A new leak reported by Game Rant has Genshin Impact fans buzzing with anticipation, as May 22 is now widely believed to be the date of a major announcement—possibly involving the long-awaited debut of Skirk, one of the game’s most mysterious and popular side characters. Whether it’s an animated short, a region teaser, or a character reveal, this event could mark a major turning point as the game prepares to close the Natlan arc and set the stage for Snezhnaya.
Why May 22 Could Be a Turning Point for Genshin Impact
Leaks from the Genshin Impact Leaks subreddit suggest that an animated short is set to premiere on May 22, a form of media HoYoverse reserves for more story-driven or lore-heavy content—unlike standard promotional character trailers. These shorts are typically used to hint at new regions or expand on important narrative arcs, such as previous teases of Khaenri’ah or the Fatui Harbingers.
With Skirk’s long-speculated playability seemingly confirmed for the near future, fans believe this upcoming short may finally spotlight her. Others argue that it’s still too early and that the teaser might instead shift focus toward the upcoming region of Nod-Krai, which has been hinted as a prelude to Snezhnaya.
Who Is Skirk and Why Is She So Anticipated?
Skirk is a fan-favorite character first mentioned and briefly alluded to during the Version 4.2 update. Known as the powerful mentor of Tartaglia (Childe), she trained him in the mysterious and dangerous Abyss. Despite not having made a direct appearance in the game until now, Skirk’s reputation as a formidable and enigmatic figure has earned her an almost mythical status in the community.
HoYoverse officially confirmed that Skirk will become playable in an upcoming update, and leaks suggest her banner may appear as early as June 18, assuming she occupies the first phase of the 6.0 update cycle.
While many fans were disappointed to hear that Capitano, one of the Fatui Harbingers, won’t be playable anytime soon, the news of Skirk’s arrival has softened the blow. Her Abyss-related backstory and potential sword-based combat style have only fueled more speculation and excitement.
What the Animated Short Might Reveal
Though some believe the animated short will focus on Skirk, others suggest it may serve as a broader teaser for Nod-Krai, the next likely destination after Natlan. This region is rumored to be part of Snezhnaya, the Cryo Archon’s nation, but will possibly act as a narrative midpoint before the full Snezhnaya arc begins.
Interestingly, Varka, the Grandmaster of the Knights of Favonius, is also speculated to appear. He has been mentioned repeatedly since Genshin’s early Mondstadt storylines, and his voice was teased during earlier updates. Since Nod-Krai is reportedly located north of Mondstadt, this short could finally mark Varka’s long-awaited reveal.
Even if the short is not Skirk-centric, it will likely offer valuable insights into the next era of Genshin’s narrative, closing the chapter on Natlan while preparing the ground for the frozen, politically volatile landscape of Snezhnaya.
What This Means for Update 6.0 and Beyond
Genshin Impact’s update pattern typically includes new characters and story developments every 6–7 weeks. Based on current timing and the leak’s implications, Version 6.0 could begin around June 18, placing Skirk’s debut shortly after the May 22 teaser.
If Skirk appears in the first banner of 6.0, it’s safe to assume her kit and lore will tie directly into the new regional and story developments. HoYoverse may even use the teaser to explore her Abyss training, her connection to Childe, or her role in the overarching conflict between Teyvat’s surface and subterranean powers.
This also aligns with HoYoverse’s trend of releasing cinematic shorts ahead of new regions, much like they did for Sumeru and Fontaine. If Nod-Krai is confirmed as the next explorable area, it will mark the beginning of the end for Genshin’s core Archon storyline as Snezhnaya looms on the horizon.
Explore more Genshin Impact news, leaks, and character breakdowns at ExploreGenshin.gg
