Genshin Impact is an open-world action RPG designed for touchscreen devices. Players control a party of four characters, swapping between them in real-time to combine elemental abilities and defeat enemies. Exploration and combat are handled through a virtual control stick and action buttons.

The game features a vast landscape to traverse, with puzzles, bosses, and resources to collect. Progression involves obtaining new characters and weapons, which are upgraded through materials gathered in the world. A gacha system, using in-game currency, is the primary method for acquiring new characters and equipment.

Regular updates expand the story and map areas. The game supports cooperative play for up to four players in specific domains and overworld activities. As a live-service title, it requires a persistent internet connection to play.