Genshin Impact 2.8 update – Release date, leaks, and more

Genshin Impact 2.7 update will include two new playable characters, Yelan and Kuki Shinobu, Arataki Itto's musical festival event and brand new weapons. Additionally, these characters are set to feature in their respective banners for the update's Character Event Wishes.

Beyond the horizon, Travelers are looking to know more about the subsequent update as they've been several leaks circulating online. We've picked out the top trending leaks regarding the 2.8 update and revealed when it's expected to arrive in Genshin Impact.

Genshin Impact 2.8 update – Release date

According to a blog post from developer HoYoverse, the maintenance period for the 2.8 update is expected to start on 13th July 2022. This suggests that the update will launch on that date as the 2.7 update, Hidden Dreams in the Depths, is expected to run for six weeks.

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The new date of the 2.8 update is due to HoYoverse delaying the 2.7 update from its scheduled April release. While we have no confirmation yet from the developer as to how the 2.8 update will run, thanks to multiple leaks, we have an idea of what we can expect in the forthcoming update.

Genshin Impact 2.8 update – Leaks

While various leaks suggest what may be included in the 2.8 update, what is confirmed is a new playable character. On 16th May 2022, HoYoverse announced the next playable character, Shikanoin Heizou, via their social media channels with an eloquent introduction from Kamisato Ayato, which should give Travelers an idea about the character's personality.

"Doushin Shikanoin has admirable wit and insight. While he is unfettered and unrestrained in demeanor, one should not dismiss his talents. The Tenryou Commission is incredibly fortunate to have such a man in their ranks." - Kamisato Ayato#GenshinImpactpic.twitter.com/lM0HNfZktr

— Genshin Impact (@GenshinImpact) May 16, 2022

"Doushin Shikanoin has admirable wit and insight. While he is unfettered and unrestrained in demeanour, one should not dismiss his talents. The Tenryou Commission is incredibly fortunate to have such a man in their ranks."

Heizou is a young, free-spirited detective for the Tenryou Commission who'll join Venti, Xiao, and Kazuha as the next Anemo character. While details are still unclear as of writing, according to a notable Genshin Impact source, Lumie, Heizou is rumoured to wield a catalyst as his preferred weapon.

Another notable Genshin Impact source, Ubatcha, revealed that there might be incoming skins for Diluc and Fischl in the 2.8 update. This rumour dates back to December 2021 before it gained attention in February 2022, when we first reported on this leak.

We don't know what the skins will eventually look like, but Diluc and Fischl mains have been long-awaiting the arrival of these skins. Additionally, these skins are rumoured to be acquired through specific events added in the 2.8 update, which suggests these characters will feature.

Speaking of Diluc and Fischl, another source Genshin Intel teased that one of their skins is poised at being a free reward from an event, while the other will require Genesis Crystals to acquire. It's been hinted that Fischl's skin may be the free reward, but details on the event remain unclear.

The same source also suggested that there may be a free character available in the 2.8 update, which as with past events, can be redeemed. They teased that you can earn an event-exclusive currency, which can be used to acquire Fischl for free, which Project Celestia also confirmed.

A quick overview of 2.8:

1. Islands rerun, Dreamlike Visions event (Echoing Tales v2) w/ Fischl skin (4★)
2. Diluc lore, Diluc skin (5★), Secret War event (dungeon battles at Dawn Winery)
3. Heizou hangout
4. Kazuha Chapter I
5. Evermotion Mechanical (jigsaw puzzle minigame)

— Genshin Intel (@Genshin_Intel) May 17, 2022

Genshin Intel also leaked some details regarding possible events in the 2.8 update. According to them, Heizou might be gaining a Hangout event with Kaedehara Kazuha receiving the first chapter in his Story Quest, which details for Kazuha's Story Quest,  titled "Acer Palmatum Chapter: Act I", were leaked.

Much of the information provided has yet to be confirmed by HoYoverse as of writing. We advise all Travelers to proceed with caution regarding these leaks until an announcement has been made.

For future announcements on the 2.7 update and beyond, check out our section dedicated to Genshin Impact news, guides, features, and more and our Genshin Impact Twitter account.

Featured image courtesy of HoYoverse.