Genshin Impact’s banner lineup is heating up again with Version 5.6, and the latest leaks and speculations are giving players a lot to think about. From unexpected reruns to future cryo powerhouses and even early glimpses into Version 6.0, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know.

Version 5.6: A Calculated Trap or Strategic Jackpot?

According to recent sources like Team Mu and Hakushin, Version 5.6 will introduce two new characters:

Escoffier (5-Star Cryo Support)
Ifa (4-Star Anemo Catalyst)

Escoffier: A Powerhouse Cryo Support

Escoffier is already being hailed as a “literal power creep,” but not in a bad way. She’s a dedicated Cryo-Hydro team support who provides massive utility through resistance shred, healing, and consistent Cryo application. Her synergy with Furina is incredible, and she’s practically designed to be Skirk’s ideal partner.

This makes Escoffier the strongest cryo support released since Shenhe, and potentially even more impactful due to her universal team utility. Whether you play Freeze or Mono Cryo, she’s a high-priority pull—especially if you’re preparing for Skirk’s debut in 5.7.

Ifa: Visually Cool, But Not Quite Viable

Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for Ifa. While he boasts stylish design and interesting animations, he’s limited in practicality. As a 4-star, his only real value is as a healer or on-field DPS—but the catch is he needs C6 to even be serviceable in that DPS role. Even then, early beta impressions indicate that his damage potential is far too low to be relevant in the meta.

Reruns in 5.6: Surprise, It’s Raiden Shogun Again

Three reruns are confirmed for Version 5.6:

Navia
Kinich
Raiden Shogun

What’s shocking is Raiden Shogun’s return. This marks her second rerun within the same region, breaking HoYoverse’s usual one-rerun-per-region rule for Archons. But it’s clear this move isn’t about story relevance—it’s a sales tactic. Like the surprise Neuvillette + Zhongli banner, this one is designed to drive revenue before 5.7’s inevitable hype storm.

Rumors also suggest that Lynette and Laya will be featured 4-stars, though this is unconfirmed.

Final Verdict on 5.6

This is a classic “bait banner.” Raiden is guaranteed to generate sales, and Escoffier is meta-defining. If you’re low on Primogems, be warned: HoYoverse is likely trying to drain your stash before Version 5.7.

Version 5.7: Skirk & Mauulika on the Horizon

Prepare yourselves—Version 5.7 is set to be one of the most explosive updates of the Natlan arc.

Confirmed & Speculated Characters

Skirk (5-Star Cryo DPS): Highly anticipated and widely rumored to be the new top-tier Cryo unit.
Dahlia (4-Star Sword User): A new Mondstadt character expected to be introduced as an NPC in 5.6 and playable by 5.7.

Archon Rerun: Mauulika

5.7 is expected to feature the first rerun of Natlan’s Pyro Archon Mauulika, continuing the traditional Archon rerun cycle.

Other Rerun Possibilities:

Muani
Chaska
Emily
Alhaitham

There’s a growing queue of characters eligible for a rerun, so it’s likely that HoYoverse will pick whichever lineup aligns best with the story—and the sales forecast.

Version 5.8: The Rerun Festival Begins

No new characters are confirmed yet for 5.8, but we know the focus will shift heavily toward reruns—especially if it’s a prelude to 6.0 and a new region.

Depending on whether the story in 5.8 centers on Mondstadt or Inazuma, expect reruns for characters like Venti, Albedo, or Ei (Raiden Shogun).

There’s also speculation about a chronicle banner, but this depends on who needs a rerun before Nod-Krai (Region 7) begins.

Version 6.0: Conflict, Factions, and Playable Durin?

Playable Durin

No fewer than four reliable sources have now reported that Durin—yes, the same Durin from Dragonspine’s lore—will become a playable character in the 6.x cycle. Initially considered wishful thinking, this is now one of the most credible long-term leaks.

Banner Structure Speculation

According to BU forum sources, the 6.0 banner will heavily depend on which faction conflict HoYoverse chooses to spotlight:

Light vs. Dark = Expect a Celélys-aligned character.
SAR Regime vs. Outlaws = Expect Boss Lady or other anti-regime characters.

It all depends on how HoYoverse sets the tone for Nod-Krai’s story arc. Will it be war, rebellion, or internal strife?

Final Thoughts

With versions 5.6 to 6.0 shaping up to be some of the most consequential patches in Genshin’s history, it’s time to strategize your pulls carefully.

Escoffier is an instant meta pick—especially if you plan to pull Skirk later.
Raiden Shogun is a tempting rerun but be cautious. 5.7 might outshine everything.
Ifa is mostly a pass unless you’re a collector or really enjoy his design.

The 5.6 banner is likely a bait to spend before the real fireworks begin. So ask yourself—are you ready to resist?

And for more guides, banner analysis, and character builds, visit us at ExploreGenshin.gg.