<populated with stunning visuals, deep lore, and a vast cast of characters, Genshin Impact continues to captivate a global audience. Among its most enigmatic and powerful figures is Xiao, the adeptus known as the Alatus and one of the last surviving yakshas of Liyue. His brooding demeanor, supernatural abilities, and tragic past have made him a fan favorite. Yet, one of the most frequently asked questions among players is: How old is Xiao in Genshin Impact?
The Nature of Adepti Age: An Introduction
Before diving directly into Xiao’s age, it’s crucial to understand how time and aging function for adepti—immortal beings who exist between the mortal realm and the Celestial Realms. Unlike humans who age biologically and eventually pass away, adepti such as Xiao are bound by different rules. They are spiritual entities transformed from animals or other natural beings through cultivation and enlightenment, granting them extended lifespans and resistance to the passage of time.
The term “age” takes on a different meaning when applied to a being like Xiao. What we refer to as “age” in the human sense—years lived, physical changes, developmental milestones—doesn’t translate directly to a yaksa who has lived through centuries of war, celestial duties, and existential suffering.
Xiao’s Age: Canon Evidence and Hidden Clues
Official sources from Genshin Impact—including character stories, voice lines, and developer commentary—do not explicitly state Xiao’s age in years. However, through careful analysis of the lore, we can estimate that Xiao is likely over 2,000 years old.
The Historical Timeline of Liyue and the Archon War
To understand Xiao’s age, we must first examine the history of Liyue and the role of the adepti during the Archon War—a cataclysmic conflict that took place roughly 2,000 years before the game’s current timeline.
During this war, the adepti fought alongside Morax (also known as Rex Lapis and Zhongli), the Geo Archon, to defend Liyue from invading forces and other calamities. Xiao, as one of the five former Vigilant Yakshas, was a key warrior in this conflict. He was specifically tasked with battling demons and malevolent entities that threatened the region.
The yakshas are described as “guards from the north,” spiritual warriors created or empowered by Morax to maintain balance and eliminate evil. However, the act of fighting demons corrupted them over time due to the constant exposure to chaotic energies—eventually leading to their tragic downfall.
Survivor of a Lost Generation
Xiao is believed to be the last surviving yaks after the others either succumbed to spiritual corruption, disappeared, or died. This means he has endured immense trauma, isolation, and guilt for centuries. His prolonged existence is not a sign of vitality, but rather of burden—a curse he continues to bear as a form of penance.
Since the Archon War ended approximately 2,000 years ago, and Xiao has been active throughout much of Liyue’s recorded history, it is logical to conclude that his existence spans a minimum of two millennia. While he may not have spent every moment in the mortal realm (adepti often retreat to the Jade Chamber or other secluded dimensions), his timeline overlaps heavily with ancient Liyue’s development.
Battle Fatigue and Spiritual Aging
An intriguing aspect of Xiao’s character is his concept of age as tied to psychological and spiritual fatigue rather than mere years.
As stated in his constellation description and voice lines, Xiao frequently mentions feeling worn down, “eroded” by centuries of combat, both physically and mentally. One notable voice line says: “This body is but a vessel—what remains is weariness.” This reflects his internal struggle, emphasizing that while he may not age like a human, he endures a form of spiritual aging caused by constant warfare and emotional trauma.
This kind of aging is consistent with other adepti like Zhongli, who has lived over 6,000 years, and Tartaglia, who, while not an adeptus, has experienced time in a distorted way due to his contract with Childe. For Xiao, the burden of immortality and the horrors of constant battle contribute to a sense of age far beyond his appearance.
Appearance vs. Reality: The Paradox of Xiao’s Youthful Look
Despite being thousands of years old, Xiao appears as a young man in his late teens or early twenties. This creates a stark contrast between his outward appearance and his true nature.
Immortal Physiology and Adeptal Forms
Adepti often take on humanoid forms to interact with humans, but these forms are symbolic representations rather than reflections of biological development. Xiao’s appearance—sharp features, ethereal eyes, and feathered headdress—reflects his identity as the “Alatus,” or “winged one,” but not his chronological age.
