Neuvillette
Neuvillette is a prominent fictional character in the open-world action role-playing game Genshin Impact, developed and published by miHoYo under its global brand HoYoverse. He serves as the Chief Justice, or Iudex, of the sovereign nation of Fontaine, where he presides over trials with renowned unassailable impartiality and upholds the rule of law.[1] Introduced as a playable 5-star Hydro element character during version 4.1 on September 27, 2023, Neuvillette wields a catalyst as his signature weapon and functions primarily as an on-field damage per second (DPS) unit.[2][1] His gameplay revolves around enhanced charged attacks that channel Hydro damage, supported by his Elemental Skill and Burst abilities, making him highly effective in teams focused on Vaporize, Electro-Charged, or Freeze reactions.[2] Neuvillette is notable as the first playable character in Genshin Impact whose elemental powers derive neither from a Vision nor a Gnosis, instead drawing directly from a profound affinity with water.[2] In terms of appearance, Neuvillette is depicted as a tall, elegant man with long white hair, piercing blue eyes, and attire inspired by French judicial robes. He maintains a solitary lifestyle, eschewing personal relationships to avoid bias in his judgments, and exhibits a unique interest in sampling various types of water. His birthday is December 18, and his constellation is named Leviathan Judicator.[2] Neuvillette's lore intertwines with Fontaine's narrative as a key figure in the region's Archon Quests, where he is revealed to be the Hydro Dragon Sovereign in human form, navigating complex political and existential themes related to justice, prophecy, and the primordial elements. He is affiliated with the Court of Fontaine and leads the Marechaussee Phantom, an elite guard force, underscoring his authoritative role in maintaining order.[1][2] Through official teasers and miscellany, his story emphasizes a deep, intrinsic bond with the "font of all waters," portraying him as a guardian of ancient precepts that govern the flow of life and law across Teyvat.[3][4]Development
Concept and creation
Neuvillette was initially conceptualized as the Chief Justice of Fontaine, known as the Iudex, a figure renowned for his unassailable impartiality and role in upholding the nation's judicial system.[1] He was introduced as a non-playable character (NPC) in Genshin Impact's Version 4.0 update, titled "As Light Rain Falls Without Reason," which launched on August 16, 2023.[5] This version marked the debut of the Fontaine region, where Neuvillette guides players through key narrative elements tied to the area's legal and societal structures.[6] The character's development timeline progressed rapidly, with Neuvillette becoming a playable character in Version 4.1, "To the Stars Shining in the Depths," released on September 27, 2023.[7] This update expanded Fontaine's storyline and made Neuvillette available as a 5-star Hydro catalyst user, emphasizing his integration into both narrative and gameplay elements.[8] Neuvillette's origin as the reborn Hydro Dragon Sovereign stems from Genshin Impact's foundational lore, where the Seven Sovereigns—ancient elemental dragons—once ruled Teyvat before the rise of the Archons.[4] As the Dragon of Water, he is intrinsically linked to the primordial waters that formed the earth's foundations, bounded by the spirit of the ancient sea.[4] This draconic heritage underscores themes of elemental sovereignty, with Neuvillette re-enacting the laws of the old world in a new era, symbolizing the restoration of forgotten natural orders.[4] Creative inspirations for Neuvillette blend Fontaine's regional motifs—drawn from French cultural and Industrial Revolution-era influences—with Teyvat's elemental dragon mythology.[9] The nation's emphasis on legal traditions and justice is central, positioning Neuvillette as an impartial arbiter who enforces inexorable judgment while subtly revealing emotional layers through his connection to flowing waters, which carry complex human sentiments.[9][4] miHoYo's design subverts the archetype of a distant authority figure by infusing his draconic essence with introspective depth, as seen in his emergence from isolation to engage with the world's "plot" and self-understanding.[3] This approach highlights impartiality alongside vulnerability tied to his ancient origins.[4]Design and characteristics
