Genshin Impact — Mobile Open World RPG: Is It Worth Playing in 2025?

Since its initial release, Genshin Impact has remained one of the most popular action role-playing games available on mobile devices. Developed by the Chinese studio HoYoverse (formerly miHoYo), the game continues to expand its universe with regular updates and region unlocks. But with a crowded market in 2025, how does Genshin Impact stand up today, and is it still worth your time?

Gameplay Evolution and Major System Improvements

Genshin Impact has significantly evolved since its debut in 2020. As of February 2025, players can explore seven distinct regions, each with its own culture, storyline, and elemental focus. The recent addition of Natlan has introduced new combat mechanics tied to the Pyro element, while expanding the lore of Teyvat further.

The combat system, which relies on real-time elemental interactions, has seen refinements to animations, targeting, and cooldown pacing. A major overhaul of the relic and artefact system in late 2024 has also made gear optimisation more rewarding and less reliant on random outcomes.

Another highlight is the cross-platform play and progression. Whether you play on iOS, Android, PC, or PlayStation, your progress is synced through your HoYoverse account. This flexibility remains one of the strongest aspects of the game in 2025.

Accessibility and Interface Enhancements

For new players joining in 2025, Genshin Impact offers a much more welcoming user experience. Tutorials have been streamlined, inventory management is more intuitive, and the in-game map features better pathfinding options. The new “Guided Journey” system helps players track Archon quests and world events more efficiently.

Language support has also expanded, including improvements in voiceovers for multiple regions and better subtitles for localised versions. This makes the game more approachable to global audiences, especially in mobile markets like Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia.

Additionally, the game’s performance on mid-range devices has improved. HoYoverse introduced a Lite Mode update in early 2025, reducing visual load and storage requirements while retaining key gameplay elements. This has allowed more users to join the Genshin community from a wider range of smartphones.

Events, Monetisation, and Player Engagement

In-game events remain a major driver of player retention. The Lantern Rite Festival, Windblume, and flagship anniversary events continue to bring temporary quests, mini-games, and unique characters. These events are timed well and provide a balance between free rewards and paid incentives.

As of February 2025, Genshin Impact maintains its gacha-based monetisation model. Players use Primogems to pull for weapons and characters via banners. The “Pity” and “Soft Pity” mechanics are still in place, though the introduction of the Epitome Path in weapon banners has made targeting specific weapons slightly more predictable.

Despite being a free-to-play title, Genshin Impact doesn’t force purchases. The Battle Pass and Welkin Moon subscription are optional and provide decent value. HoYoverse has also taken steps to comply with consumer protection laws in the EU and UK, displaying drop rates transparently and limiting spending options for minors.

Community and Creator Ecosystem

Genshin’s fan base remains massive. As of February 2025, the game boasts over 70 million monthly active users globally. The creator ecosystem is thriving, with YouTubers, Twitch streamers, and TikTok creators covering everything from speedruns to lore theories and daily challenges.

The game’s official social media channels regularly interact with fans and preview upcoming content. Players also benefit from community-driven resources like the Genshin Wiki, Honey Hunter, and interactive map tools, which make exploration and team-building easier.

In 2024, HoYoverse introduced a Creator Partner Programme which offers early access to content and exclusive in-game rewards to community leaders. This initiative has helped strengthen trust and communication between developers and players.

Is It Still Worth Your Time in 2025?

Genshin Impact remains one of the most polished and content-rich RPGs available on mobile. Its blend of exploration, deep storylines, character variety, and regular updates keeps the experience fresh even for long-term players. The ability to play across platforms further enhances its appeal.

For newcomers, 2025 is a great time to start. New-player bonuses, enhanced guidance systems, and a more forgiving early-game curve reduce the learning barrier that once existed. There’s also the flexibility to play casually or engage more competitively with Spiral Abyss content and timed challenges.

The only consideration is the gacha system, which may not appeal to everyone. However, many players enjoy the game purely through free characters and earned resources. The monetisation is designed more for convenience than necessity, which supports fair long-term engagement.

Final Thoughts and Long-Term Potential

As the game approaches its fifth anniversary, HoYoverse has shown strong commitment to both innovation and community support. The upcoming Celestia region and expected storyline resolutions suggest the narrative arc is entering its most exciting phase.

Genshin Impact offers depth for lore enthusiasts, creativity for builders, and adventure for explorers. Even with new competitors emerging in the mobile RPG space, it continues to set the standard for the genre.

In 2025, Genshin Impact is not just relevant — it remains one of the most rewarding mobile RPG experiences available today. Whether you’re in for an hour or hundreds, there’s always something waiting in Teyvat.