Genshin Impact Version 5.7 kicks off its Phase 1 banners on June 18, 2025, running through July 8, 2025. This round introduces a new 5-star Cryo DPS, Skirk, alongside a re-run of Cryo support Shenhe in dual banners loaded with Freeze team potential.
Let’s break down both banners and who they’re best suited for.
🔹 Skirk Banner — Void Star’s Advent
- 5★: Skirk (Cryo/Sword)
- 4★: Diona (Cryo/Bow), Candace (Hydro/Polearm), Dahlia (Hydro/Catalyst)
Skirk debuts as a flexible on-field Cryo DPS. Her playstyle revolves around her Serpent Subtlety energy system and works best in Freeze teams. She excels at dealing high AoE damage with her Elemental Burst, which scales with stored Subtlety. Her ability to boost all party members’ Elemental Skill levels in Freeze comps adds extra value beyond just raw damage.
Whether you prefer stylish Cryo-infused normal attacks or quickswap AoE bursts, Skirk fits both. She thrives in AoE-heavy content like the Abyss, and even at C0, she delivers strong performance with smooth rotation potential.
🔹 Shenhe Banner — The Transcendent One Returns
- 5★: Shenhe (Cryo/Polearm)
- 4★: Diona (Cryo/Bow), Candace (Hydro/Polearm), Dahlia (Hydro/Catalyst)
Shenhe returns as the premier Cryo support, designed to buff Cryo damage and boost team crit potential. Her Icy Quill skill massively enhances Cryo DPS units like Ayaka or Ganyu, while her burst adds Cryo resistance shred and utility, all without requiring much on-field time.
She’s a go-to for anyone building a Cryo-centric team and even has value in physical comps like Eula, thanks to her Cryo application and debuffs.
Who Should You Pull?
If you’re deciding between the two:
- Pull Skirk if you want a powerful, flexible Cryo DPS with strong Freeze synergy and high AoE burst potential. She’s a solid long-term investment with great value even at low constellations.
- Pull Shenhe if you already have Cryo carries you love and want to supercharge them with a dedicated Cryo support. However, with newer supports like Escoffier now available, Shenhe isn’t quite as essential as she once was.
Both banners offer great Cryo synergy, but Skirk stands out as the more versatile and impactful pick in this patch.
