In a nutshell

• Varka finally playable as a 5-star Anemo claymore wielder with dual-wield combat.
• Return to Mondstadt with flagship events like Echoes of Memory, Combat Challenges, and beverage crafting.
• New mini-games and cosmetics, including the Owl Envoy set and Phantasmal Gift weapon appearance.

HoYoverse has announced that Genshin Impact Version Luna V, “Song of the Welkin Moon: Variation — Homeward, He Who Caught the Wind,” will officially launch on February 25, 2026.

This Genshin Impact update invites players to revisit Mondstadt, the city where their journey first began, while introducing new events, mini-games, and the long-awaited debut of Varka, Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius.

Varka Joins the Playable Roster in Genshin Impact

After years of anticipation, Varka finally becomes a playable character in Genshin Impact. Known as the Knight of Boreas and Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius, he arrives as a 5-star Anemo claymore wielder with a unique dual-wield combat style.

• His Elemental Skill enhances Normal Attacks and adapts his right-hand claymore’s element based on teammates (Pyro, Hydro, Electro, or Cryo), while his left-hand claymore consistently deals Anemo DMG.
• His Hexerei effect boosts his ability to chain special Elemental Skills and Charged Attacks without consuming stamina.
• Completing his battles against Wolf Spirit fragments unlocks a new weapon appearance for free.

Players can also explore his Story Quest, where Varka leads allies against a new Wild Hunt calamity threatening the Great Wolf King of the North.

Events and Mini-Games

Version Luna V introduces several flagship events and mini-games:

• Echoes of Memory: Use the Spotter Kamera to capture subtle differences in familiar Mondstadt scenes.
• Crafting Beverages: Reconnect with old acquaintances by creating drinks tailored to their tastes.
• Combat Challenges: Summon Knight Shadows to exploit enemy weaknesses and earn the crystal ball–inspired weapon appearance “Phantasmal Gift: Star Omen.”
• Gliding Challenges: Test your aerial skills in Mondstadt’s skies.
• New Mini-Games: Kamera challenges across Natlan, Fontaine, and Sumeru, strategic defense modes, and updates to Travelers’ Tales.

Additionally, players can unlock the “Owl Envoy” Manekin/Manekina cosmetic set for free.

Event Wishes and Character Reruns

The update also features new Event Wishes:

• Phase 1: Varka’s debut alongside Flins.
• Phase 2: Skirk and Escoffier return.
• Chronicled Wish: Mondstadt characters make a comeback.