Source: Game Rant
Read the full report for more details on Genshin Impact’s Version 5.6 leaks.
Genshin Impact’s upcoming Version 5.6 is shaping up to be a major update, with new characters like Escoffier and Ifa, new regions, and fresh events. But alongside the hype comes a newly leaked four-star free weapon—and fans aren’t thrilled.
According to a leak reported by Game Rant, players will be able to obtain a free four-star bow through a limited-time event in 5.6. While that sounds like great news on paper, the weapon’s stats and design have sparked widespread disappointment in the community.
What We Know About the New Free Bow in Version 5.6
Based on the leak, the upcoming free bow is tailored toward HP-scaling characters, offering an unusual stat distribution that limits its utility for most bow users.
Here’s a breakdown of the leaked stats:
- Weapon Type: Bow
- Rarity: Four-star
- Base ATK: 510
- Secondary Stat: +41.4% HP
- Passive Effect: When hitting an enemy, triggers AoE damage at the target’s location that scales with the character’s max HP. Can only activate once every 15 seconds.
At first glance, the bow might seem like a niche support or sub-DPS option. But the reliance on max HP makes it useful only for a very small number of characters—primarily Hydro bow users, who are rare to begin with.
Why Fans Are Disappointed
While free weapons in Genshin Impact are always appreciated, this one feels underwhelming. The main criticisms from players include:
- Limited viability: Only a handful of characters could make proper use of HP-scaling bows. As of Version 5.6, only three Hydro bow characters exist: Tartaglia, Yelan, and Sigewinne. Of those, only Yelan has meaningful HP-scaling mechanics.
- Passive cooldown: The AoE passive only triggers once every 15 seconds, limiting its usefulness in combat, especially in high-paced teams or rotations.
- Unsynergistic base ATK: Though the bow’s base ATK has been buffed, this stat doesn’t benefit HP-scaling characters much—especially Hydro units, who prioritize HP% and Crit stats.
In short, the bow appears to have been designed with a very narrow character archetype in mind, which severely limits its potential across most team compositions.
Is a New Character Being Teased?
Despite the lukewarm reception, some fans are speculating that this bow is meant for a future character—possibly a four-star Hydro or HP-scaling bow user that has yet to be revealed. This wouldn’t be unprecedented; HoYoverse has introduced weapons and artifact sets in the past that didn’t make sense until new characters were released.
It’s worth noting that Escoffier, the new five-star Cryo user from Fontaine, and Ifa, a four-star Anemo catalyst user from Natlan, are both confirmed for Version 5.6. Neither fits the profile for this bow, which strengthens the theory that another HP-scaling bow character could be on the way.
Until then, Yelan remains the only practical user of the weapon—though even for her, stronger options like Favonius Warbow or her signature Aqua Simulacra remain preferred choices.
How It Compares to Past Free Weapons
Genshin has had a mixed history when it comes to free weapons. Some, like the Cinnabar Spindle or The Catch, became staple picks for certain characters. Others, however, were quickly forgotten due to poor synergy or overly specific use cases.
In comparison, the Version 5.5 free weapon, Tamayuratei no Ohanashi, was a polearm with strong refinements available through event progression—something that players appreciated for its versatility. The 5.6 bow, however, doesn’t seem to follow that same impactful trajectory.
Final Thoughts: A Missed Opportunity?
While getting a free weapon is always better than nothing, many in the community feel this new bow doesn’t live up to expectations. Its HP-based scaling, slow cooldown, and low versatility make it feel more like a placeholder than a meaningful reward.
That said, we may need to wait for the full release of Version 5.6 to see if any new content or characters change our perspective. If a new HP-scaling bow character is announced, the bow’s value could increase significantly.
Until then, temper your expectations—and maybe keep your Acquaint Fates and weapon enhancement materials reserved for better gear.
Looking for build advice, team synergies, or pre-patch character prep for Version 5.6? Head over to ExploreGenshin.gg for in-depth guides, tier lists, and the latest banner news.
Frequently Asked Questions about League of Legends PBE Download
What is the new free weapon in Genshin Impact 5.6?
It’s a four-star bow with 510 base ATK, 41.4% HP as a secondary stat, and a passive that deals AoE HP-scaled damage every 15 seconds.
Which characters can use the new 5.6 bow effectively?
Currently, only Yelan can benefit from its HP scaling, though it may be designed for an unreleased character.
Is the 5.6 free bow good?
Most players believe it’s underwhelming due to its slow cooldown and niche stat focus. It lacks general versatility.
How do I get the free 5.6 bow in Genshin Impact?
You’ll be able to obtain it through a limited-time event during Version 5.6. Refinements may also be available via event objectives.
Is a new HP-scaling bow user coming soon?
It’s possible. The bow’s unique design may hint at a future character whose kit synergizes with HP scaling.
How does this bow compare to other free weapons?
Compared to past free options like The Catch or Cinnabar Spindle, this bow appears less impactful and more niche.
