Genshin Impact v6.3 launches Columbina and Lantern Rite events

Hoyoverse pushed Genshin Impact version 6.3 (Luna IV) live on Jan 14 after scheduled maintenance, splitting the update into two distinct phases so players can plan pulls and event participation. Phase 1 introduced Columbina, a 5★ Hydro catalyst, alongside a rerun of Ineffa, plus a slate of new activities and compensation rewards tied to the rollout.

The update bundles practical player-facing additions. Lantern Rite 2026 returns as a timed festival with an event window from Jan 30 to Feb 23, offering limited-time content and rewards. Miliastra Wonderland expands with fresh content, including a new Classic Mode for players who prefer a more traditional experience. Login and compensation packages accompanying the patch include intertwined fates, primogems and event gifts intended to offset downtime and encourage participation in the new events.

Hoyoverse structured v6.3 as a two-phase roadmap to stagger character availability and banner pressure. Phase 2, slated for early February, will introduce Zibai, a 5★ Geo sword, plus a new 4★ Geo polearm character, Illuga, and a rerun of Neuvillette. That scheduling gives players a clear window to decide whether to chase Columbina now or conserve resources for Zibai and Illuga next month, and to time their primogem spends around the Lantern Rite rewards and ongoing login gifts.

Maintenance windows were posted by region alongside banner schedules and event details, so players can confirm server timing and plan pulls to avoid missing limited-time offers. The two-phase cadence also helps with resource management: split banners can reduce simultaneous “GAS” driven pulls, and the Lantern Rite event window overlaps Phase 2, creating opportunities to earn free resources before high-cost banners land.

For teams and builders, Columbina’s arrival means Hydro catalyst playstyles get a new 5★ option to test, while Zibai and Illuga will extend Geo roster choices once Phase 2 drops. The Neuvillette rerun gives players another chance to secure or refine that character before the festival peaks. Miliastra Wonderland’s Classic Mode may appeal to players who prefer fewer gimmicks and more predictable rewards.

What this means for players now is straightforward: log in to claim the compensation bundles, check your regional maintenance timing, and decide whether to pull on Columbina or save for the early February lineup. Mark Jan 30 to Feb 23 for Lantern Rite activities and watch for the Phase 2 banner rollouts so you can align your primogems and intertwined fates with the characters you want most.