Genshin Impact
Developed and Published by miHoYo Ltd.
Producer Hugh Tsai
Composer Yu-Peng Chen
Released 2020
Platforms Android, iOS, Windows, PS4, PlayStation 5
Genre Role Playing Game
Awards
iPhone Game of the Year 2020
Google Play Game of the Year 2020
TapTap Awards Game of the Year, 2020
Rating Common Sense Media says this game is appropriate for ages 10+. The PEGI rating is 12+ due to "depictions of non-realistic looking violence towards human-like characters."
Plot Summary: Genshin Impact is an action adventure role-playing game. It starts when you and your twin unsuccessfully battle some sort of God. After the battle, you wake up alone in a world unknown to you. A fairy-like creature, Paimon, appears to you immediately and explains that she is there to guide you as you start to search for your lost twin. You have many quests to face, obstacles to overcome and challenges are all around. There are many lands and cities you have to traverse through during which you collect different characters whose powers you need to continue.
The anime-style artwork is as beautiful as it is detailed. You can see the breeze blowing through the grass while you are foraging for food and cooking dinner. You will learn how to fly next to a dragon and it almost feels real. I haven't gone further in the game, but I have learned that dragons feature prominently throughout the game.
Critical Evaluation Genshin Impact has a steep learning curve but it's worth the climb. You can easily get lost in that world for hours making discoveries and gaining skills that aid you in your journey. Although there is some violence because you have to battle, it is very stylized and unrealistic. Genshin Impact is free, so it's available to anyone who has access to the appropriate platforms. However, there are opportunities to purchase items with real money, but they are not necessary to advance in the game. Still, it is rare for a game with such an immersive, detailed world and story to be free which makes it more appealing for anyone who wants to play. One criticism I have is that all of the characters appear to be white, so it seems to lack diversity.
Creative Use for a Library Program: This game would fit in perfectly with Dragon week! Game of Thrones, Anne McCaffrey's Dragons of Pern, Tolkien's Smaug would all be featured during the week which would culminate in a Saturday game of Dungeons and Dragons.
Speed-Round Talk: Your twin is missing! Journey through the world of Genshin Impact to find your lost sibling. PS. Watch out for that dragon to your left!
Potential Challenge Issues and Defense Preparation: Anyone who is against gaming or wants to limit screen time might have a problem with this game. And there might be pushback from parents who don't approve of any sort of violence. In its defense, I would say that there are other similar games that are unaffordable to many and Genshin Impact fills this niche nicely without cost. In other words, it democratizes role-playing games by being available to anyone.
Reason for Inclusion: Including this game offers an entryway to sci-fi and fantasy books about dragons. It could be a great way to hook teens onto dragons and introduce them to so many wonderful books.
References
Brereton, E. Genshin Impact App Review. Common Sense Media.
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/genshin-impact
IGN (Producer). (2020). Genshin Impact - Official Launch Trailer. [Video]
PEGI.Genshin Impact. PEGI.info. https://tinyurl.com/bx4bh6jh
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