Genshin Impact’s version 7.1 update brings two brand-new playable characters and, if the current leaks hold, a pair of returning Cryo units. Vesna and Vodyanitsa are already confirmed by HoYoverse’s drip marketing, while the rerun lineup is still circulating as unofficial information ahead of the version’s Special Program.
Quick answer: Version 7.1 adds Vesna (Anemo) and Vodyanitsa (Hydro) as new characters. Skirk and Escoffier are the two Cryo units expected to get rerun banners. The full banner order isn’t official yet and will be confirmed during the version 7.1 Special Program, expected to livestream on September 11, 2026.
New characters in version 7.1
HoYoverse has confirmed that Vesna and Vodyanitsa join the roster in 7.1. Vesna is an Anemo character built around damage, while Vodyanitsa is a Hydro character built around team support. Both hail from Snezhnaya.
Vesna carries a Stellar Linchpin, which means her playable kit can trigger Stellar Glimmer reactions. Her damage is focused on Stellar Swirl, and beta testing points to a main DPS role. Vodyanitsa, on the other hand, uses a standard Vision, so she cannot set off any Stellar reactions. She shreds enemy Hydro and Cryo resistance and provides healing plus interruption resistance to the team, and beta leaks tag her as a 5-star.
| Character | Element | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vesna | Anemo | Main DPS | Stellar Linchpin, kit centered on Stellar Swirl DMG |
| Vodyanitsa | Hydro | Support | Standard Vision, shreds Hydro/Cryo RES, healing and interruption resistance; rumored 5-star |
Leaked rerun banners: Skirk and Escoffier
The two returning units tipped for 7.1 are Skirk and Escoffier, both Cryo. Skirk is a strong Cryo main DPS, and Escoffier is one of the best Cryo support units in the game. The two work well together, so seeing them share a version isn’t a surprise if the leak is accurate.
This rerun information comes from the leaker Kuroo, who has a solid track record. Even so, treat it as unconfirmed until HoYoverse announces the event wishes officially.
Banner order and phases
The exact phase order for version 7.1 has not been officially announced. Based on the drip marketing, Vesna is likely to appear in the first half and Vodyanitsa in the second half. Since the schedule isn’t locked, the placement of the Skirk and Escoffier reruns across the two phases is also still open.
When the banners get confirmed
The official banner reveal happens at the version 7.1 Special Program, which is expected to livestream on September 11, 2026. That broadcast typically confirms the featured characters, the phase order, and the accompanying weapon banners. Until then, the character names for the new units are solid, but the rerun list and phasing remain leaks that can change.
If you’re planning your Primogem budget, the safest read right now is to prepare for Vesna and Vodyanitsa as the confirmed new arrivals, and to keep Skirk and Escoffier in mind as likely reruns without treating their timing as final.
