One of the highlights of Genshin Impact 6.0 is the generous anniversary rewards, featuring a free 5-star character selector from the Standard Banner and a new permanent event offering a free 5-star constellation (Stella Fortuna). In this article, we'll break down these rewards, the available options, and expert recommendations on which to pick to optimize your roster.
This selector is available from September 10, 2025, until October 21, 2025. Additionally, the new "To Temper Thyself and Journey Far" event provides a free Stella Fortuna, unlocking a constellation for one of 25 eligible 5-star characters.
Which 5-Star to pick using the Selector?
Your choice should align with your team needs, existing roster, and playstyle. Here's a prioritized breakdown based on meta relevance and utility:
- Tighnari - Top pick for Dendro teams. He's a strong quick-swap DPS in Aggravate or Spread comps, especially with Nahida or Fischl. His constellations boost damage significantly, and he's less common in lost 50/50s. Ideal if you lack Dendro options.
- Mona - Excellent for Burst damage amplification via her Omen debuff. Pairs well with Furina or in Vaporize/Freeze teams. Her C1 enhances Hydro reactions by 15%, making her a staple support.
- Jean - Boosted by recent updates like Furina synergy. She's a healer with Anemo VV shred, great for Swirl teams. C4 reduces enemy Anemo RES, adding team-wide value.
- Diluc - Solid Pyro DPS, improved in Plunge teams with Xianyun. Good for beginners needing a reliable main carry, but falls off in endgame without investment.
- Keqing - Fun Electro hypercarry for Aggravate. Her mobility shines in exploration, but she's outclassed by newer units unless you invest in constellations.
- Dehya - Niche tank for interruption-resistant teams. Useful in co-op or against tough bosses, but low damage output makes her lower priority.
- Qiqi - Pure healer, but overshadowed by better options like Baizhu. Only pick if you need Cryo healing desperately.
Pro Tip: If you already own multiples (e.g., high constellations on one), select that character for Masterless Stella Fortuna to push toward level 100 ascension. Focus on maxing one Standard character over time for efficiency.
The Free Constellation: "To Temper Thyself and Journey Far" Event
This permanent event, launching with 6.0, runs in 12-week seasons (Season 1: September 10 to December 1, 2025), with up to four per year. It rewards active play, offering one free Stella Fortuna per season. You must own the character to claim it, and each can only receive one ever (no stacking on the same unit). If selected for a C6 character, you get a Masterless Stella Fortuna for level 100 ascension.
Which Constellation to Pick?
Prioritize limited characters over Standard ones, as the latter are easier to obtain via lost 50/50s or the anniversary selector. Many C1s are underwhelming, so aim for breakpoints that enhance playstyle. Here's a tiered recommendation based on impact:
- Nilou (C1 or C2) - Highest priority. C1 extends Skill duration; C2 shreds Hydro/Dendro RES. Essential for Bloom teams, especially with new Dendro synergies.
- Baizhu (C2) - Boosts off-field healing and Dendro application. Great if you have C1 already.
- Hu Tao (C1) - Removes Stamina costs on Charged Attacks, smoothing her gameplay.
- Yae Miko (C2) - Upgrades totems to Level 4 with increased range. Strong if you have C1.
- Xiao (C1) - Adds an extra Skill charge, reducing Burst energy needs.
- Ayaka (C2) - Enhances Burst with extra hits for better coverage.
- Shenhe (C1) - Adds Skill charge for more Cryo support utility.
- Ganyu (C1) - Shreds Cryo RES on Charged Attacks.
- Wanderer (C2) - Massive early damage spike post-C1.
- Cyno (C2 or C3) - Power boosts for invested players.
Lower priorities include Klee (C2 for DEF shred), Jean (C4 for Anemo shred, but skippable if she's your free 5-star), and others like Qiqi or Albedo, whose cons are niche. Avoid if you plan to C6 for Masterless Stella Fortuna later.