Should You Play Genshin Impact in 2025?
Genshin Impact remains one of the most ambitious free-to-play action RPGs, with a steady cadence of content updates and a flourishing global community. In 2025, HoYoverse has expanded the game with Versions 5.6 and 5.7, introducing new characters like Dahlia and Skirk, fresh events such as the Operation Downpour Simulation, and a major FTC-mandated overhaul to gacha transparency. While the game’s high production values, cross-platform accessibility, and evolving storyline make it compelling, potential players should weigh the addictive gacha mechanics and ongoing monetization controversies before diving in.
What Is Genshin Impact?
Genshin Impact launched in September 2020 as a free-to-play open-world RPG featuring elemental combat and a “gacha” system for obtaining characters and weapons. It supports cross-platform play on PC, mobile, PlayStation, and Xbox, drawing over 100 million downloads worldwide by 2024. Players explore the fantasy world of Teyvat, unraveling an ongoing narrative through frequent “Archon Quests” and limited-time events.
What’s New in 2025?
Genshin Impact follows a six-week update cycle, with each version introducing new regions, characters, and events. In May 2025, Version 5.6 launched, featuring two playable characters, Escoffier and Ifa, alongside the whimsical Fontaine amusement park mini-event and the Whirling Waltz event. Version 5.7, arriving June 18, 2025, brings 4-star Hydro sword user Dahlia and DPS-oriented Skirk, expanding team-building options and narrative depth. Looking ahead, Version 6.0 is slated for September 10, 2025, promising a new Archon storyline. Additionally, the recent “Operation Downpour Simulation” event underscores HoYoverse’s commitment to innovative challenges with strategic layers.
Pros of Playing Genshin Impact in 2025
Robust, Evolving Content
With nine major updates planned for 2025, the game offers a continuous stream of new quests, regions, and characters; ideal for players who enjoy long-term progression.
Cross-Platform, Community-Driven
Genshin Impact’s cross-save feature lets you switch seamlessly between devices, while a vibrant community on Reddit and Discord provides guides, fan art, and co-op opportunities.
High Production Values
From orchestral soundtracks to detailed environments, the game’s audiovisual presentation rivals many premium titles, making exploration and combat visually and aurally satisfying.
Cons to Consider
Gacha Monetization and Costs
The “wish” system can be prohibitively expensive: guaranteeing a 5-star character may cost up to $475 per pull sequence, as transparently disclosed following an FTC settlement. The developer paid a $20 million fine in January 2025 for misleading gacha odds and must now provide clearer cost breakdowns.
Gambling-Like Mechanics
Studies show that gacha games can foster gambling tendencies, with some players spending beyond their means to chase rare items. Critics warn that the randomized nature of pulls may lead to addictive behavior, especially among younger audiences.
Time Investment
High-level gameplay requires daily login streaks, event participation, and resource grinding, which can feel like a time-sink for casual players.
Should You Play in 2025?
If you value high-quality art, evolving open-world gameplay, and enjoy collecting characters, even at the risk of high gacha spending, Genshin Impact in 2025 delivers an engaging, content-rich experience. However, if you’re sensitive to gambling-like systems or have limited time to invest, proceed with caution. Ultimately, Genshin Impact remains a standout free-to-play title in 2025, but make sure to set spending limits and gameplay boundaries before embarking on your journey through Teyvat.