Neuvillette employs the tall male body type model in Genshin Impact, characterized by pale skin, pointed ears, dark blue-shaded slit pupils in his eyes, and long, waist-length white hair.[10] His attire reflects a formal, judicial aesthetic suited to his role, consisting of a tailored blue suit with intricate white accents, a ruffled white cravat at the neck, white gloves, and a subtle blue earring on his left ear. A distinctive blue gem, resembling a Hydro Vision in shape and hue, adorns his collar.[10] Symbolically, Neuvillette's design draws on aquatic and authoritative motifs, with the blue-and-white palette evoking flowing water and impartial justice, while his pointed ears subtly nod to draconic heritage inspired by mythological dragons. His in-game animations highlight graceful, measured motions, underscoring an elegant demeanor that aligns with his poised, deliberate nature.[10][11]Characterization
Appearance
Neuvillette is depicted in Genshin Impact as an elegant, humanoid figure with pale skin and a slender, tall build, evoking an air of refined authority. His most striking features include long, flowing white hair that reaches his waist, subtly pointed ears hinting at his draconic heritage as the Hydro Dragon Sovereign, and sharp, dark blue eyes with slit pupils that convey an otherworldly intensity.[3][2] His attire reinforces his position as Fontaine's Chief Justice, consisting of tailored judicial robes in varying shades of blue, accented by a white cravat, dark gloves, and ornate accessories such as bright blue horn-like ornaments on his head and shoulders. He carries a distinctive cane, which serves as both a symbol of judicial power in court proceedings and a practical tool during exploration in the game's world. These elements blend seamlessly with Fontaine's steampunk-inspired aesthetic, featuring intricate metallic details and flowing fabrics that emphasize precision and elegance. As of November 2025, Neuvillette has no alternate skins or cosmetic variations, ensuring his appearance remains uniform across narrative cutscenes, gameplay, and promotional materials. This consistent, ethereal design highlights his detachment from ordinary human society, positioning him as a figure of impartial justice amid Fontaine's mechanically ornate environment.[3]Personality
Neuvillette is characterized by his solitary and reserved nature, maintaining a deliberate distance from others to preserve his unassailable impartiality as the Chief Justice of Fontaine. He politely rejects personal connections, viewing them as potential threats to the objectivity required for fair judgments, which positions him as a symbol of absolute justice in the eyes of the public. This aloof demeanor stems from his unfamiliarity with human customs and emotions, which he observes and attempts to comprehend through his role in the courts, often appearing detached during public interactions.[2] Neuvillette exhibits protectiveness toward the Melusines, integrating them into Fontaine society through supportive laws. His deep commitment to justice drives his motivations, as he upholds Fontaine's laws with unwavering seriousness. He prefers rainy weather, which aligns with his profound affinity for water as the Hydro Dragon Sovereign.[2] Among his quirks, Neuvillette shows no appreciation for food or drink beyond water, having never praised renowned local dishes, yet he hosts elaborate water-tasting events to demonstrate the nuanced flavors of waters from various regions. He holds a profound belief that all Fontainians are inherently guilty, carrying the weight of this impending judgment alone as a lonesome burden tied to Fontaine's lore.[2] In the Fontaine Archon Quest, Neuvillette's understanding of human emotions develops, though he retains his inherent aloofness.[1]Role in Genshin Impact
Story involvement
Neuvillette debuts in Genshin Impact Version 4.0 as the Chief Justice, or Iudex, of Fontaine, presiding over trials at the Opera Epiclese and commanding the Marechaussee Phantom, the region's law enforcement force.[1] Throughout the Fontaine Archon Quest, he adjudicates pivotal cases, such as the trial of magician Lyney for a murder accusation and the proceedings involving Duke Wriothesley of the Fortress of Meropide, upholding Fontaine's justice system amid rising tensions.[12] His personal Story Quest, "Diluvies Chapter: Act I - The Remains of the Past Day," released in Version 4.1 on September 27, 2023, delves into Neuvillette's backstory as the reincarnated Hydro Dragon Sovereign. It explores his ancient past, his initial judgments upon arriving in Fontaine approximately 400 years ago, and his evolving understanding of justice and emotions, particularly through interactions revealing his protective role toward the Melusines.