​The Genshin Impact Version 5.5 Special Program livestream, titled “Day of the Flame’s Return,” aired on March 14, 2025, unveiling a wealth of new content and updates that have left the community buzzing with excitement. From the introduction of new characters to engaging events and redeemable codes, here’s a breakdown of what players can anticipate in the upcoming update.​

New Characters Arriving in Version 5.5

One of the most exciting aspects of every new Genshin Impact update is the introduction of fresh characters, and Version 5.5 is no exception. This time, two new Electro characters are set to join the game, each bringing unique playstyles and personalities.

Varesa – The Unstoppable Force

• Element: Electro
• Weapon: Catalyst
• Rarity: 5-Star

Varesa is a larger-than-life character in both her reputation and physical strength. She is a renowned competitive eater and wrestler, famous for participating in Natlan’s most intense physical competitions. Her combat style blends brutal melee attacks with Electro-charged energy bursts, making her a formidable DPS unit. Unlike traditional Catalyst users who focus on ranged attacks, Varesa incorporates grappling moves and charged melee strikes, offering a fresh take on Catalyst-based combat.

Her Elemental Skill is rumored to allow her to perform a short-range dash attack, dealing Electro damage in a large area. Meanwhile, her Elemental Burst unleashes a devastating, full-power slam that generates Electro shockwaves, chaining between enemies for massive damage.

Iansan – The Dedicated Mentor

• Element: Electro
• Weapon: Polearm
• Rarity: 4-Star

A mentor and fitness instructor within the Pilgrimage of the Return of the Sacred Flame, Iansan is devoted to training warriors and helping people reach their full potential. She is a support-oriented character, capable of boosting her team’s attack speed and energy regeneration, making her an excellent addition to various party compositions.

Her Elemental Skill provides an Electro-based buff that enhances allies’ abilities while applying Electro damage over time to enemies in her vicinity. Her Elemental Burst triggers a field of electrified energy, which periodically heals nearby allies while dealing continuous Electro damage to opponents.

From March 26 – April 15, Varesa will debut in the first phase of the 5.5 update alongside Xianyun’s rerun banner. Both banners will feature the new 4-star character Iansan. Phase 2 will include the Xilonen’s first rerun and the return of the anemo archon, Venti from April 15 – May 6.

The Introduction of Ifa – The Saurian Whisperer

One of the most exciting reveals was the long-awaited Ifa, a veterinarian and expert caretaker of Natlan’s Saurians.​

• Element: Anemo​
• Weapon: Catalyst (Unconfirmed)​
• Rarity: 5-Star (Unconfirmed)​

Ifa is a member of the Flower-Feather Clan, a society dedicated to protecting Natlan’s wildlife, particularly the Saurians—massive reptilian creatures native to the region. He is known for his deep bond with these creatures, and his companion, Cacucu, follows him wherever he goes.​

While his weapon and exact abilities remain unconfirmed, leaks suggest that he may be a support-oriented Catalyst user, focusing on healing and movement speed boosts. Ifa will play a key role in the upcoming Tournament of Glory in Bloom, an event where players tame and train Saurians for competitive trials.

New Events and Features in Version 5.5

Version 5.5 introduces a variety of new events and features to enrich the player experience.​

Tournament of Glory in Bloom

The flagship event of this update is the Tournament of Glory in Bloom, which combines capture-the-flag mechanics with Saurian training challenges. Players will tame, command, and ride different Saurians while competing in various mini-games. Rewards include Primogems, Talent Level-Up Materials, and a new 4-star weapon.​

New Area Explorations

Version 5.5 unlocks previously unseen parts of Natlan, featuring new enemy types, puzzles, and hidden treasures. Exploration-based events will reward players who uncover ancient ruins and solve elemental puzzles.​

Artifact Salvaging and Enhancements

A notable quality-of-life improvement is the ability to salvage leveled Artifacts to obtain Artifact Enhancement Materials. This feature allows players to recycle unused or less desirable Artifacts, making the enhancement process more efficient.​

Cross-Scene Quest Tracking

The update also introduces cross-scene tracking for Quests, eliminating the need to manually select Map scenes. This streamlines the questing experience, allowing for smoother navigation and progression.

Final Thoughts

With new characters, an expanded Natlan storyline, and exciting events, Genshin Impact Version 5.5 is shaping up to be one of the most feature-packed updates yet. Whether you’re looking forward to pulling for Varesa and Iansan, exploring Natlan’s evolving lore, or training Saurians in the Tournament of Glory in Bloom, there’s something for everyone in this update!