Hello, Travelers! The Version 5.7 adjustments for the new character Skirk (v3) have been released. As anticipated, the changes are modest: increased multipliers, a 1-second cooldown reduction on her Elemental Skill, and a slight boost to her Elemental Burst. Her second Constellation also received a minor enhancement.
5.7 Banner Overview
Based on data-mined information, the 5.7 banners are unlikely to change. The first half features Skirk alongside the new character Escoffier, while the second half includes the Pyro Archon and a Shenhe rerun. For pull priorities, it's recommended to consider Mavika first, followed by Skirk.
The Pyro Archon synergizes well with existing characters. For instance, pairing Navia with Bennett creates a strong double Pyro and double Geo team composition, which is currently effective in both the overworld and Spiral Abyss. Skirk's strength lies in her impressive stats and damage amplification talents. Pulling for a C0 Skirk can diversify team compositions. However, her design has notable issues, particularly her reliance on specific team setups, making her susceptible to counter-strategies. This design choice might be an attempt to control power creep towards the end of a version cycle.
5.8 Banner Adjustments
There have been changes to the 5.8 banners. According to leaker Mero, no new character IDs have been added, and there's no credible information suggesting a new Hydro female character in 5.8. Previous rumors about a new 5-star Hydro female character stemmed from a leaker who accurately revealed details about Taliyah and Skirk's abilities. The original statement was that "5.8 will feature her superior, who is also Hydro," leading many to speculate about a new 5-star Hydro character.
If 5.8 indeed lacks a new 5-star character, the banner lineup will likely include Mavika, Chaska, the Pyro Archon, Nahida, and a mixed banner. Notably, from Version 1.0 to 4.8, Genshin Impact consistently introduced 17 characters per major version. However, Versions 5.0 to 5.7 have only added 16 characters. Additionally, a new map area remains unopened, and the Statue of The Seven's level isn't maxed out, making the absence of new characters in 5.8 seem unlikely. Furthermore, the new area "Abyssal Sea" is confirmed to open in 5.8. Without new characters, the local specialties and enemies in this region would lack purpose.
5.8 Fontaine Skins
Regarding the highly anticipated 5.8 skins, regions like Liyue, Mondstadt, Inazuma, and Sumeru have already received character skins. Only Fontaine and Natlan remain. Given that Natlan hasn't been introduced yet, the two upcoming skins will undoubtedly be for Fontaine characters. The most prevalent theories suggest skins for Navia and the journalist, or for Lyney and Lynette. Expect skin concept art to surface soon, so stay tuned.
Durin's Arrival in Version 6.2
Exciting news for lore enthusiasts: Durin is confirmed to join the playable roster in Version 6.2! He possesses a Vision, albeit a counterfeit one provided by Lisa for disguise purposes. Durin utilizes a new element distinct from the traditional seven and doesn't engage in elemental reactions. He boasts impressive overworld capabilities; activating his Elemental Skill unfolds wings with glowing patterns. Even when off-field, he can remain airborne and assist in attacks, making him the first character capable of simultaneously occupying both on-field and off-field roles. Currently, his duration is relatively short, but adjustments may be made in future updates.
That's all for today's updates. For more upcoming news, be sure to follow along!