[1] Central to the narrative is Neuvillette's involvement in averting Fontaine's dire prophecy, which predicts the dissolution of its people into the Primordial Sea, sparing only the Hydro Archon. As the crisis escalates in Versions 4.1 and 4.2, he uncovers the prophecy's ties to ancient celestial conflicts and confronts threats like the flooding Primordial Sea. Following Focalors' self-sacrifice to dismantle the Hydro Throne, Neuvillette reclaims his authority as the Hydro Sovereign, absolving humanity's "original sin" to purify the waters, defeat the All-Devouring Narwhal, and end the perpetual rain symbolizing his suppressed emotions.[12] As the reincarnated Hydro Dragon—one of the Seven Sovereigns who once ruled Teyvat before the Primordial One's arrival—Neuvillette embodies the elemental origins of Hydro, intrinsically connected to the Primordial Sea that threatens Fontaine. His ancient grudge against the Archons stems from the Sovereigns' defeat during the cataclysm, though Focalors' letter had drawn him to Fontaine, inviting him to witness and participate in its unfolding "drama" as a means to restore balance. As of November 2025, following the completion of the Natlan Archon Quest in version 5.x and into version 6.x, Neuvillette maintains regional stability by governing Fontaine independently, ensuring justice and elemental harmony without an Archon.[12][13]Relationships
Neuvillette shares a profound and multifaceted bond with Focalors, the former Hydro Archon, rooted in a mentor-protégé dynamic where she invited him to Fontaine and positioned him as the Chief Justice, ultimately leading to his empowerment following her sacrifice. He holds deep respect for her ideals of justice through love, as articulated in his reflections on her vision and that of her predecessor Egeria. This respect extends to Furina, Focalors' human vessel, whom Neuvillette admires for her centuries-long performance of duty; he expresses a subtle protectiveness, vowing to applaud her return and support her freedom post-events.[14][15] His relationship with the Melusines is characterized by paternal affection, viewing them as cherished dependents and a new lineage of Hydro creatures akin to successors. Neuvillette treats them with warmth, having advocated for legal recognition of their gender as "she" to affirm their identity, and he frequently engages in their interests, such as astrology discussions with individuals like Sigewinne. The Melusines reciprocate this bond through letters that affirm his role as Chief Justice and encourage him to embrace his true nature, reinforcing his sense of belonging in Fontaine. He describes them as Fontaine's pride and beauty, urging their protection with evident fondness.[14][15] Among other Fontaine figures, Neuvillette maintains professional ties marked by respect and impartial distance to uphold his judicial role. With Clorinde, the Champion Duelist and his enforcer, he praises her unparalleled skills in ensuring courtroom fairness and notes her hidden softer side, indicating a reliable partnership. His interactions with Navia, president of the Spina di Rosula, carry undertones of regret over past trials involving her father, fostering an alliance in legal matters but emotional restraint to preserve objectivity. Similarly, he regards Wriothesley, warden of the Fortress of Meropide, as trustworthy and defends his reputation, reflecting a solid professional rapport without personal closeness. This detachment extends to figures like Sigewinne, for whom he shows protective concern against mistreatment, blending duty with quiet care.[15] On a broader scale, Neuvillette's ties to the Archons are antagonistic, stemming from his draconic sovereignty and intent to judge them for historical encroachments on elemental authority, though tempered by respect for their contributions—such as commending the Dendro Archon's responsibility while planning trials for others like the Geo and Electro Archons. He maintains a neutral, egalitarian stance with the Traveler, treating them as a trusted witness to his pursuit of justice and inviting their perspective on the world's truths.[15]Gameplay
Combat abilities
