Unveiling the Originals: Who Were the First Archons of Genshin Impact?
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The world of Teyvat in Genshin Impact is governed by seven powerful deities known as the Archons. But who were the original seven who established the foundations of this world? The answer, based on current in-game lore, points to Zhongli (Geo Archon) and Venti (Anemo Archon). These two are explicitly mentioned as the only remaining Archons from the original group that prevailed after the tumultuous Archon War.
The Echoes of the Archon War
The Archon War was a devastating conflict that shaped the political and geographical landscape of Teyvat. Numerous gods vied for dominion over the seven regions, each hoping to ascend and claim an Archon seat. This war raged for centuries, claiming countless lives and reshaping the world. The victors of this war became the original seven Archons, each granted a Gnosis, a symbol of their authority and connection to Celestia.
Zhongli and Venti: The Surviving Pillars
The game lore specifically highlights that Zhongli, the Geo Archon (formerly known as Rex Lapis and Morax), and Venti, the Anemo Archon (also known as Barbatos), are the only two remaining original Archons. This implies that the other five original Archons either died, stepped down, or otherwise relinquished their positions, their roles being subsequently filled by successors. This also makes Zhongli the oldest known Archon, having ruled Liyue for over two thousand years before relinquishing his Gnosis.
The Fate of the Other Five
While Zhongli and Venti stand as the surviving originals, the fates of the other five are shrouded in varying degrees of mystery and intrigue. We know that the Hydro Archon was replaced five hundred years ago during the cataclysm that also brought forth the monsters of the Abyss, and the Dendro Archon was succeeded by Nahida. Raiden Ei took over the Electro Archon seat following the death of her twin sister, Makoto. The stories behind other Archons, particularly the Cryo Archon (Tsaritsa), are still unfolding, but it’s clear that their narratives involve succession, loss, and potentially conflict.
FAQs About the Original Archons
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the identities, roles, and fates of the original Archons:
1. Who are the current Archons?
The current Archons, as of the latest updates to Genshin Impact, are:
- Venti: Anemo Archon (Mondstadt)
- Zhongli: Geo Archon (Liyue – although he no longer holds his Gnosis and is technically retired)
- Raiden Shogun (Ei): Electro Archon (Inazuma)
- Nahida: Dendro Archon (Sumeru)
- Furina: Hydro Archon (Fontaine)
- The identities of the Pyro Archon (Natlan) and Cryo Archon (Snezhnaya) are currently unconfirmed, but the Tsaritsa is the current Cryo Archon.
2. What is a Gnosis?
A Gnosis is a powerful artifact granted to each Archon, serving as a symbol of their authority and a conduit for elemental energy. These artifacts are believed to connect the Archons to Celestia, the realm of the gods. They also amplify the Archon’s powers, allowing them to shape their respective nations.
3. Is Zhongli still powerful without his Gnosis?
Yes. While the Gnosis amplified his power, Zhongli was already immensely powerful before becoming an Archon. His second story quest demonstrates his incredible abilities, proving that he retains a significant amount of his strength even after relinquishing the Gnosis.
4. How did the original Hydro Archon die?
The original Hydro Archon perished fighting the cataclysm five hundred years ago. She went to Tunigi Hollow where she gave her life, but in the end, she, too, died. From her body, Amrita pool came into existence.
5. What role does Celestia play in the Archons’ power?
Celestia is believed to be the source of the Archons’ power and authority. The Gnosis serves as a connection to Celestia, allowing the Archons to draw upon its power. However, the exact nature of this relationship and the true purpose of Celestia remain shrouded in mystery. The Games Learning Society explores these types of complex narratives and how they contribute to player engagement through games; visit https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for more.
6. Are all Archons benevolent rulers?
No. The Archons vary in their approaches to leadership. While Venti embodies freedom and allows Mondstadt to govern itself, others, like the Raiden Shogun (Ei), initially pursued more authoritarian rule. The Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya, the Cryo Archon, is actively collecting the Gnoses and appears to have her own agenda, which is viewed as potentially antagonistic.
7. What is the Archon War, and why was it fought?
The Archon War was a massive conflict fought thousands of years ago between numerous gods vying for control of the seven regions of Teyvat. The winners of this war became the Archons and were granted the Gnosis. The main reasons for the war were power, control, and the ambition to ascend to a higher position.
8. What is the significance of the seven nations of Teyvat?
Each of the seven nations of Teyvat is associated with a specific element and ruled by an Archon representing that element. These nations have unique cultures, landscapes, and histories, all shaped by the influence of their respective Archons.
9. What is the Tsaritsa’s plan with the Gnoses?
The Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya, the Cryo Archon, is currently collecting all the Gnoses. Her motivations are unclear, but it’s suggested that she is rebelling against Celestia and seeking to rewrite the rules of the world.
10. How does Nahida differ from the previous Dendro Archon?
Nahida, the current Dendro Archon, differs significantly from Greater Lord Rukkhadevata. She was born right after her predecessor died. She is kept hidden from the public eye by the Sages of Sumeru Akademiya, and much about her remains unknown to the people she rules. Rukkhadevata was greatly revered and known throughout Sumeru, while Nahida struggles to gain recognition and respect.
11. Is Raiden Shogun evil?
Raiden Shogun is not inherently evil, but her actions are driven by a desire to preserve eternity for Inazuma. Initially, her methods were considered harsh and oppressive, leading to conflict. However, through her story quests, it’s revealed that her intentions were ultimately for the well-being of her nation, albeit misguided.
12. Is Venti the weakest Archon?
While Venti is not focused on direct rule and prefers to allow Mondstadt its freedom, this doesn’t necessarily make him the weakest Archon. His power lies in his connection to the winds and his ability to inspire and protect his people subtly. Furthermore, the Archons’ strength varies based on their own choices and priorities.
13. Why did Zhongli step down as the Geo Archon?
Zhongli stepped down as the Geo Archon to test the resilience of Liyue and its people, allowing them to become independent of divine intervention. He believed that Liyue had grown strong enough to chart its own course without the guidance of a god.
14. Can Archons die?
The lore suggests that Archons can lose their physical form but are not truly destroyed. When they lose their physical form, they become pure essences waiting for an opportune moment to rise again.
15. Who created the Archons?
According to Gnosticism, Archons were created with the material world by a subordinate deity called the Demiurge (Creator).
Conclusion
The tapestry of Teyvat is rich with history, and the story of the Archons forms a crucial part of it. While we know that Zhongli and Venti are the only original Archons still around (with Zhongli retired), the stories of their predecessors and successors continue to unfold, adding depth and intrigue to the world of Genshin Impact. As we delve deeper into the game’s lore, we can anticipate more revelations about the Archons and their role in shaping the fate of Teyvat.