Genshin Impact Version version 7.0 update ‘Everwinter Without Mercy’ launches August 12

Teyvat is expanding to its seventh major nation on August 12, 2026, when developer miHoYo launches Genshin Impact Version 7.0, titled "Everwinter Without Mercy." According to Gematsu, "The version 7.0 update for Genshin Impact, dubbed 'Everwinter Without Mercy,' will launch on August 12, developer miHoYo announced."

The major expansion officially opens Snezhnaya, giving players their first opportunity to explore Teyvat's frozen realm while introducing specialized traversal mechanics, survival tools, story progression, and roster additions.

Exploring Teyvat's Seventh Nation

Snezhnaya is described as a "vast and mysterious frozen world," marking a major territorial addition to the open-world RPG. As Teyvat's seventh nation, it introduces fresh environmental conditions shaped by extreme cold and frozen landscapes.

To aid in travelling across the icy terrain, Version 7.0 introduces a dedicated train system. Players can board these trains to navigate throughout Snezhnaya, offering a distinct method of fast movement across the new region.

Trains, Survival Tools, and Ice Constructs

Upon arriving in Snezhnaya, players will obtain a new multipurpose tool called the Eye of Graeae. The tool plays a central role in both world interaction and surviving the harsh environment, serving three primary functions:

• Cold Protection: Offers essential defense against Snezhnaya's severe cold weather.
• Train Summoning: Grants players the ability to summon trains for faster traversal throughout the nation.
• Prime Ice Constructs: Allows players to fabricate specialized ice structures, which are used to solve environmental puzzles and interact with other players in the game world.

While miHoYo has confirmed these primary functions for the Eye of Graeae, the complete extent of its features remains unannounced.

Archon Quest and New Roster Additions

Alongside the regional release, Version 7.0 advances the overarching narrative with a new Archon Quest. The upcoming story content focuses on the intricate relationships and escalating tensions between Teyvat's various factions.

The update will also add two new characters to the game's roster. However, miHoYo has not yet revealed specific details regarding their names, elemental affinities, weapon types, or combat abilities.

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• Gematsu
• Gematsu Hero image: https://www.gematsu.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Genshin-Impact_2026_07-31-26_034.jpg