Genshin Impact players can finally mark their calendars. The highly anticipated Luna IV update, titled "A Traveler on a Winter's Night," will launch globally on January 14, 2026. This major patch serves as the game's first update of the new year, bringing exciting content to travelers everywhere.
A Major Content Drop for Players
HoYoverse has confirmed that Luna IV represents a significant expansion for the popular action RPG. The update will introduce the brand new Nod-Krai Archon Quest, advancing the game's main storyline. Players have been eagerly awaiting this narrative development for months.
Simultaneously, the update will host the long-awaited Lantern Rite festival event. This traditional in-game celebration returns with special activities and decorations that capture the festive spirit. Developers promise this will be one of the most elaborate Lantern Rite events yet.
Generous Rewards Await Travelers
The Luna IV update comes packed with generous rewards for dedicated players. HoYoverse has confirmed travelers can expect multiple free pulls on the game's gacha system. Additionally, everyone will receive a free 4-star character simply by logging in during the update period.
More cosmetic options will become available too. The update introduces several new character skins that players can acquire through event participation or in-game purchases. These visual customizations allow travelers to personalize their favorite characters with fresh looks.
Global Release Timings Across Regions
While the Luna IV update releases simultaneously across all servers, the exact timing varies by region. Players should note these regional release schedules to plan their gaming sessions accordingly.
American Release Times (January 13, 2026)
- Pacific Standard Time (PST): 7:00 PM
- Mountain Standard Time (MST): 8:00 PM
- Central Standard Time (CST): 9:00 PM
- Eastern Standard Time (EST): 10:00 PM
European Release Times (January 14, 2026)
- Western European Time (WET): 3:00 AM
- Central European Time (CET): 4:00 AM
- Eastern European Time (EET): 5:00 AM
Asian Release Times (January 14, 2026)
- Indian Standard Time (IST): 8:30 AM
- Philippine Standard Time (PST): 11:00 AM
- Japan Standard Time (JST): 12:00 PM
- Korea Standard Time (KST): 12:00 PM
Community countdowns have already begun across social media platforms. Dedicated fans are tracking the exact hours until Luna IV becomes available in their respective time zones. The simultaneous global release ensures no region gets early access, maintaining fairness for all players.
What This Means for Genshin Impact Fans
The Luna IV update kicks off 2026 with substantial new content for Genshin Impact's massive player base. Travelers worldwide have expressed excitement about both the Nod-Krai storyline progression and the festive Lantern Rite celebrations.
This update continues HoYoverse's pattern of delivering regular, meaningful content expansions. The company has maintained consistent update schedules since the game's initial release, building strong community trust. Luna IV appears positioned to continue this tradition with its combination of narrative development and seasonal festivities.
Players should prepare their devices for the substantial download this update will require. Clearing storage space and ensuring stable internet connections will help travelers dive into the new content immediately upon release. The Genshin Impact community anticipates January 14 with great enthusiasm, ready to explore everything Luna IV has to offer.