Skirk is confirmed as the main promoted character (DPS), Columbina will be added to the banner in the 6.X update. This ties into the storyline progression.

Key Updates:

2024-11-25

Skirk will be the final main promoted character for Version 5. Strength-focused players should pull for her after the Pyro Archon.

2024-12-20

(Regarding Skirk being a DPS)
Agreed.

(Regarding Albedo’s storyline)
I think it’s more realistic to wait for Durin’s revival in Dragonspine, though this might happen only after the main storyline in Snezhnaya.

Unlike previous major region releases, version 6.0 will not open Snezhnaya’s main city map immediately. We’ll only go there during the climax of the main storyline.

2024-12-21

(Regarding Columbina not entering a Natlan banner)
This needs clarification to avoid misunderstanding. Columbina’s playable period has already been scheduled—her spot as a promoted character is reserved for Version 6.X. Whether this is a strategic adjustment isn’t something I can confirm.

Q: Are you saying Columbina will appear in a small town in 6.0? Because leaks suggest Snezhnaya’s main storyline starts in Version 7.0.
A: That location is already closely tied to Snezhnaya. As for whether Snezhnaya’s main city will debut in Version 7.0, I can’t make that up. What I do know is that the Chapter VI Archon storyline is extremely long, involving the previous six nations, and Snezhnaya’s main city won’t open in 6.0.

#归来的悼亡者
summarised by Genshin Leaflow

During the 6.x version period, all previously established but unreleased maps will be completed.

#flyingflame

[Genshin][Questionable]
Snezhnaya will be released at 7.0
Nod-Krai will be released at 6.0 instead

#FullStopChan via HXG

Skirk 5.7 playable #FullStopChan via HXG

Skirk 5.7 playable
#FullStopChan via HXG

«This is what I know now, it may not be completely accurate

If I remember correctly, the one on the far right is the Fontaine Five Star»

#flyingflame