1600
- Mora x80,000
- Hero’s Wit x8
- Dust of Enlightenment x1
- Sanctifying Elixir x1
- Crown of Insight x1
- Resin and Mystic Enhancement Ore
- Talent level-up materials
Players will also be able to select one free four-star character from Liyue.
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