What is Pneuma, Ousia, and Arkhe in Genshin Impact?

Understanding the Arkhe System in Genshin Impact’s Fontaine

The world of Genshin Impact continues to expand with the introduction of Fontaine, adding new dimensions to the game’s diverse combat system. One of the key features in this update is the “Arkhe” system, a unique form of energy exclusive to characters from Fontaine. The Arkhe system presents itself in the form of two types of energy flowers known as Pneuma and Ousia. If you’ve been using Fontaine characters like the Hydro Traveler, you may have already noticed their ability to utilize Pneuma and Ousia in their attacks. But what exactly are Pneuma, Ousia, and the Arkhe system in Genshin Impact?

Explaining Pneuma and Ousia in Genshin Impact

Pneuma and Ousia are described as the fundamental properties found in the life forms, earth, air, and water veins of Fontaine. The collision of energies with different properties leads to both annihilation and the production of even greater energies. However, when it comes to Genshin Impact, the crucial aspect of Pneuma and Ousia attacks is how they interact with specific enemies within the game. For instance, when facing the new “Mek” enemies, utilizing Pneuma or Ousia attacks can disable them, giving you a significant advantage in battle.

Screenshot by PC Invasion

When facing a Mek enemy, it is crucial to pay attention to their Arkhe alignment. A Mek enemy with a purple glow is Ousia-aligned, while a Mek enemy with a yellow glow is Pneuma-aligned. To gain the upper hand against these enemies, you must use attacks with the opposite Arkhe energy to Overload them and decrease their energy. For example, hitting an Ousia-aligned enemy with a Pneuma attack will cause an Overload effect, and vice versa.

Genshin Impact Arkhe System 2

Screenshot by PC Invasion

You can tap into the power of the Arkhe system even without having a character with these unique capabilities. While exploring Fontaine, keep an eye out for objects called Pneumousia Blocks. Interacting with these blocks will imbue your next attack with the power of a Pneuma or Ousia attack, depending on the block’s color. (Interacting with a purple Pneumousia Block will result in an Ousia-imbued attack, and vice versa.)

Genshin Impact Arkhe System 3

Screenshot by PC Invasion

During your exploration of Fontaine, you may come across various Pneuma and Ousia-related puzzles. The general rule for these puzzles is to strike them with an Arkhe attack that corresponds to the opposite element. For example, if you encounter a yellow Pneuma relay, use an Ousia attack to solve it.

Characters with Pneuma and Ousia Attacks in Genshin Impact

In the newly introduced Fontaine, characters capable of Arkhe attacks are limited. Presently, the following characters offer Pneuma and Ousia attacks:

  • Hydro Traveler: Pneuma
  • Lyney: Pneuma
  • Lynette: Ousia

To fully experience all that Fontaine has to offer, make sure to invest in building these characters. They will enable you to easily vanquish Mek enemies and solve Pneuma and Ousia-related puzzles. Download Genshin Impact through its official website to embark on this thrilling adventure.