What is the Hidden Key in Genshin Impact?
The term “hidden key” in Genshin Impact is not a singular, fixed item but rather a general term often used to describe various quest items that unlock specific areas, puzzles, or storylines within the game. These keys, unlike the more straightforward “Shrine of Depths Keys”, are often tied to specific quests, locations, or mechanics, requiring players to delve deeper into the game’s lore and world to acquire and utilize them. Instead of a single key, Genshin Impact employs a variety of these “hidden keys,” each with its own unique purpose and acquisition method. They are crucial for progression, uncovering secrets, and accessing hidden rewards. To fully grasp what a “hidden key” is, let’s explore the most prominent examples encountered throughout Teyvat.
Types of “Hidden Keys” in Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact features a plethora of these special keys, each with its distinct function. Here are a few noteworthy examples:
The Hidden Key from Chasing Shadows
This specific Hidden Key is obtained during the Archon Quest “Chasing Shadows” in Prologue: Act II – For a Tomorrow Without Tears. It’s found inside a Common Chest located within a hidden room beneath the north-western cliffs of The Narrows in Mondstadt. The key’s location is concealed and requires solving a Triangular Mechanism puzzle while in Whitenight, a unique time-altering mechanic in Enkanomiya. This key is not used immediately but rather acts as a marker for future quests.
The Ancient Key from Dar al-Shifa
Another example is the Ancient Key, which is a Quest Item acquired in Dar al-Shifa, specifically at the location where Razak was situated before his rescue during the Archon Quest “Cry From the Eleazar Hospital” in Chapter III: Act IV – King Deshret and the Three Magi. This key is necessary for the Hidden Exploration Objective “Eleazar Hospital Notes”. Notably, this key is not used directly on a door or chest but is a requirement for the exploration objective, showcasing another type of ‘key’ usage.
The Ancient Key of Liliacruces Forum
This Ancient Key is used in the Aqueous Tidemarks quest to open a locked door in the Liliacruces Forum. Players need to first obtain the Ancient Key, which was previously obtained during the Cry From the Eleazar Hospital Quest. Once obtained the key unlocks access deeper into the Forum area, past some Fontmer Seagrass that needs to be cleared with water blades.
The Secret Room Key in Enkanomiya
This key, specific to the Enkanomiya region, is found within The Narrows. Both the key itself and the secret room it unlocks are located in this region. It’s also tied to the character Adonis, who is encountered during the quest process. The key and secret room are found by navigating a series of puzzles that require the player to alternate between Whitenight and Evernight.
Mysterious Ancient Key
The Mysterious Ancient Key is used at the Shrine of Ancient Tears. The key is placed in the triangular hole in the center of a stone altar, unlocking a hidden burial chamber containing skeletal remains and the journal ‘War Below the Waves’. This key highlights the exploration aspect of these items, with their use leading to more story and background lore.
Fatui Stronghold Key
The Fatui Stronghold Key is obtained by completing the “Rejoice With Me, For What Was Lost Is Now Found” quest. This quest becomes available after completing the Dirge of Bilqis questline. This key is a clear example of keys tied to a specific quest chain and progression.
Ancient Stone Key
The Ancient Stone Key is located within the Tanit Camps after the completion of certain quests. Upon returning to Babel’s usual location, players can find it by investigating a carpet near the walls. This key is not obtained directly through a chest or quest, but through interacting with the game’s environment, underscoring the importance of thorough exploration.
Why These “Keys” Matter
These hidden keys are more than just items; they are integral to the game’s design. They:
- Encourage Exploration: By hiding these keys behind puzzles, time-sensitive mechanics, or specific locations, the game incentivizes players to explore every nook and cranny of its vast world.
- Reward Curiosity: Many of these keys are located in obscure places, rewarding players who are willing to deviate from the main path.
- Advance Storylines: Many hidden keys are tied to specific quests and characters, advancing both major and minor storylines and providing insights into Teyvat’s history.
- Unlock Hidden Content: These keys provide access to hidden areas, chests, domains, and other types of content, providing both rewards and a deeper level of engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is the hidden room in Enkanomiya?
The hidden room is located in The Narrows region of Enkanomiya, and it is specifically tied to a triangular mechanism that players interact with during Whitenight.
2. How do I switch between Evernight and Whitenight?
You can switch between Evernight and Whitenight at will once you arrive at Dainichi Mikoshi and interact with the mechanism in the center of the location. This mechanic is crucial for puzzle-solving in Enkanomiya.
3. How do I get the Lotus Eater quest?
The Lotus Eater is a hidden World Quest in Enkanomiya. It is triggered by activating a series of symbols that spawn Spartacus, who then tasks you with delivering a message.
4. What are Story Keys used for?
Story Keys allow players to unlock Story Quests for various characters in Genshin Impact.
5. How many Liyue Shrine of Depths Keys are there?
There are 10 Liyue Shrine of Depths Keys obtainable.
6. How do you unlock old cabinets in Genshin?
You can unlock old cabinets using Ancient Keys. For example, you need to find an Ancient Key in the underground section of the Eleazar Hospital (Dar al-Shifa) to unlock the cabinet in the floor above.
7. What is the Mysterious Key used for?
The Mysterious Key is specifically used to open Flameheart’s Lair at The Devil’s Thirst.
8. How do you open the last door in the Shrine of Tears?
The last door in the Shrine of Tears is opened by completing The Legend of the Sunken Kingdom quest, purchased from Larinna after collecting each journal.
9. Where is the abandoned hospital in Genshin Impact?
The abandoned hospital is in Dar Al-Shifa. It can be found by looking for a hole in the ground, where a Dendroculus will appear if you have not visited the location before.
10. How do I get the key from Adonis in Enkanomiya?
The key from Adonis is located in The Narrows area, near the TP Waypoint. You will need to start by having daytime to enter the ruin then turn nighttime to proceed into the ruins where he is encountered.
11. What is the best build for Lynette?
The best build for Lynette focuses on her Elemental Burst. Either 4-Viridescent Venerer or 4-Noblesse Oblige are the best options to maximize her burst’s effectiveness.
12. What are ancient keys made of?
Historically, ancient keys were often made of wood or metals. However, in Genshin Impact the composition of these keys is a mystery, adding to their mystique.
13. Are there secret quests in Genshin Impact?
Yes, there are many secret quests in Genshin Impact that are not immediately apparent or part of major quest series. These hidden quests often reward astute players who actively explore the world.
14. How do I access Signora’s domain?
To access Signora’s trounce domain, you need to finish the Archon Quest “Chapter 2: Act 3 – Omnipresence Over Mortals” and be Adventure Rank 30 or higher.
15. Can old keys be reused in real life?
Yes, old keys can be reused in several crafty ways, such as holiday decorations or even jewelry. In the context of Genshin, their utility is strictly within the game itself.
In conclusion, the concept of a “hidden key” in Genshin Impact is not about a singular item, but about a variety of unique quest items, each crucial for unlocking hidden areas, solving puzzles, advancing storylines, and accessing hidden rewards. These keys encourage exploration, reward curiosity, and further enrich the gameplay experience. By understanding the diverse nature of these keys and their corresponding purposes, players can better navigate the vast and mysterious world of Teyvat.