This phenomenon isn’t unique to Xiao. Cloud Retainer, another adeptus, appears as a young girl but is said to have assisted in building Liyue Harbor millennia ago. Mountain Shaper appears as a strong, noble warrior, though he predates recorded history. Their forms are a manifestation of their spiritual essence, not their time alive.
Cultural Interpretations of Age
In Liyue’s culture, appearance is rarely an indicator of age when it comes to supernatural beings. The concept of wisdom, respect, and hierarchy among the adepti is based on experience and power, not physical traits. To mortals like Hu Tao or Xiangling, Xiao seems both young and ancient—an enigma wrapped in wind and sorrow.
This duality adds to his allure. Players are drawn to the juxtaposition of a youthful face hiding millennia of pain and responsibility.
What Do the Developers Say?
While miHoYo (now HoYoverse) does not state Xiao’s exact age, both in-game lore and official materials support the idea of his extreme longevity.
Character Stories and Quests
Xiao’s character stories—particularly Story 4 and Story 6—provide substantial clues to his timeline:
- Story 1: Introduces Xiao as an adeptus who has taken on the duty of protecting Liyue, though he keeps his distance from people.
- Story 4: Mentions his long-standing conflict with demonic forces and that “many centuries have passed since the war ended, yet the burden remains.”
- Story 6: Reveals the fate of the other yakshas and hints that Xiao is the last of his kind, surviving through sheer will and Morax’s intervention.
Additionally, during the “Invincible Tri-Flap Blade” world quest and various dialogues with Zhongli and Hu Tao, Xiao refers to events in Liyue’s distant past as if recalling personal experiences—further proving his ancient origins.
Lore from Zhongli
Since Zhongli is the oldest known living character in Teyvat (over 6,000 years old), his interactions with Xiao offer key context. Zhongli refers to Xiao as an ally from ancient times and acknowledges his suffering. This mentor-like relationship, combined with Zhongli’s own awareness of time, confirms that Xiao has existed for a vast portion of Liyue’s history.
In one dialogue, Zhongli says: “Xiao has fought longer and suffered more than any should.” Given Zhongli’s vast timeframe, this statement implies Xiao’s longevity is measured in millennia, not decades.
The Impact of Xiao’s Age on His Personality and Behavior
Xiao’s immense age doesn’t just affect his physical presence—it deeply shapes who he is emotionally and mentally.
Emotional Isolation and Fear of Attachment
Because of his long life and tragic past, Xiao is incredibly reluctant to form attachments with humans. He knows that mortals age and die quickly by his standards, making relationships painful over time.
As seen in his hangout events, he avoids close bonds, often pushing others away. He says, “I am not meant for friendship. I am a weapon forged for battle.” This is not arrogance but sorrow—a recognition that forming deep connections will only lead to loss.
His immortality has become a prison. While he continues to protect Liyue from hidden threats, he does so from the shadows, preferring to be unnoticed and unloved to minimize emotional pain.
The Burden of Duty and Guilt
Xiao feels responsible for the downfall of the other yakshas. Whether directly involved or merely surviving while others fell, he carries immense guilt. This sense of duty is tied to his age—he’s been protecting Liyue for so long that it’s now an inseparable part of his identity.
His voice lines often reference loneliness, fatigue, and regret. “What am I protecting, if not peace for myself?” he muses—a reflection of someone who has lived through too much and wonders if his existence still has meaning.
Loyalty to Morax: A Bond Forged Over Centuries
Xiao’s allegiance to Zhongli (Morax) is not that of a typical subordinate—it’s a relationship shaped over centuries of shared battles and mutual respect. He fears disappointing Morax, yet also wishes to free him from worry. This complexity adds depth to his character and further confirms the length of his service.
Even after Zhongli steps down as archon and becomes a mortal advisor, Xiao continues to watch over him and Liyue, a testament to his enduring duty.
Comparisons with Other Characters
To better understand Xiao’s age, it helps to compare him with other long-lived characters in Genshin Impact.
