Summary
Recent information from theGenshin Impactbeta servers has revealed that the Spiral Abyss for Version 5.5 could end up being even more difficult for Hydro characters. While the Spiral Abyss inGenshin Impacthas evolved heavily since the game’s launch, it has arguably never recovered from Version 4.1. Hydro was always considered a premium element and has played a pivotal role in several Spiral Abyss eras, from Ayaka Freeze to Alhaitham Hyperbloom, but it wasn’t until the debut of Neuvillette that its dominance in the meta was established.
Neuvillette inGenshin Impactis a premium character in every sense of the word: he has plenty of options for Support but also brings a lot of firepower on his own. Relying on Charged Attacks to deal the bulk of his damage, Neuvillette’s gameplay is simple, and there are several ways that players can build a team around him. It’s no secret that he’s one of the most popular characters inGenshin Impact, as he has already been featured thrice in just a bit over a year since his release.
According to data gleaned via HomDGCat, Version 5.5 will introduce a Spiral Abyss designed to counter Neuvillette. While the exact chamber layout is unknown, it implies that both sides will feature enemies that are either resistant or immune to Hydro damage. This could potentially mean the return of both Hydro Heralds and Hydro Tulpas, which would force players to use Electro orDendro characters inGenshin Impact. It should be noted that the Spiral Abyss in Version 5.5 is rumored to be the most difficult challenge for Hydro characters yet and is likely HoYoverse’s latest attempt to address the powercreep introduced by Neuvillette.
Genshin Impact May Be Giving Hydro Its Biggest Challenge Yet in Version 5.5
Previous attempts have largely been responsible for the increase in hit points across all chambers of theSpiral Abyss inGenshin Impact, as the difficulty of clearing Floor 12 has doubled since Version 4.1. This necessitated the creation of stronger hypercarries, such as Arlecchino and Mavuika, but it would seem that HoYoverse is pivoting in a different direction for Version 5.5. Unlike other gachas,Genshin Impactprides itself on limiting the concept of powercreep, but it’s become clear that Neuvillette has ushered the game into a new era, leaving a few older characters like Ayato behind.
Whilecertain elements inGenshin Impacthave had their rough periods, such as Geo and, most recently, Cryo, it remains to be seen if HoYoverse will commit to lessening Hydro’s presence in the meta. After all, not only does it react with every other element, but it could be argued that Hydro enables the best reactions overall. It’s certainly something for players to keep an eye on after Version 5.5 launches on June 15, 2025.
WHERE TO PLAY
Step into Teyvat, a vast world teeming with life and flowing with elemental energy.You and your sibling arrived here from another world. Separated by an unknown god, stripped of your powers, and cast into a deep slumber, you now awake to a world very different from when you first arrived.Thus begins your journey across Teyvat to seek answers from The Seven — the gods of each element. Along the way, prepare to explore every inch of this wondrous world, join forces with a diverse range of characters, and unravel the countless mysteries that Teyvat holds…
