Genshin Impact's 4.0 Update: Introducing the Arkhe Energy System
Genshin Impact’s 4.0 update heralds the arrival of the Fontaine region, and with it comes a new energy system: Arkhe. This new mechanic will impact how you explore the region and how you take on its enemies, so we’ve put together this guide to everything you need to know about this new energy type.
The Arkhe Energy System in Fontaine
The new region of Fontaine relies on the Arkhe energy system for exploration and combat, so it’s important that you’re up to speed on how this new mechanic works. The Arkhe system consists of two energies – Ousia and Pneuma – which create a unique reaction when they interact.
You’ll find plenty of information on Ousia and Pneuma elsewhere in our Genshin Impact 4.0 preview, but this guide focuses specifically on how the Arkhe system works in Fontaine. Ousia and Pneuma are just one component of the free PC game’s 4.0 update, so make sure you’re up to date with everything else that’s launching in the Genshin Impact 4.0 release date.
What is Ousia and Pneuma Arkhe?
Ousia and Pneuma are two types of energy that you’ll encounter in the new Fontaine region. Ousia is a blue energy, while Pneuma is a pink energy, and they can be found in the overworld. You can also use them temporarily by picking up floating orbs.
There are a number of puzzles and mechanisms in Fontaine that require the use of Ousia or Pneuma energy to activate. Look out for swirling blue or pink rings on the ground that indicate where you’ll need to use either of these types of energy. They’re not related to elemental reactions and aren’t a replacement for elemental energy, but they can be considered as extra abilities that help you navigate Fontaine more efficiently.
In combat, you can use Ousia or Pneuma energy to attack mobs that have a corresponding alignment to one of the energies. Mobs will also have an alignment to either Ousia or Pneuma, which you can identify by the color emanating from the mob. For example, a Pneuma mob will be pink and will be surrounded by pink particles.
You’ll need to use the opposite energy type to attack the mob, as attacking with the same energy type has no effect. For example, attacking a Pneuma mob with Pneuma energy will do no damage, but doing so will break the mob’s Arkhe energy flow for a duration. Attacking a mob with the opposite energy type will break its Arkhe energy flow for a duration.
It’s important to note that Ousia and Pneuma do not lock enemies from being affected by elemental reactions. For instance, using the same Arkhe energy type as a mob has no effect and will not strengthen or supercharge them. However, attacking a mob with the opposite energy type will break its Arkhe energy flow for a duration, so it’s beneficial to use multiple types of energy in battle.
The addition of Ousia and Pneuma in the Spiral Abyss remains to be seen, but we expect them to work in a similar way. The same goes for upper floors, but our Genshin Impact tier list should still serve you well in the future.
That’s everything you need to know about the Genshin Impact Arkhe system. For more Genshin Impact guides, check out our Genshin Impact tier list, where you’ll find all the top-tier teams you need to dominate Fontaine, and all the Genshin Impact enemies you’re likely to face in the new region.