Xiao vs. Zhongli
Zhongli is over 6,000 years old, having ruled Liyue since its founding. Xiao, while ancient, is younger than Zhongli. He was likely “created” or chosen as a yaksa during a war that took place about 2,000 years ago—placing his origin well after Zhongli’s early reign.
This still makes Xiao older than most nations in Teyvat, predating Mondstadt’s modern form and Inazuma’s Shogun lineage.
Xiao vs. Venti and Raiden Shogun
Venti, the Anemo Archon, is over 2,600 years old and also fought in the Archon War. However, Venti has spent much of his time in slumber or in carefree detachment, while Xiao was continuously active, fighting demons.
Raiden Shogun (Ei) is around 500 years old in her current form, though her original soul is older. Still, she is significantly younger than Xiao in terms of active service and continuous existence.
Xiao vs. Tartaglia (Childe)
Tartaglia is not biologically immortal but has had his youth prolonged through alchemical means and contracts with Tsaritsa. He’s been active for over 500 years, but unlike Xiao, he embraces his longevity and often appears cheerful.
Xiao, in contrast, is burdened by time. This contrast highlights how the same extended lifespan can lead to vastly different psychological outcomes.
Theories and Fan Interpretations
The lack of a concrete number for Xiao’s age has led to numerous fan theories. Let’s examine some of the most popular ones.
Theory 1: Xiao Was Once Human
Some fans speculate that Xiao was once a human warrior who was transformed into a yaksa. However, there’s little evidence to support this. Based on lore, yakshas were likely spiritual beasts or guardians awakened by Morax.
Moreover, his constellation name, Alatus Nemeseos (Latin for “Winged Retribution”), suggests a supernatural origin rather than a transfigured mortal.
Theory 2: Xiao Is Older Than 2,000 Years
Given that adepti like Cloud Retainer and Mountain Shaper existed even before the Archon War, some theorize that Xiao may have been active earlier. However, his association with the “five yakshas” indicates he was likely part of a specific generation raised for that war.
While he could be slightly older than 2,000, it’s unlikely he predates Morax’s consolidation of power in Liyue.
Theory 3: Time Works Differently for Adepti
Since adepti live in both the mortal realm and spiritual dimensions like the Jade Chamber, time may pass differently for them. This could mean Xiao has experienced thousands of years of conflict in compressed real-time.
This theory is plausible and supported by Zhongli’s comment that “a day in the Jade Chamber is like a year on Earth.” If Xiao spent significant time in such realms, his perceived age in mortal terms could be even older.
Why Does Xiao’s Age Matter to Players?
Understanding Xiao’s age isn’t just a trivia question—it enriches the player’s emotional connection to the character.
Narrative Depth and Tragic Heroism
Xiao embodies the archetype of the tragic immortal—someone who has seen empires rise and fall, friends die, and his own nature eroded by time. Knowing how old he is helps players appreciate the weight of his sacrifice and the poignancy of his current attempts to find peace.
Player Empathy and Character Investment
In hangout events, players help Xiao slowly open up to human interaction. This journey is more impactful when we realize he hasn’t allowed himself close contact with others in centuries. His fear, guardedness, and moments of vulnerability are not just quirks—they are symptoms of a millennia-long struggle.
Fan Content and Role-Playing
Xiao’s age is a favorite topic in fan fiction, art, and role-playing communities. Writers often explore “what if” scenarios—Xiao meeting past companions, Xiao witnessing ancient Liyue, or Xiao reflecting on the transience of human lives.
His timeless nature makes him a rich subject for emotional storytelling, contrasting fleeting human moments with eternal duty.
Conclusion: Xiao’s Age Is More Than a Number
So, how old is Xiao in Genshin Impact? While we lack a precise number, all evidence points to him being at least 2,000 years old, possibly older. He is a survivor of ancient wars, a guardian burdened by time, and a being whose immortality is more a curse than a gift.
But more importantly, Xiao’s age is not defined by years—it’s defined by loss, loyalty, and longing. It’s the quiet pain in his eyes when he speaks of the past, the way he flinches at human kindness, and the way he still fights, even when he no longer believes in peace for himself.
