Navigating to the Secret Source Automaton Boss: Configuration Device in Genshin Impact

In Genshin Impact, the Secret Source Automaton: Configuration Device is a notable boss you can encounter in the region of Natlan. Defeating this boss rewards you with the Gold-Inscribed Secret Source Code, a valuable Ascension material for characters like Xilonen, and potentially others in future updates. This boss comes with some unique mechanics, so continue reading to discover all the details.

Locating the Secret Source Automaton: Configuration Device in Genshin Impact

At first, the Secret Source Automaton: Configuration Device appears to be situated in the midst of the ocean; however, there’s no need for swimming, transforming into a Koholasaur, or taking a Waverider. Instead, you can reach it through a hidden cave pathway.

Ningguang from Genshin Impact standing on a bridge — Image courtesy of Pro Game Guides

To start, head to the marked location, which is east of the Ameyalco Waters. Once you arrive, you’ll find a wooden bridge with a view of the ocean.

Genshin Impact arrow indicating gap under bridge — Image courtesy of Pro Game Guides

Take note of the area beneath the bridge. There’s a small opening leading to an underground cave that you can drop into, which provides direct access to the boss’s domain.

Ningguang in Genshin Impact activating a Teleport Waypoint — Screenshot courtesy of Pro Game Guides

Inside the cave, follow the path until you reach the area where the boss resides. Make sure to activate the Teleport Waypoint for easier access during farming sessions.

From Version 5.0 onward, you no longer have to wait two minutes for boss respawns. After taking down the boss, teleport away to any location outside the cave, and then return to make the boss respawn immediately.

Strategies to Conquer the Secret Source Automaton: Configuration Device & Collect Gold-Inscribed Secret Source Code in Genshin Impact

To claim the Gold-Inscribed Secret Source Code, you must defeat the Secret Source Automaton: Configuration Device and then open its Trounce Blossom using 40 Original Resin. This battle poses a greater challenge than some earlier bosses, but it offers an enjoyable experience, especially for those who appreciate unique mechanics.

Genshin Impact arrow indicating boss energy gauge — Image courtesy of Pro Game Guides

When the battle begins, you’ll notice the boss has an energy gauge that fills up when you use characters with the Nightsoul mode, a feature exclusive to characters from Natlan. Be sure to verify your character’s skill descriptions to see if they can utilize this mode. Once the gauge is filled, the boss will be stunned for a brief period.

Bringing a Nightsoul character isn’t necessary for this fight; it’s entirely optional, and my experience suggests it doesn’t significantly alter the fight’s difficulty.

Genshin Impact boss pillars during battle — Image courtesy of Pro Game Guides

The Secret Source Automaton will summon two pillars during the encounter. Each pillar contains an Accretion Mechanism that can only be destroyed through close-range attacks. However, you cannot simply climb the pillars, so you’ll need to be inventive with your methods to ascend. Here are my favorite strategies:

Utilize Kachina’s skill for vertical climbing.
Employ characters with good vertical mobility, such as Wanderer, Xianyun, or Xiao.
Build tall Geo constructs like Zhongli’s pillar, Albedo’s flower, or Geo Traveler’s boulder for assistance.

You only need to worry about climbing one pillar, as you can glide to the second one. Successfully destroying both Accretion Mechanisms will paralyze the boss for a short time.

Alternatively, you can opt to bypass the pillars entirely and use a ranged character, such as Ningguang, to target the boss from a distance. Skipping the Mechanism destruction will lead to increased attacks from the boss, but you can effectively handle the encounters by employing a shielding character.

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