Neuvillette functions as a 5-star Hydro Catalyst user specializing in on-field damage dealing, with abilities that scale primarily with his maximum HP to emphasize sustained charged attacks empowered by Hydro reactions. His kit centers on generating and absorbing Sourcewater Droplets, which accelerate his charged attack formation, heal him for 16% of Max HP each, and enhance overall output without relying on traditional elemental energy management beyond his burst. This design promotes a playstyle focused on uninterrupted HP-draining charged attacks, often supported by shields to mitigate vulnerability during extended animations.[16][17] His Normal Attack: As Water Seeks Equilibrium consists of up to three consecutive strikes that deal Hydro DMG, serving as a basic combo for positioning or minor damage. The key component is the enhanced Charged Attack: Equitable Judgment, which unleashes continuous AoE Hydro DMG in a straight line ahead, scaling at 7.32%–14.47% of Max HP per hit over a 3-second duration with no stamina cost. This attack requires his HP to exceed 50% and drains 8% of current HP every 0.5 seconds during execution; absorbing nearby Sourcewater Droplets speeds up the attack's seal formation.[17][18] The Elemental Skill: O Tears, I Shall Repay summons a surging waterfall that deals AoE Hydro DMG equivalent to 12.86%–23.16% of Max HP while generating 3 Sourcewater Droplets for immediate use in charged attacks; it operates on a 12-second cooldown and includes periodic Pneuma-aligned follow-up damage via a Spiritbreath Thorn.[17] Neuvillette's Elemental Burst: O Tides, I Have Returned releases a massive tidal wave dealing initial AoE Hydro DMG at 22.26%–40.06% of Max HP, followed by additional waterfall strikes and generating 6 Sourcewater Droplets to fuel subsequent charged attacks; it costs 70 energy and has an 18-second cooldown.[17] His passive talents further refine this HP-centric, reaction-dependent mechanic. Heir to the Ancient Sea's Authority grants stacks of Past Draconic Glories (up to 3, lasting 30 seconds) whenever nearby party members trigger Hydro-related elemental reactions (such as Vaporize or Electro-Charged), boosting Equitable Judgment DMG by 110%–160% based on stack count. Discipline of the Supreme Arbitration provides a Hydro DMG Bonus of 0.6% for every 1% of Max HP above 30%, capping at 30% total. Gather Like the Tide increases the party's underwater sprint speed by 15%, aiding exploration in aquatic environments. Constellations enhance these base abilities with additional effects, such as improved droplet generation.[17][19]Constellations and ascension
Neuvillette's constellations enhance his charged attack-focused playstyle, building upon his base abilities by improving damage output, survivability, and resource generation. His first constellation, Venerable Institution, grants him one stack of Past Draconic Glories from the passive talent "Heir to the Ancient Sea's Authority" upon entering the field and increases his interruption resistance during Charged Attack: Empowerment - Legal Evaluation and Charged Attack: Equitable Judgment.[20] The second constellation, Juridical Exhortation, further modifies this passive by adding 14% CRIT DMG to Charged Attack: Equitable Judgment per stack of Past Draconic Glories, with a maximum of 42%.[20] Ancient Postulation at C3 raises the level of his Normal Attack, As Water Seeks Equilibrium, by 3, up to a maximum of level 15.[20] C4, Crown of Commiseration, generates one Sourcewater Droplet whenever Neuvillette is healed while on-field, with a cooldown of 4 seconds.[20] The fifth constellation, Axiomatic Judgment, increases the level of his Elemental Burst, O Tides, I Have Returned, by 3, up to level 15.[20] Finally, C6 Wrathful Recompense allows absorption of nearby Sourcewater Droplets during Charged Attack: Equitable Judgment, extending its duration by 1 second per droplet absorbed; it also adds two extra currents every 2 seconds that deal Hydro DMG equal to 10% of Neuvillette's Max HP, counting as damage from Equitable Judgment.[20] Ascension phases for Neuvillette require a combination of Hydro gemstones, regional specialties, enemy drops, and world boss materials, unlocking passive talents progressively from A1 to A6. The primary ascension stat is CRIT DMG Bonus, starting at 9.6% upon reaching phase 2 (level 40) and reaching a maximum of 38.4% at phase 6 (level 90).[21] Total materials needed include 1 Varunada Lazurite Sliver, 9 Fragments, 9 Chunks, and 6 Gemstones; 18 Transoceanic Pearls and 30 Chunks; 36 Xenochromatic Crystals; 46 Fontemer Unihorns; and 168 Lumiotoiles, alongside 420,000 Mora.[22]| Ascension Phase | Level Range | Key Materials Added | CRIT DMG Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1-20 | 1 Sliver, 3 Pearls, 3 Lumiotoiles | 0% |
| 1 | 20-40 | 3 Fragments, 15 Pearls, 10 Lumiotoiles, 2 Unihorns | 9.6% |
| 2 | 40-50 | 6 Fragments, 12 Chunks (Transoceanic), 20 Lumiotoiles, 4 Unihorns | 19.2% |
| 3 | 50-60 | 3 Chunks (Lazurite), 18 Chunks (Transoceanic), 30 Lumiotoiles, 8 Unihorns | 19.2% |
| 4 | 60-70 | 6 Chunks (Lazurite), 12 Crystals (Xenochromatic), 45 Lumiotoiles, 12 Unihorns | 28.8% |
| 5 | 70-80 | 6 Gemstones, 24 Crystals (Xenochromatic), 60 Lumiotoiles, 20 Unihorns | 38.4% |
| 6 | 80-90 | None (final level-up) | 38.4% (total) |