Genshin Impact Version 4.8 introduces the new map Simulanka and the five-star Emilie

Genshin Impact Version 4.8 is coming this July 17.

As fans continue to await the big 5.0 update, HoYoverse announced the upcoming Genshin Impact Version 4.8 update that’s coming next week.

Much like any major update for the game, Version 4.8 adds a new five-star character named Emilie, though that’s not the biggest addition. Arguably the most exciting new content in this latest version is Simulanka, a new map that players can explore.

To give you a taste of what to expect, check out the new update’s official trailer here:

Simulanka is a new world featuring several distinct lands that are occupied by an array of unique creatures. There, players can also enjoy seasonal events that feature various mini-games.

For instance, there’s the “Boreal Flurry” mini-game where players can shoot balloons while overlooking Simulanka. There’s also the “Flying Hatter’s Trick” mini-game where the goal is to get as many toy figures as possible, with gameplay that’s patterned after claw machines. Finally, there’s the “Metropole Trials” which will feature combat challenges. By completing these mini-games, players can earn Starsail Coins which can be used to draw various in-game goodies.

There’s also the new five-star character named Emilie who wields a Dendro polearm and can deal extra damage to Burning enemies. Her abilities center around the “Lumidouce Case” which intermittently inflicts Dendro DMG. Enemies that are affected by the Burning effect will receive more damage from Emilie.

This new character and Yelan’s rerun will appear in the latter half of the new version, with the reruns of Navia and Nilou happening during the first half.

Aside from the new five-star, Kirara and Nilou are also at the core of the new version as they get new outfits to explore Simulanka in. Players can recruit Kirara for free by drawing for a certain number of figurines, with her outfit also up for grabs by accumulating “Excerpts of Bliss.” As for Nilou, her new floral-themed outfit will be available in the store with a limited-time discount.

Other additions in Version 4.8 include an optimization to the Encounter Point System where players can store Encounter Points and use them later to claim Daily Commission when they want. Long-Term Encounter Points can also be converted when accumulated beyond the daily limit by completing activities that consume Original Resin.

Finally, the new version will add the “Echo” feature which adds a unique trailing effect while sprinting using select characters. Echoes for Diluc, Qiqi, Kirara, Jean, and Ningguang will be available by completing the “Envisaged Echoes” challenges.

Genshin Impact Version 4.8 will be released on July 17 on PlayStation, PC, Android, and iOS.