Genshin Impact’s Teyvat: A Whirlwind Tour of Real-World Inspirations
Ever wonder where the lands of Genshin Impact get their inspiration? You’re not alone. Teyvat, the game’s world, is not just random pixels. It’s a tapestry woven with threads from Earth. It pulls from cultures, history, and mythologies. Let’s take a tour and explore the real-world inspirations in each nation. Knowing their roots makes exploring them in-game a blast and can even make you sound smarter at gatherings.
Inazuma: Land of Eternity, Echoes of Edo Japan
Let’s start with Inazuma, the electrifying archipelago ruled by the Raiden Shogun. If you’ve visited Ritou or Narukami Island, you’ll feel the Japanese vibes. It’s obvious. Inazuma is rooted in Shogunate-era Japan. Think Edo period, samurai, and isolationist policies – does it sound familiar?
Some may mention Korean influences, but let’s set it straight: Inazuma is Japan. It’s like sushi versus kimchi – both are tasty but different. The architecture, clothing, societal structure, and names all point to the Land of the Rising Sun. Fun fact: The name “Inazuma” is also recognizable if you enjoy Japanese manga and anime. Ever heard of “Inazuma Eleven”? It’s a popular series.
The Grand Tour: Other Nations and Their Earthly Counterparts
Inazuma is just the beginning. Mihoyo, the creators of Genshin Impact, dug deep to find inspiration from global cultures for each of the Seven Nations. Let’s hop across Teyvat and see where else our real world made its mark.
Mondstadt: Ode to Deutschland (and a bit of Generic European Charm)
First stop, Mondstadt. This city of freedom is famous for dandelion wine. Its windmills and medieval architecture scream “Europe.” But listen closely; you’ll hear a distinct German accent in its names. “Knights of Favonius,” “Gunnhildr,” “Lawrence” – all point to Germanic languages and history. Mondstadt proudly shows this influence.
Liyue: China, Plain and Simple (and Delicious)
Next up is Liyue. No hints needed here. Liyue is clearly China. From Jueyun Karst to Liyue Harbor, the Chinese influence shines brightly. Architecture, food, festivals, and mythology celebrate Chinese culture. Exploring Liyue is like taking a visual tour of China without the jet lag.
Sumeru: A Middle Eastern Medley with Egyptian and Mesopotamian Spices
In the desert nation of Sumeru, we find a blend of inspirations. It draws from Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures. Think of Egypt with its pyramids, ancient Mesopotamia with knowledge pursuits, Persia with its empires, and India with vibrant colors. Sumeru combines these threads into a unique nation focused on wisdom.
Fontaine: Bonjour France, and Pip Pip Cheerio Industrial England
Ah, Fontaine, the nation of justice under the Hydro Archon. It’s brimming with French flair. Fontaine takes inspiration from 19th-century France during the Industrial Revolution. Picture Parisian streets mixed with Steampunk vibes. But France isn’t the only muse; elements from Industrial Revolution-era England add further depth.
Natlan: Echoes of Indigenous America, Africa, and Oceania Drumming in the Volcanoes
Natlan remains shrouded in mystery. Its inspirations arise from Indigenous cultures in Pre-Columbian Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Oceania. Ancient civilizations and deep connections to nature emerge here. The name “Ochkanatlan” hints at ties to Mesoamerican legends, creating a wild and untamed nation.
Snezhnaya: From Tsarist Russia to Soviet Chic, with a Dash of Cold War Intrigue
Lastly, Snezhnaya reigns as the icy domain of the Tsaritsa and the Fatui. It clearly draws from both Tsarist and Soviet Russia. Imagine snow-covered landscapes and grand palaces echoing St. Petersburg’s beauty. The Fatui, with their Harbingers, hint at Cold War intrigue in their military might.
Khaenri’ah: Atlantis Meets Norse Mythology in a Subterranean Setting
Now let’s dive into Khaenri’ah, not found on the surface map yet influential in Teyvat’s lore. This lost nation had advanced technology but ended at the gods’ hands. Khaenri’ah merges inspirations of Atlantis, Germanic, and Norse mythology.
The story of a powerful nation sinking into ruin echoes “Atlantis.” Yet its characters and lore pull heavily from Germanic and Norse myths. Names like “Dainsleif,” reminiscent of a legendary Norse sword, illustrate this connection. Khaenri’ah is a tragic blend of Atlantean grandeur and Norse legends buried beneath Sumeru.
Character Origins: A Global Cast Reflecting Teyvat’s Diverse Roots
It’s not just nations drawing inspiration; Teyvat’s characters reflect this global mix too. Take Chiori, the fashion designer from Inazuma who now runs her shop in Fontaine. She shows how cultures blend within Teyvat, mirroring our connected world. Raiden Ei, the Electro Archon, roots strongly in Japanese mythology.
Character names give clues as well. Kaeya’s name has Indian origins; some suggest a symbolic link between Khaenri’ah and Indian culture. Mona claims Mondstadt as her birthplace but might have ties to Fontaine, showcasing diverse origins among Teyvat’s inhabitants.
Fatui: Italian Commedia Dell’arte with a Snezhnayan Accent
The Fatui, stylishly menacing antagonists from Snezhnaya, have military might linked to Russia. However, their theatrical flair mirrors another tradition: Italian Commedia dell’arte. The Fatui Harbingers sport elaborate masks and dramatic personas reminiscent of these troupes yet carry a far more sinister agenda.
Teyvat: More Than Just a Game World, It’s a Cultural Homage
So there you have it. A whirlwind look at real-world inspirations behind Genshin Impact’s nations. From cherry blossoms of Inazuma to windmills in Mondstadt, Teyvat is vibrant and diverse. Its foundation lies in cultures, histories, and mythologies, showcasing creativity and appreciation for human civilization.
With this knowledge, explore Teyvat with a deeper understanding of its cultural echoes. Impress your friends with your newfound Genshin-inspired global knowledge.
