Genshin Impact Guide - Nightsoul and Phlogiston, Natlan's New Mechanics

In Genshin Impact, Natlan introduces intriguing new mechanics that may seem unfamiliar to many players. Two of the standout systems are Phlogiston and Nightsoul. While Phlogiston is relatively straightforward, Nightsoul encompasses several interconnected elements central to Natlan’s exploration.

Understanding these mechanics can be a bit tricky, so let’s break down what you need to know about Phlogiston and Nightsoul in Natlan.

What is Phlogiston?

In Natlan, the red bar displayed above your HP bar is known as Phlogiston. Unlike the coldness meter in Dragonspine, Phlogiston is actually a beneficial feature.

Think of Phlogiston as an extra energy bar specifically for Natlan. It provides additional stamina that supports various activities. Using a Saurian power or a Natlan character’s abilities will consume Nightsoul points. Once your Nightsoul points are depleted, you can still continue utilizing Saurian powers or character skills until your Phlogiston reserves are exhausted. This extended energy reserve allows you to engage in activities like surfing with Maulani for longer periods.

How to Acquire Phlogiston Energy

Phlogiston can be gathered from multiple sources throughout Natlan:

- Activating Everflame Seeds (round stones with red orbs)

- Collecting Flaming Seeds of Phlogiston (small red orbs scattered around)

- Harvesting Candlecap Mushrooms and Flamegranates

- Catching Crystal Beetles and Pyro Crystalfly

- Destroying Phlogiston Piles and Explosive Barrels

- Reaching Teleport Waypoints or Statues of the Seven

Understanding Nightsoul Mechanics

Nightsoul encompasses more than just the stamina bar for Natlan. It includes three primary mechanics:

- Nightsoul’s Blessing

- Nightsoul Burst

- Nightsoul Transmission

Nightsoul’s Blessing

Natlan characters can enter the Nightsoul’s Blessing state through their abilities, typically their Elemental Skills. When in this state, characters accumulate Nightsoul points, which are used or restored depending on actions or triggers. This state is visually indicated by colors surrounding the character.

Nightsoul Burst

When at least one Natlan character is in your party, dealing Elemental DMG will trigger Nightsoul Burst, signified by a Natlan pattern appearing on your screen. The cooldown for this burst decreases with more Natlan characters in your team, with cooldowns set at 18/12/9 seconds for 1, 2, or 3+ Natlan characters, respectively. Nightsoul Burst can enhance Natlan characters and certain equipment.

Nightsoul Transmission

Designed for efficient exploration, Nightsoul Transmission allows for quick character switching within areas where Phlogiston is present. When a character’s avatar lights up, you can switch to them and immediately use their mobility skill. For instance:

- Switch to Xianyun mid-air to use her Skill, then move to Kinich.

- Transition to Kachina while climbing or sprinting.

- Activate Mualani’s surf mode while swimming.

These new mechanics aim to enrich your experience in Natlan, providing both strategic depth and exploration advantages in Genshin Impact.