Genshin Impact 1.2: Everything you need to know about Dragonspine

Get ready to explore the frozen mountain range of Dragonspine when Genshin Impact V1.2 arrives later this month.

Genshin Impact’s next major update, Version 1.2, is slated to arrive later this month. Developer miHoYo has already previewed a bunch of exciting additions and quality of life improvements the update will bring but as far as new content, there’s a brand new map addition as well.

Dragonspine is a frozen mountain range in the south of Mondstadt and the first major expansion to the map. It’s filled with “new creatures, mysteries, treasures and more” and is likened to a “frozen fortress.” It’s harsh, brutal, icy environment introduces some new gameplay mechanics.

For starters, in addition to managing your HP and Stamina, you’ll now have to pay attention to Sheer Cold. This is another bar that’ll appear above your HP bar once you enter Dragonspine.

This bar will fill the longer you are exposed to the cold of Dragonspine without seeking warmth. Once the bar is filled completely, it will start to drain your health until you die.

You can stave off death by locating heat sources scattered around Dragonspire. This includes finding waypoints, lit torches and cooking pots. The Seelie in Dragonspine will also serve as a heat source, and you can mine Scarlet Quartz, which will temporarily shield you from the cold. Also available is a new crafting recipe for a portable heat source.

Braving the dangers of Dragonspire will result in some valuable rewards. There’s talk of a series of hidden quests that, if solved, will result in uncovering the 4-star claymore, Snow-Tombed Starsilver. Buried within the mountains are special ingredients, minerals, recipes, artifacts and weapons.

Some lucky adventurers will also discover Dragon’s teeth, which can be forged into the powerful Dragonspine spear. Crimson Agate can also be collected and offered to the Frostbearing Tree in return for special rewards such as the Warming Bottle portable heat source and 4-star catalyst Frostbearer.

Accompanying version 1.2 and Dragonspine is the winter event “The Chalk Prince and the Dragon.” If you are Adventure Rank 20 or higher you can participate in this seasonal event.

"In the event’s storyline, you will be assisting the new 5-star character Albedo, Chief Alchemist and Captain of the Investigation Team of the Knights of Favonius in Mondstadt, to investigate Dragonspine and a mysterious, powerful sword called Festering Desire."