A new report from Gamerant claims that Genshin Impact Version 5.6 is set to introduce several long-awaited lore characters, including Varka, Alice, Barbeloth, and even Durin. As HoYoverse ramps up toward the conclusion of the Teyvat storyline, players are in for one of the most lore-rich updates the game has ever seen.
With the path to Snezhnaya finally opening up, this patch may lay the foundation for the long-anticipated Cryo Nation and push Mondstadt’s characters back into the spotlight.
❄️ Setting the Stage: Nod-Krai and the Frozen Frontier
Version 5.6 appears to lay critical groundwork for the upcoming Nod-Krai region, believed to be the southern province of Snezhnaya. This location has been hinted at in several official teasers and will likely serve as the Traveler’s next major destination as they inch closer to the Cryo Nation’s heart.
While players won’t yet reach Celestia or fully confront Khaenri’ah, leaks suggest that 5.6 will kick off storylines with deep ties to both regions—and introduce characters who have been referenced since Genshin Impact’s early days.
🛡️ Varka and the Knights of Favonius Return
The most anticipated debut is undoubtedly Varka, the elusive Grandmaster of the Knights of Favonius. Until now, Varka has only existed in voice lines and lore entries, known for leading an expedition far beyond Mondstadt. According to leaker Dimbreath, Varka will finally speak in Version 5.6, though it’s still unclear whether he’ll become playable or remain a major NPC.
His presence connects directly to the growing conflict in Nod-Krai, as a crucial Mondstadt faction—the Knights of Favonius—takes the spotlight once again.
🔮 The Hexenzirkel Emerges: Alice and Barbeloth Speak
Also making their voiced debut are Alice and Barbeloth, both powerful witches and known members of the Hexenzirkel, a mysterious coven of magic users that includes Mona’s teacher and Klee’s mother. So far, the Hexenzirkel has only appeared in seasonal events like Summer Fantasia, but that’s about to change.
Alice’s long-awaited appearance could finally shed light on Teyvat’s magical systems, while Barbeloth may deepen the lore behind Astrology and Star Magic. The fact that HoYoverse is introducing them together may hint at future gameplay relevance or a potential Hexenzirkel-themed story arc.
🐉 Durin’s Resurrection and the Return to Dragonspine
Perhaps the most shocking development is the mention of Durin—the legendary dragon whose remains slumber in Dragonspine. According to leaks, the resurrection of Durin will be a major focus of Version 5.6’s Archon Quest. This plotline could tie directly into characters like Albedo, Eula, and the recently datamined Dahlia, who’s set to make his voiced debut in the same update.
Durin’s return would mark a dramatic shift for Mondstadt’s story, and if the leak suggesting Durin could eventually become playable holds true, it would mark one of Genshin Impact’s boldest moves yet—allowing players to control a character tied to one of the world’s original antagonists.
⚔️ Who is Dahlia?
Leaker Dimbreath also notes that Dahlia, a deacon from the Church of Favonius, will appear in Version 5.6’s quest content but will not be playable until Version 5.7. Currently believed to be a 4-star sword user, Dahlia may take on a supporting role as the narrative explores Mondstadt’s religious and political complexities.
As a new religious figure, he could become a key player in future storylines involving the Archons and the Faith vs. Knowledge dichotomy seen in earlier regions like Sumeru.
🎙️ Voice Actor Shakeups: SAG-AFTRA Strike Impact
One major wrinkle in all of this is the SAG-AFTRA video game strike, which may continue to impact Genshin Impact’s English voice cast. While characters like Varka, Alice, and Durin are set to receive voiced roles, it’s unclear if they will appear fully voiced in all languages at launch.
The recent recasting of Kinich due to the strike drew backlash, especially as the replacement actor was accused of crossing picket lines. Whether HoYoverse will delay some voice lines or proceed with temporary casting remains unknown.
📅 When Does Version 5.6 Launch?
Version 5.6 is expected to release on May 7, aligning with Genshin Impact’s usual 6-week patch cycle. If all of these leaks hold true, this update could be one of the most lore-heavy patches in the game’s history, setting the tone for Version 6.0 and beyond.
🧠 Final Thoughts – A Turning Point for Genshin’s Lore?
Between Varka, the Hexenzirkel, Durin, and the looming arrival of Snezhnaya, Version 5.6 may be remembered as the update that connects Mondstadt’s past to Teyvat’s future.
If HoYoverse continues this trend of finally introducing fan-favorite lore characters into the main story, the final arcs of Genshin Impact may be even more ambitious than we imagined.
For more up-to-date character news, story breakdowns, and patch leaks, visit ExploreGenshin.gg — your trusted source for Genshin Impact analysis and community coverage.
