As Identity V, the globally acclaimed asymmetric multiplayer survival game developed by NetEase, marks its seventh anniversary in 2025, the occasion is not just a milestone—it’s a testament to the game’s enduring legacy of blending gothic horror, strategic gameplay, and cultural innovation. From its humble beginnings in 2018 to its recent inclusion as an official esports title for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, the game has captivated over 400 million players worldwide with its unique narrative-driven experience.
▍New Characters: Unveiling Strategic Depth
The anniversary update introduces three new characters, each bringing fresh dynamics to the Estate:
- Survivor: Lanternist Amanda Gaddis: Plagued by a rare sleep disorder and haunting visions, Amanda finds solace in "optical toys" that project illusions of ordinary life. Her lantern-based skills disrupt Hunters by blinding them with light flares and healing teammates in designated safe zones. Her rare costume "Phantom Lantern" merges Victorian-era lantern craftsmanship with steampunk mechanics, featuring a glowing orb that casts ethereal shadows.
- Survivor: Escape Artist Ephron Wise: A former stunt performer with a knack for evasion, equipped with tools to bypass Hunter traps. His backstory ties into the "Watcher Organization" mystery.
- Hunter: Pool Cue Master: A physical Hunter wielding a cue ball launcher, capable of precise area control. His debut skin "Snooker Sovereign" blends Victorian elegance with industrial design.
▍Limited-Time Events & Cosmic-Themed Rewards
- Enlightenment Under the Stars: A four-part narrative quest where players investigate the "Star Sacrificer" case alongside Detective Orpheus. Completion rewards include the rare costume "Stellar Prophet" and exclusive furniture like the "Celestial Table".
- Starry Sky Dream: Players earn "Astro Tickets" to unlock constellation-themed cosmetics, including the "Nebula Waist Accessory" (5% speed boost) and the "Galaxy Farmland" decoration set.
- Anniversary Lucky Draw: Logging in during the event grants 10 free Anniversary Essence pulls, with guaranteed rare costumes like "Steam Era: Lady Red" for Hunters and "Mystic Seer" for Survivors.
▍Cross-Industry Collaborations
- KFC Collaboration: The "K Colonel" themed event offers exclusive skins like the "Knight-MentorK" for the Seer and "KI Colonel" accessories. Offline events in Shanghai and Hangzhou feature themed cafes with AR interactions.
- Literature & Anime Collaborations: The "Frieren: Beyond Journey" anime collaboration introduces skins for the Perfumer and Antiquarian, while the "Concrete Revolutio" crossover brings back fan-favorite costumes like "Emma the Gardener".
▍Esports Milestone & Community Celebrations
- Asian Games Edition: The "Identity V Asian Games Edition" has been officially recognized for the 2026 Asian Games, highlighting the game’s competitive integrity. Players can unlock the "IVL Champion Jacket" by participating in special ranked modes.
- City-Themed Stores: Pop-up stores in Hangzhou and Shanghai showcase character IPs like the Antiquarian Qi Shiyi and the Fortune Teller Norton Campbell, offering limited-edition merchandise and immersive photo booths.
▍Player Benefits & Nostalgic Returns
- All Characters Free: All characters are free to play during the anniversary period, including rare ones like the Entomologist and the Sculptor.
- Classic Skins Return: Beloved skins like "Phantom of the Opera" for the Photographer and "Sea Salt" for the Gardener return via community voting, alongside new "Ivory Tower" series cosmetics.
▍Looking Ahead: The Future of Manor Mysteries
The 7th anniversary not only celebrates the past but also teases what’s to come. The upcoming "Mirror Dimension" game mode will allow players to switch between Survivor and Hunter roles mid-match, while the "Observer Organization" storyline promises deeper lore revelations. With cross-platform multiplayer set to launch later this year, Identity V continues to bridge gaps between players worldwide.
From its eerie Oletus Manor to the grand stage of esports, Identity V’s seven-year journey reflects its commitment to innovation and community. As players gear up for new challenges, one thing remains clear: the thrill of the chase—and the mystery of the manor—will endure for years to come.
