HoYoverse has confirmed the global release of Genshin Impact's 5.7 update for June 18, 2025 at 11:00 AM Beijing time. The new version brings the highly anticipated debut of Skirk as a playable character, along with new quests, limited-time banners, and special events. Players in all regions can now prepare for the maintenance period preceding the update. The initial phase will also include the return of Shenhe and Hydro Dahlia support.
In addition to new characters, Genshin Impact version 5.7 expands the main narrative with another chapter of the Archons' Quest focused on the confrontation with the Order of the Abyss. The update also includes improvements to the reward system, new features on mobile, and brand new combat challenges. The content was revealed during HoYoverse's special pre-launch program. Community anticipation revolves around the debut of the Stygian Onslaught mode and the Akademiya tactical mini-game.
Skirk joins the cast as the new five-star Cryo
Skirk will finally be released as a playable character after years of speculation in the community. Known as Childe's mentor and Surtalogi's former apprentice, the Abyss warrior arrives with a dual combat style alternating between sustained physical attacks and elemental area bursts. Her unique mechanics dispense with elemental energy and utilize a unique resource called Serpent's Subtlety that requires strategy to maximize damage.
The character will be featured in the first banner alongside Shenhe and Dahlia, offering special synergy in teams composed solely of Cryo and Hydro users. The five-star Bluish Light sword will also be available in the weapons banner. Players who invest in this set will have access to powerful compositions focused on frozen reactions and constant attack buffs.
The Archons' new mission takes the player to the heart of the conflict in Natlan
The main narrative continues with the unfolding of the Archons' Mission, now exploring the Order of the Abyss's plan in Natlan. The new chapter brings revelations about the Traveler's brother and features Dainsleif in a new role. Mavuika and his allies enter the scene as defenders of the territory as the shadows of the Abyss intensify.
The events of the story promise to expand the political and emotional complexity of the plot, deepening the relationship between the protagonist brothers. The setting in Natlan strengthens the tension of the plot and introduces new dilemmas about loyalty and power. HoYoverse is betting on this narrative to capture the attention of veteran players and attract those seeking an immersive experience.
Dahlia is revealed as the new Hydro support with a focus on shield and speed
Dahlia, the deacon of the Church of Favonius, is presented as a versatile four-star support character. His kit revolves around creating shields that regenerate through normal attacks or freeze reactions. Additionally, his passive talent increases the attack speed of allies, creating opportunities for aggressive team compositions.
Dahlia's elemental ability also allows her to manipulate the battlefield by launching allies into the air or dealing direct Hydro damage to enemies. These characteristics make her a valuable addition to teams focused on crowd control and sustained damage. Being easily accessible in the first phase of the update, the character promises good acceptance among free-to-play players.
The new permanent combat mode will be a challenge for experienced players
Genshin Impact version 5.7 introduces Stygian Onslaught, a permanent combat mode with three rotating bosses and six increasing difficulty levels. The challenge offers artifacts as rewards, in addition to the new Dust of Enlightenment item which allows rerolling secondary bonuses on level 20 artifacts. This new feature addresses a long-standing community demand for greater control over character optimization.
HoYoverse will also implement improvements to the use of Fragile Resin, allowing for triple rewards in Domains and Ley Lines. This change aims to facilitate progression for those playing with limited time. Along with the new mode, the update includes Envisaged Echoes challenges for characters like Raiden Shogun and Shenhe, strengthening endgame content.
Limited-time events bring tactical minigames and side stories
One of the highlights of the update is the Akademiya event, a strategy minigame that mixes team building, luck, and alternative paths on themed forest and desert routes. Players can strengthen their characters, collect buffs with Paimon, and participate in alternative narratives. Upon completing the event, it will be possible to add Sethos to the team as a playable character.
Furthermore, the Traveler's Tales chapter returns with short stories set in various regions of Teyvat. Neuvillette visits Merusea Village, Thoma returns to Mondstadt, and Dori negotiates with Sayu in Inazuma. Thus, these tales offer lighter and more relaxed moments in the intervals between the main missions, maintaining a pleasant pace of gameplay.
HoYoverse announces launch and maintenance schedules by region
HoYoverse will release Genshin Impact version 5.7 globally on June 18, 2025 at 11:00 AM Beijing time. In Brazil, due to the time difference, the content will be available from 11:00 PM on June 17 (Brasilia time).
Server maintenance will begin approximately five hours before the official launch, and players will receive Primogems as compensation for the downtime.
Here are some of the main schedules by region:
- Pacific (PDT): June 17th at 8 PM
- Central (CDT): June 17th at 10 PM
- Brasilia (BRT): June 17th at 11 PM
- London (WEST): June 18th at 4am
- Berlin (CEST): June 18th at 5 AM
- Tokyo/Seoul (JST/KST): June 18th at 12 PM
Players are advised to complete important activities before maintenance begins to avoid losing rewards or progress.
