The Luna I update in Genshin Impact introduces Aino, a brand-new 4-star Hydro Claymore character. She arrives on September 10, 2025, alongside the start of the new Archon Quest chapter. Aino is a brilliant inventor from Nod-Krai, best known for building the automaton Ineffa and running the Clink-Clank Krumkake Craftshop. What makes her even more exciting is that every player can obtain Aino for free in Genshin Impact.
Unlocking Aino Through the Archon Quest
Aino can be recruited simply by playing through the new Archon Quest called “A Dance of Snowy Tides and Hoarfrost Groves.” This quest is part of the Song of the Welkin Moon Act I storyline. Once you progress far enough into the quest, Aino will automatically join your roster as a permanent party member. You do not need to spend Primogems, pull on banners, or complete special challenges. All you have to do is follow the story and enjoy the new chapter.
This makes Aino one of the few characters in Genshin Impact who are guaranteed for all players, much like Amber, Xiangling, or Collei in earlier regions. For free-to-play travelers, this is an easy way to expand your Hydro lineup, especially if you need a Nod-Krai characters for Flins or Lauma.
How to Get More Copies of Aino in Genshin Impact
If you want to strengthen Aino further, she will also be featured in the Phase 2 banners of Version 6.0, running from September 30 to October 21, 2025. This banner appearance gives you a chance to unlock her constellations in Genshin Impact.
Why You Should Get Aino
Aino is more than just a free character. If you don’t have Nod-Krai characters, you will struggle to do the puzzles in the new autonomous region. Her Elemental Skill summons a device that consistently applies Hydro damage, while her Elemental Burst creates a water-powered gadget that sprays Hydro AoE damage over time.
These abilities make her an excellent Hydro applicator, useful for triggering new Lunar-Charged reactions. She also fits naturally into Freeze, Vaporize, and Electro-Charged team compositions, giving her a strong role even for advanced players. Moreover, being a character from Nod-Krai, she
By progressing through the Archon Quest in the Luna I update, you are guaranteed to unlock Aino for free. For anyone looking to strengthen their roster with a flexible Hydro unit, you don’t want to miss this character at least if you plan to explore Nod-Krai.