Genshin Impact Version Luna V Launches February 25 with Varka Debut

HoYoverse has announced that Genshin Impact Version Luna V, titled “Song of the Welkin Moon: Variation — Homeward, He Who Caught the Wind,” will launch on February 25.

The update brings players back to Mondstadt, introduces Varka as a new 5-star playable character, and features a major flagship event centered around revisiting early moments in the game’s story.

Varka Joins as 5-Star Anemo Claymore User

Varka, Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, will officially become playable in Version Luna V. Long referenced in Mondstadt’s storyline, Varka makes his debut as a 5-star Anemo claymore wielder with a dual-wield combat style.

His kit allows him to deal two different types of Elemental DMG simultaneously. Varka’s Elemental Skill enhances his Normal Attacks and converts the damage type of his right-hand claymore based on teammates’ elements — Pyro, Hydro, Electro, or Cryo — while his left-hand claymore continues dealing Anemo DMG.

He can also activate enhanced Normal Attacks more frequently to trigger a special Elemental Skill or a unique Charged Attack that does not consume Stamina. His Hexerei effect further increases his ability uptime and overall damage output.

Players will also be able to unlock a new weapon appearance for both of his weapons after defeating a Wolf Spirit fragment during gameplay.

Event Wishes and Mondstadt Chronicled Wish Return

Varka’s debut banner will headline the first phase of Event Wishes alongside a rerun of Flins. The second phase will feature returning characters Skirk and Escoffier.

The Mondstadt-themed Chronicled Wish banner will also return during this update.

Flagship Mondstadt Event: Echoes of Memory

Version Luna V’s main event invites players back to Mondstadt to relive early-game memories.

In the event “Echoes of Memory,” players revisit familiar locations that feature subtle changes. Using the Spotter Kamera, players must identify and document these differences.

Other event activities include:

• A beverage crafting activity involving familiar Mondstadt characters
• Gliding and Combat Challenges
• A Combat Challenge mechanic where players summon Knight Shadows to break enemy defenses

Completing challenges rewards players with a crystal ball–inspired Catalyst weapon appearance titled “Phantasmal Gift: Star Omen.”

New Mini-Games and Free Cosmetic Rewards

The update also introduces several mini-games and system updates, including:

• A Kamera challenge featuring locations across Natlan, Fontaine, and Sumeru
• A strategic defense gameplay mode
• Updates to Travelers’ Tales
• The launch of a new voice feature in Miliastra Wonderland

Players can earn a new Manekin/Manekina cosmetic set, “Owl Envoy,” through in-game events at no cost.