How do I unlock the new character hangout events in Genshin Impact?

To unlock new character hangout events in Genshin Impact, you need to follow a series of steps that involve meeting specific prerequisites, completing certain quests, and using in-game resources. Hangout events are special story-driven interactions that allow players to learn more about specific characters, build relationships, and earn rewards. These events are typically unlocked for 4-star characters and are accessible through the Story Quest menu. Below is a detailed guide on how to unlock and complete these events.

First, you need to ensure that you meet the prerequisites for the hangout event. Each hangout event has its own set of requirements, which usually include reaching a certain Adventure Rank (AR) and completing specific Archon Quests or Story Quests. For example, to unlock Barbara's hangout event, you need to reach AR 26 and complete the Archon Quest "Prologue: Act III - Song of the Dragon and Freedom." Similarly, for Noelle's hangout event, you need to reach AR 26 and complete the Archon Quest "Prologue: Act II - For a Tomorrow Without Tears." Always check the event details in the Story Quest menu to see the exact requirements.

Once you meet the prerequisites, you can unlock the hangout event by using Story Keys. Story Keys are obtained by completing Daily Commissions. For every 8 Daily Commissions you complete, you earn 1 Story Key. You can hold a maximum of 3 Story Keys at any time, so make sure to use them before reaching the cap. To unlock a hangout event, go to the Story Quest menu, select the character's hangout event, and spend 2 Story Keys to unlock it. Each hangout event has multiple endings, so you can replay it to explore different storylines and outcomes.

When starting a hangout event, you will be presented with a series of dialogue choices and actions that influence the direction of the story. Pay close attention to the character's preferences and personality traits, as your choices will determine which ending you achieve. For example, in Noelle's hangout event, choosing options that align with her desire to become a Knight of Favonius will lead to a positive outcome, while ignoring her aspirations may result in a less favorable ending. Each hangout event typically has 5-6 possible endings, and you need to complete all of them to fully unlock the event and earn all the rewards.

To optimize your experience, consider the following tips. First, always read the dialogue carefully and think about how your choices might affect the story. Some choices may seem minor but can have significant impacts on the outcome. Second, take note of the character's personality and backstory, as this will help you make decisions that align with their preferences. Third, replay the event multiple times to explore all possible endings and earn all the rewards, including Primogems, Mora, and character-specific items.

Common mistakes to avoid include rushing through the dialogue without paying attention to the character's preferences, which can lead to unfavorable outcomes. Additionally, some players may forget to replay the event to unlock all endings, missing out on valuable rewards. Make sure to take your time and explore all possible storylines.

For team composition, you don't need to worry about combat during hangout events, as they are primarily dialogue-driven. However, if you want to prepare for any potential combat scenarios in other parts of the game, consider building a balanced team with a mix of DPS, support, and healing characters. For example, a team with Diluc as the main DPS, Bennett as the healer and support, Venti for crowd control, and Fischl for ranged attacks can handle most situations effectively.

When it comes to artifacts and weapons, focus on optimizing your main DPS character. For Diluc, the Crimson Witch of Flames artifact set is ideal, as it boosts Pyro damage and increases the damage of elemental reactions. Pair this with a high-damage weapon like the Wolf's Gravestone or the Prototype Archaic. For support characters like Bennett, the Noblesse Oblige set is a good choice, as it enhances the team's overall damage output.

In summary, unlocking and completing character hangout events in Genshin Impact involves meeting specific prerequisites, using Story Keys, and making thoughtful dialogue choices. By paying attention to the character's preferences, replaying the event to explore all endings, and optimizing your team and equipment, you can fully enjoy these story-driven interactions and earn valuable rewards.