Genshin Impact 5.1 Faces a Notable Setback for English Players

Genshin Impact 5.1 brings some disappointing news for players who enjoy the English-dubbed version: several characters are muted during key scenes in the latest Archon Quest. This issue comes as the game gears up for a flagship event slated for October, which may also impact the overall gameplay experience.

During the recent livestream for Genshin Impact Version 5.1, fans noted a significant difference in presentation styles across languages. While the Japanese, Korean, and Chinese broadcasts featured the game’s main character voice actors as hosts, the English livestream was unexpectedly led by two members from HoYoverse’s localization team.

Although HoYoverse has not provided an official reason for this change, many fans speculate it stems from ongoing strikes involving video game voice actors. This strike appears to have directly influenced Genshin Impact's 5.1 update, leaving some players feeling at a disadvantage in the main storyline.

According to Genshin Impact's official patch notes, the 5.1 update lacks certain English voice lines. "Due to recording arrangements, some content in Version 5.1 does not have English voice-overs. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused," HoYoverse stated. Players have observed that popular characters like Kachina, Kinich, and Ajaw are notably silent in critical scenes of the latest Archon Quest, despite their significant roles in the narrative.

While HoYoverse has yet to clarify the situation further, it likely ties back to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, during which voice actors are protesting the use of AI in video games. Despite the strike’s duration, previous updates for Genshin Impact appeared less impacted than the current one.

Missing Voice Lines in Genshin Impact Version 5.1

On Reddit, many players have expressed their solidarity with the voice actors advocating for better working conditions and resisting AI integration. However, some users have voiced their frustrations regarding the diminished immersion during gameplay. Rumors are circulating that the upcoming Sumeru flagship event in Genshin Impact Version 5.1 might also be missing a significant number of voice lines in the English-dubbed version.

This isn’t the first time HoYoverse games have felt the effects of the strike. For instance, recent marketing videos for Honkai: Star Rail featuring characters Feixiao and Lingsha were released only in Japanese, deviating from the usual English presentations. In those instances, HoYoverse also cited "recording arrangements" as a reason.

Despite these setbacks in Genshin Impact's latest update, players have been enjoying the introduction of Xilonen, a 5-star Geo unit that provides robust support for various team compositions. Fans can still pull for either Xilonen or Chiori before their banners conclude on November 13. Additionally, the community has begun sharing exciting leaks regarding Genshin Impact 5.2, including intriguing details about the kits of Chasca and Ororon.