Wuthering Waves 3.5: Launch Date, New Region, and Banner Schedule
Kuro Games is set to launch Wuthering Waves 3.5 on July 9, 2026, introducing an expansive new map and a sophisticated iteration of a beloved Resonator. The update unveils Mengzhou, a region ripe for exploration and discovery, alongside the arrival of Yangyang: Xuanling—a reimagined, more potent version of the Aero-wielding companion. For all the latest Wuthering Waves news, this patch also includes a highly anticipated character return and a selection of reliable 4-star units.
If you have been hoarding your Astrites, this upcoming banner cycle is worth your attention. With the release schedule and maintenance windows officially locked in, here is the essential information you need to prepare before the game goes offline.
Snapshot of Version 3.5
- Update Launch: July 9, 2026 (ET) / July 10, 2026 (Asia & Europe)
- Fresh Territory: Mengzhou
- New Character: Yangyang: Xuanling (5-star Aero designation expected)
- Initial Banner: Yangyang: Xuanling debut / Luuk Herssen rerun
- Featured 4-Stars: Danjin, Chixia, Aalto
- Availability: July 9 – July 30, 2026
Banner Details
The first phase spans from July 9 through July 30, 2026. This period features the limited debut of Yangyang: Xuanling alongside the return of Luuk Herssen.
Boosted drop rates will apply to the following 4-star characters across both featured banners:
- Danjin (Havoc, Sword)
- Chixia (Fusion, Pistols)
- Aalto (Aero, Pistols)
Should You Invest Your Astrites?
Yangyang: Xuanling represents an advanced state of the original 4-star Yangyang. While specific ability details remain under wraps, new forms in Wuthering Waves generally offer substantial combat upgrades. If you favor the character’s aesthetic or require a high-tier Aero DPS, this banner is an excellent target.
Luuk Herssen serves as a robust healer and support unit; his rerun is ideal for players who missed him during his initial 3.1 run. F2P players should carefully manage their resources, as the accompanying 4-star characters are functional but not necessarily meta-essential.
Server Maintenance Information
Expect roughly 7 hours of downtime. Servers will be unavailable during these intervals:
| Region | Starts | Ends |
|---|---|---|
| PT (UTC-7) | July 9, 1:00 PM | July 9, 8:00 PM |
| ET (UTC-4) | July 9, 4:00 PM | July 9, 11:00 PM |
| GMT (UTC+0) | July 9, 8:00 PM | July 10, 3:00 AM |
| JST (UTC+9) | July 10, 5:00 AM | July 10, 12:00 PM |
For more detailed timing, visit our GenshinBuilds Wuthering Waves update hub.
Preparation Checklist
- Use up your remaining Waveplates, as surplus reserves will not carry over effectively.
- Wrap up any remaining tasks from 3.4 events.
- Consolidate your Forging, Sealed, and Crystal Solvents to prepare for new crafting materials in Mengzhou.
- Prepare your 5-star pity count if you are aiming for the new releases.
Immediate Goals Post-Launch
- Collect your maintenance rewards via the in-game mail system.
- Begin your journey through Mengzhou to uncover new lore, puzzles, and hidden treasures.
- Trial Yangyang: Xuanling to master her new combat mechanics.
- Check the announcement board for information on the latest events.
Looking Ahead
Version 3.5 is scheduled for a six-week duration, concluding on August 19 or 20, 2026. Details regarding the second half of the patch, including potential new characters or additional reruns, remain pending.
For comprehensive insights, character builds, and map walkthroughs, be sure to follow the GenshinBuilds Wuthering Waves portal.
Note: Unconfirmed data is subject to change; please verify information via official patch notes after the update is live.