In the 4.0 update of Genshin Impact, players were treated to a plethora of new features, but among them, perhaps the most attention was given to the diving mechanic. Diving not only allows players to figuratively and literally immerse themselves in the beauty of Fontaine's waters, but also to discover treasures hidden, as is fitting for canonical treasures, in chests.

In this article, we will explore all the distinctive features of diving in Genshin Impact: how to learn it, how to use it, and why to use it.

Learning Diving in Genshin Impact

No quests, no licenses, no hassle. To unlock the swimming ability, you simply need to activate any of the Hydro Archon Statues: most likely, this will be the one located in the port area.

How Diving Works in Genshin Impact: Basic Controls

You can dive only in "special water" areas (in version 4.0, this is the entire Fontaine region). The height from which you jump into the body of water doesn't matter. Not only will you not get hurt, but you will also immediately start swimming. However, for those who prefer the calmer approach of staying on the surface, the game provides two buttons. One for standard swimming and a new one for diving (default key on computers is Ctrl).

Left Mouse Button (LMB) (or normal attack) changes to a similar action, but with the ability to interact with some local inhabitants' abilities (these are highlighted among their kin with a bluish glow). There are two variations of clicking, short press and aimed press.

Abilities:

- Heavy Shield. Obtained from Xenochromatic Crabs. Creates a shield with two click variations: holding the button allows you to "parry" incoming enemy attacks, strengthening your final hit. When used with attacks, it creates shockwaves that break nearby rocks.

- Fontaine's Blade. Obtained from Xenochromatic Swordfish. Launches a blade that cuts through seaweed. Also has a aimed press variation.

- Sound Wave. Obtained from Xenochromatic Puffball Fish. Detects treasures nearby. Holding down the button emits vibrations in the chosen direction.

Elevation and Descent Keys (spacebar and left Ctrl, respectively). If you're close enough to land, you can perform a quick ascent, propelling yourself out of the water like a "dolphin." Stamina is consumed when using acceleration. If you fully deplete this precious resource, don't worry: unlike regular swimming, your character won't die, but will only slow down, and after a short while, they'll regain their normal speed. This stamina is the only limitation, as there's no pesky "oxygen meter" concept.

Switching characters is done freely. 

Diving in Genshin Impact: Additional Mechanics

- Restoration Spheres. Objects that restore HP and stamina when approached. 

- Currents and Turbulence Rings. Alternative sprinting methods for acceleration.

- Echoing Conches. Reveal hints for puzzles.

- Marvelous Floating Sphere and High-Pressure Water Spout. Components of those mysterious puzzles. The latter can be neutralized using the "Heavy Shield" ability.

I hope this guide helps you navigate the new mechanics of the intricate Hydro region. Good luck with your exploration, travelers!