Genshin Impact 4.0’s Pneuma and Ousia system has finally been revealed by developer HoYoverse, following a series of leaks ahead of the version’s official release later in August. The new update will finally introduce players to the region of Fontaine, also known as the Nation of Justice. This fifth major region in Teyvat is led by the Hydro Archon, Focalors, which has been teased previously but has now been confirmed to have a mortal vessel called Furina.

The introduction of the new region will also prompt the addition of new and exclusive gameplay mechanics. The main one is underwater exploration, which will play an immense part in the area’s gameplay. The other important gameplay mechanic being added with Fontaine is Genshin Impact’s Pneuma and Ousia system. This feature was present in the many Genshin Impact 4.0 leaks and is said to be related to the region’s rival factions. It does, however, play a very considerable part in combat.

Related: Genshin Impact 4.0 - Release Date, New Characters, Banners, & Fontaine Info

What Are Pneuma & Ousia In Genshin Impact

Pneuma and Ousia in Genshin Impact 4.0 are part of a Fontaine-exclusive energy system called Arkhe. This system consists of two opposing types of energy, namely Pneuma and Ousia. When these energies interact with each other, an Annihilation reaction will occur, which then produces a new type of energy, which can then be used for various purposes. The Clockwork Mekas and other structures in Fontaine are powered by the Arkhe system. This should not be confused with Indemnitium, another energy source in Fontaine used to power other resources in the city, such as lighting and transportation, that has no practical use in combat.

How Pneuma & Ousia Work In Genshin Impact’s Combat System

The opposing forces of Pneuma and Ousia in Genshin Impact 4.0 have a practical use in the game’s combat, exclusively within the Fontaine region and only with Fontaine characters. It is not vital to the general experience such as Elemental Reactions, so players are not obliged to use them to explore Fontaine. They do, however, provide some advantages. During the 4.0 livestream held on the official Genshin Impact channel on Twitch, the combat designer known as Aquaria cited an example, explaining that the Assault Specialist Mek opponent has two distinct modes: the defensive mode is imbued with Ousia, while the offensive-suppressive mode is imbued with Pneuma.

By using Lyney’s Pneuma attacks on the defensive Ousia-aligned mode, players can interfere with the opponent’s power system, swiftly staggering them. When it is in its offensive Pneuma-aligned mode, Lynette’s Ousia attacks can grant the same effect. This reaction can also make them change modes, which can be used tactically to one’s advantage. The usage of Pneuma and Ousia in Genshin Impact 4.0’s Fontaine is not necessary, though it does add depth to the gameplay system by offering different approaches to the region’s enemies.

A few previous Genshin Impact 4.0 leaks also suggest that the Pneuma and Ousia alignment that characters have will also generate a special visual effect on certain weapons that exist in Fontaine. Depending on who is wielding it, for instance, a regional sword can emanate a bright light or a dark energy. Pneuma and Ousia will also be used to solve puzzles in Fontaine. Some new torches and blocks, for example, will be infused with a certain energy, and players will have to use the opposing force to trigger Annihilation reactions and open up new paths.

Players may need a few Fontaine characters to be able to solve some puzzles scattered across the region. Luckily, they will be granted a free Lynette in Genshin Impact 4.0, which bestows upon them a character with Ousia powers. The Pneuma and Ousia system in Genshin Impact should be expanded as the game continues to receive updates in Fontaine, including new characters and opponents to face.

Source: Twitch/Genshin Impact