In the end, Xiao reminds us that age is not just time lived—it’s what that time has taken from you, and what you choose to protect despite it.
As players continue to explore the lore of Genshin Impact, Xiao stands as one of its most profound symbols: the eternal guardian, watching from the wind, carrying the weight of centuries.
References
- Genshin Impact Official Wiki – Character Profile: Xiao
- Genshin Impact In-Game Voice Lines and Character Stories
- Lore Summary: The Archon War and Adepti of Liyue
- Zhongli Character Story and Dialogue Database (HoYoLAB)
- The History of Liyue – Official Developer Panel Summaries
How old is Xiao in Genshin Impact?
Xiao’s exact age in Genshin Impact has not been officially confirmed in years, but he is implied to be thousands of years old. As a yaksha, Xiao has lived through centuries of warfare against demonic forces under the command of the adepti and the Geo Archon, Morax (also known as Zhongli). His longevity is due to his status as an immortal being—a trait common among adepti in Liyue’s lore. Players are given glimpses into his long, sorrowful past through in-game dialogues and character stories, which reveal that he has spent eons battling to protect Liyue while bearing the psychological weight of that endless conflict.
While Zhongli, another immortal adeptus, is known to have ruled Liyue for over 6,000 years, Xiao appears younger and more isolated, suggesting he may have been summoned into service sometime after that era. His character story details his deep weariness and trauma from prolonged combat, reinforcing the idea that he has lived for many centuries. Although the developers have not pinned down an exact number, contextual clues place Xiao’s age well into the thousands, making him one of the oldest human-like characters in the game despite his youthful appearance.
Why does Xiao look so young if he’s thousands of years old?
Xiao appears physically youthful due to his nature as an adeptus, a supernatural being blessed by the Geo Archon with immortality and enhanced physical forms. Adepti do not age in the same way mortals do; their bodies remain unchanged over centuries unless they choose to manifest signs of aging. Xiao’s slender frame, sharp features, and youthful appearance are consistent with how the game portrays other immortal beings, such as Zhongli, who also retains a relatively youthful look despite his ancient age. This ageless form allows the character to maintain a visual identity that fits his role as a vigilant protector.
Beyond his inherent immortality, the yakshas were specifically empowered to endure constant battles against evil forces, which required them to remain in peak physical and spiritual form. This divine enhancement likely stabilizes their appearances indefinitely. Additionally, from a narrative and artistic standpoint, Genshin Impact’s developers use youthful designs for immortal characters to emphasize their eternal struggle and emotional isolation—Xiao’s baby-faced appearance contrasts poignantly with his tragic, war-worn psyche, creating a compelling duality that deepens player connection to his story.
Is Xiao older than Zhongli in Genshin Impact?
No, Xiao is not older than Zhongli. Zhongli, also known as Morax, is the Geo Archon who founded and ruled over Liyue for over 6,000 years, making him one of the oldest known characters in Teyvat. In contrast, Xiao was summoned into existence by Zhongli during the Abyss Wars to assist in protecting Liyue from demonic threats. This means his creation occurred well after Zhongli’s long reign began, placing Xiao’s origin sometime within the latter half of that 6,000-year span. Historical and dialogic evidence consistently portrays Zhongli as Xiao’s superior and benefactor, further confirming his seniority in both age and status.
Although the exact moment of Xiao’s creation is not documented, it would have been during a period of intense conflict when the yakshas were needed most. Given that the Abyss Wars spanned centuries, and that Zhongli already had an established adeptal network, Xiao was likely summoned several hundred, if not a thousand, years ago. While this makes him extraordinarily old by human standards, he is still significantly younger than Zhongli. Their relationship reflects this hierarchy, with Xiao treating Zhongli with deep respect and gratitude, acknowledging him as both mentor and savior who eventually freed him from his endless duties.
How does Xiao’s age affect his personality and behavior?
