Similar to Sumeru and Fontaine, Natlan is anticipated to be a multi-layered region in Genshin Impact, as recent leaks outline what players can expect in Version 5.0 and beyond. While Sumeru's underground layers often resemble a maze, the multi-layered map design has added a new dimension to Genshin Impact's open world, keeping exploration clear and engaging. Fontaine has built on this concept by incorporating underwater content, and it appears Natlan may follow suit. The primary exploration feature in Natlan will focus on its Saurian mounts, but the region is set to introduce a unique element instead of underwater content.
The map expansion in Version 5.0 is rumored to be extensive, drawing comparisons to Sumeru's vast deserts and rainforests. Players are expected to use mounts for navigating the terrain, but a recent leak suggests that Natlan will also include a new "sky" layer, potentially to accommodate the floating islands showcased during the Version 4.7 livestream. Genshin Impact has previously experimented with floating islands in Inazuma and more recently in Fontaine during Version 4.1. While players have pieced together a general idea of what Version 5.0 will entail, leaker Uncle Teyvat has provided a rough sketch revealing the size and placement of the new zone. Version 5.0 is set to introduce three new characters from different Saurian tribes, which players will be able to visit.
The sketch indicates that the map expansion will be comparable in size to Version 3.1, which also featured numerous tombs for exploration. The sky islands in Natlan may serve a similar purpose. Natlan is expected to launch in late August 2024, with plans for a total of five map expansions during its content era. Versions 5.1 and 5.2 are anticipated to extend Natlan's coastline and potentially introduce the three Saurian tribes, while the remaining two zones could involve an expansion of Mondstadt or an introduction to Snezhnaya. Additionally, the new sky layer in Natlan would align well with Mondstadt's identity as the Anemo Nation. For now, Version 5.0 will connect to the Desert of Hadramaveth and will still include underground caves.