Genshin Impact Leak Reveals New Artifact Sets Coming in Version 5.5

A recent Genshin Impact leak has revealed that Version 5.5 will introduce two brand-new Artifact Sets, one of which features a unique mechanic specifically designed for Cryo characters. Since the debut of Natlan in August 2024, players have eagerly awaited more artifacts, especially after the successful launch of the Scroll of the Hero of Cinder City and the Obsidian Codex. These initial sets were highly valuable, designed to complement Natlan characters and their interactions with the Nightsoul mechanic. However, with the introduction of new characters and an upcoming map expansion, it seems the time has come for Genshin Impact to unveil its second Artifact Domain in Natlan.

Why New Artifact Sets Are Coming in Version 5.5

While previous patches (Versions 5.3 and 5.4) skipped new artifact domains—thanks to characters like Lan Yan from Liyue and Mizuki from Inazuma not requiring them—the growing roster of characters and the next phase of Natlan’s story make fresh artifacts a necessity. With Varesa and Iansan set to join the game in March 2025, Version 5.5 is expected to introduce artifacts that cater to both these characters and other upcoming 5-Star additions.

According to leaker Narc1ssus, the upcoming Artifact Domain will feature two distinct sets: one tailored for Plunging Attack specialists, and another designed around a niche Cryo mechanic. While characters like Xiao will benefit from the Plunging Attack set, it appears the set is primarily crafted for Varesa. Meanwhile, the Cryo set introduces an intriguing mechanic that favors characters who do not rely on Elemental Energy, an ability kit rarely seen in the game so far.

Genshin Impact Version 5.5: New Artifact Set Details

1. Plunging Attack-Focused Artifact Set

• 2-Piece Bonus: Increases Plunging Attack damage by 25%.
• 4-Piece Bonus: When the wielder’s Plunging Attack, Charged Attack, or Elemental Skill hits an enemy, they gain 1/2/2 stacks of “Everlasting Radiance” respectively.

1. This effect can trigger once per second for each attack type.
2. Everlasting Radiance: Each stack increases Plunging Attack damage by 15% for 6 seconds, stacking up to 5 times. Each stack's duration is calculated independently.

Potential Beneficiaries:

This set is likely to become a top choice for characters like Xiao and possibly Gaming. To maximize its bonuses, players will need to rotate between Plunging Attacks, Elemental Skills, and Charged Attacks every six seconds, maintaining all five stacks for peak damage output. Given the emphasis on Plunging Attacks in Version 5.5, it's also speculated that Xianyun will feature prominently on event banners during this patch.

2. Cryo-Focused Artifact Set with Unique Energy Mechanic

• 2-Piece Bonus: Increases Cryo DMG Bonus by 15%.
• 4-Piece Bonus: When the wielder’s Energy is 0:

1. Normal Attack damage is increased by 60%.
2. Elemental Burst damage is increased by 60%.
3. After the wielder’s Normal Attack deals damage, the Elemental Burst damage boost will be disabled for 6 seconds. Conversely, after the Elemental Burst deals damage, the Normal Attack boost will be disabled for 6 seconds.
4. These effects can trigger even when the character is off-field.

Potential Beneficiaries:

Currently, only Skirk is expected to wield the Cryo element in upcoming updates, and this set seems tailor-made for her. The artifact’s mechanics suggest that Skirk may have an Elemental Burst mode similar to Raiden Shogun, relying heavily on both Normal Attacks and Bursts in her rotation. There's also speculation that Effie or Dahlia could be Cryo characters, but the artifact's design aligns closely with what players expect from Skirk, who hails from Nod-Krai. Given Skirk's connection to Tartaglia as his mentor, the synergy between her abilities and this artifact set feels fitting.

What This Means for Genshin Impact Players

The introduction of these new artifact sets in Version 5.5 signals exciting changes for both current characters and those yet to come. The Plunging Attack set will likely redefine team compositions involving characters like Xiao and potentially enhance new characters like Varesa, while the Cryo set brings a fresh mechanic that could shake up how Cryo characters are built moving forward.

With Version 5.5 expected to launch on March 26, 2025, players have just enough time to start preparing for these additions—whether by farming for artifacts or saving up Primogems for upcoming banners.