As a Teyvat traveler who’s been grinding since the early days, I can tell you that the second half of Genshin Impact’s Version 5.1 banners—way back in November 2024—were a genuine bombshell. Now, in 2026, I’m looking back at that lineup and realizing just how much it shaped the meta we play today. HoYoverse dropped Nahida and Hu Tao alongside a 4-star core that included Kuki Shinobu, Xingqiu, and Sethos. And yes, the Staff of Homa was on the weapon banner. If you missed it then, you’ve probably felt the FOMO ever since. 🔥
Let me break down why this particular banner phase was such a big deal, and what it means for us in 2026.
The Event Banners: A Powerhouse Combo
The headline acts were Nahida and Hu Tao. Nahida, the Dendro Archon, brought unmatched elemental application and mastery. Hu Tao, the Pyro polearm queen, delivered insane single-target damage. Put them together? You got a match made in Teyvat heaven. 🔥
The full 5-star and 4-star lineup was:
| Character | Rarity | Element | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nahida | 5★ | Dendro | Off-field Dendro application, EM buffer |
| Hu Tao | 5★ | Pyro | Main DPS, charged attack vape |
| Kuki Shinobu | 4★ | Electro | Healer, Hyperbloom trigger |
| Xingqiu | 4★ | Hydro | Off-field Hydro application, damage reduction |
| Sethos | 4★ | Electro | Dendro reaction enabler, charged shot DPS |
I remember pulling on this banner and feeling like I’d unlocked a new account. The synergy was off the charts.
The 4-Star Hyperbloom Core
Don’t sleep on these 4-stars! Xingqiu, Kuki Shinobu, and Sethos formed a Hyperbloom core that took my Spiral Abyss clears to the next level. Here’s the lowdown:
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Xingqiu and Kuki Shinobu: A dynamic duo for Hyperbloom reactions. Xingqiu’s rainswords apply Hydro, Kuki’s ring triggers Hyperbloom with Dendro cores, and her healing keeps you alive.
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Sethos: Your go-to for Dendro reactions. His Electro application and charged shot playstyle make him a fun and effective trigger for Aggravate or Hyperbloom.
Trust me, with these three on your team, you’ll be crushing those Abyss challenges in no time. Even in 2026, this core remains a budget-friendly powerhouse.
The Staff of Homa Returns
Calling all weapon collectors! The Staff of Homa, Hu Tao’s signature weapon, was up for grabs. This isn’t just any old stick—it’s a game-changer for characters like Zhongli and Xiangling too. I’ve seen players test their luck and completely revolutionize their arsenal. 🎰
In 2026, the Staff of Homa is still considered one of the best polearms in the game, though newer options have arrived. If you snagged it back then, congratulations—you’re set for years.
What Came Next: Version 5.2 and Beyond
Version 5.1 ran until November 20, 2024, when Version 5.2 dropped. Word on the street back then was that we might see Chasca, Lyney, Zhongli, and Neuvillette in the spotlight. Plus, Ororon, a new 4-star character, made his debut. The hype was real.
Now, in 2026, we’ve seen those characters become staples in many team compositions. Chasca’s flying gunplay, Lyney’s mono-Pyro, Zhongli’s unbreakable shield, and Neuvillette’s hydro cannon—they all left their mark. But the 5.1 second half was the turning point for many accounts.
Pro Gamer Moves for 2026
If you’re still playing (or returning after a break), here are some pro tips that originated from that banner phase:
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Build that Hyperbloom core with Xingqiu, Kuki Shinobu, and Sethos. It’s cheap, effective, and clears most content.
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Don’t underestimate the power of the Staff of Homa—if you have it, refine it or slap it on any polearm DPS.
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Start saving those Primogems for upcoming banners. In 2026, we’re looking at Version 6.x and beyond, so primogem management is key.
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Experiment with different team comps—you might discover the next meta. The 5.1 banner taught us that off-field application and reaction synergy rule supreme.
Final Thoughts
Genshin Impact’s Version 5.1 second half banners were here to level up your game. With Nahida, Hu Tao, and that stellar 4-star lineup, plus the Staff of Homa, there had never been a better time to dive into Teyvat. Now, in 2026, I still look back at that period as one of the most impactful banner phases in the game’s history.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to show those Hilichurls who’s boss! 💪
Stay tuned for more updates and pro tips by following EarlyGG on social media. See you in Teyvat, Travelers!