Xiao’s immense age has profoundly shaped his personality, leaving him aloof, introspective, and burdened by centuries of trauma. As one of the last surviving yakshas, he has witnessed the deaths of many comrades and endured relentless combat, which has made him wary of forming close bonds. His long life has instilled a sense of duty and detachment, as he views emotional attachments as vulnerabilities that could jeopardize his ability to protect Liyue. This is evident in his reluctance to interact with normal civilians and his tendency to keep others at arm’s length, even when offered kindness.
Despite his guarded nature, Xiao’s ancient experiences have also fostered a quiet sense of compassion and wisdom. He understands the fleeting nature of mortal lives and values the peace he now enjoys thanks to Zhongli’s intervention. His character story reveals moments of reflection, where he expresses regret for past violence and hope for a gentler future. This internal conflict—between his immortal warrior instincts and his desire for tranquility—makes him one of the most emotionally complex characters in the game. His age isn’t just a number; it’s a core element of his identity, influencing every interaction and decision.
Do other characters in Genshin Impact know how old Xiao is?
Within the game’s lore, certain key figures are aware of Xiao’s advanced age, particularly other adepti and high-ranking beings in Liyue. Zhongli, as his creator and commander, clearly knows Xiao’s history and has referenced their shared past during events like the “Invitation of Windblume” festival. NPC dialogues and story quests also suggest that figures like the Lawachurl and other Liyue elders recognize Xiao as a legendary protector from ancient times. However, ordinary citizens of Liyue likely do not know his true age, seeing him instead as a mythical guardian of the shadows.
Most playable characters in the Traveler’s party are unaware of the full extent of Xiao’s age, though they may suspect his otherworldly nature. Dialogue during co-op events or character interactions sometimes alludes to his mysterious background, but he rarely speaks of his past. This secrecy protects both himself and others from the darker truths of his history. The limited knowledge among the cast reinforces Xiao’s isolation and adds to the enigma of his character, allowing players to gradually uncover his story through exploration and character progression.
Why hasn’t Xiao aged physically despite living for centuries?
Xiao hasn’t aged physically because he is not a mortal being but an adeptus—a transcendent creature empowered by divine forces. Adepti are imbued with immortality and supernatural resilience, allowing them to maintain their form across thousands of years. Xiao’s existence as one of the yakshas, celestial warriors created by Morax, ties him to an eternal cycle of protection and conflict. His body is preserved not by biology but by celestial energy and blessings from the Geo Archon, which prevent aging, disease, and even decay from prolonged warfare. This is a common trait among other non-mortal beings in Liyue’s mythology.
In addition to his divine nature, the yakshas were specifically engineered for endurance in battle against malevolent entities from the Abyss. Their powers came at a cost: prolonged use led to spiritual torment, but their physical forms remained stable. Even as Xiao began to lose his comrades to the corruption of their duties, his body retained its strength and youthful appearance. Only after Zhongli lifted their mandates did Xiao gain peace, but his physical form stayed unchanged. This eternal youth is both a blessing and a reminder of his inescapable past—one that visually sets him apart from the fleeting lives of the mortals he protects.
Can Xiao die of old age in Genshin Impact?
As an adeptus blessed by the Geo Archon, Xiao is not susceptible to death by old age. Immortal beings in Genshin Impact’s world, such as the adepti and archons, do not die from natural causes or the passage of time. Instead, their existence is tied to spiritual energy, divine contracts, and the balance of elemental forces. Xiao’s life force is sustained by his connection to Morax and his role as a yaksha. Unless his blessing is revoked, his soul is destroyed, or he suffers a fatal wound beyond regeneration, Xiao would persist indefinitely, even as centuries pass.
However, immortality in Genshin Impact is often portrayed as a burden rather than a gift. Xiao has experienced the deaths of his yaksha brethren, not from age but from spiritual fatigue, demonic corruption, and battle-related injuries. This suggests that while time will not end him, other forces can. His story emphasizes vulnerability despite his power, showing that even immortal beings can be broken emotionally or spiritually. Thus, while old age won’t kill Xiao, his eternal existence places him at risk of suffering that transcends physical mortality, making his immortality both a strength and a curse.