Genshin Impact Players Question the Removal of Waveriders and Travel Mechanics

A recent post on r/Genshin_Impact highlights community dissatisfaction with the evolving design of regional exploration in the game. The author, identified as "Really," argues that several mechanics from older areas have been abandoned in favor of convenience, specifically noting the removal of Waveriders. The user recalls the "wonderful feeling" of sailing to explore Inazuma, contrasting it with the current system where players can simply click a waypoint to skip the journey entirely. This shift has led to a loss of immersion for many, as the author misses the initial experience of crossing borders, such as moving from Mondstadt to Liyue or entering Sumeru’s forests. The post suggests that even the narrow passage connecting Sumeru and Natlan offers a better sense of travel than the current instant teleportation to isolated islands. While acknowledging that not every feature needs to return, the user questions why mechanics that genuinely added to the experience have disappeared. This sentiment reflects a broader community discussion about the balance between accessibility and the immersive, journey-based exploration that defined earlier versions of Genshin Impact. The post serves as a critique of the current design philosophy, urging developers to reconsider how new regions are introduced to maintain the sense of discovery and physical travel through Teyvat.