Representation of Disabilities in Genshin Impact Characters

In the vast world of Teyvat, Genshin Impact has quietly become one of the most inclusive games in terms of character representation. While many players focus on collecting characters with the strongest abilities or most appealing designs, there's a deeper layer to appreciate - the thoughtful inclusion of Genshin Impact characters with disabilities that resonates with many players around the world.

As we move through 2025, HoYoverse continues to expand its roster with diverse characters that reflect real human experiences. This representation matters tremendously to the millions of players who may see aspects of themselves reflected in these digital companions.

Characters Living with Chronic Conditions

Perhaps the most notable example is Collei, the Dendro bow user from Sumeru. Collei lives with a chronic condition called Eleazar, a manifestation of The Withering on the human body. The condition presents as darkened scales on the skin with progressive symptoms including numbness, fatigue, and eventually potential immobility.

What makes Collei's portrayal particularly powerful is how realistically she handles her condition. She acknowledges her good and bad days, works within her limitations as a Forest Ranger trainee, and refuses to be defined solely by her illness. Christina Costello, Collei's English voice actor who is herself disabled, has spoken about how meaningful this representation is.

"Voicing Collei was so special because I really was able to relate to a lot of aspects of her personality," Costello shared in a recent interview. "I am someone who has been disabled my entire life, born with a rare lung disease... Collei's PTSD resonated with me because of my own medical trauma."

Invisible Disabilities and Trauma

Xiao, the Anemo polearm user, represents another facet of disability representation. He suffers from chronic pain inflicted by karmic debt, alongside significant emotional trauma. His struggles with pain that others cannot see mirrors the experience of many players with invisible disabilities.

For those with conditions like fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, or other chronic pain disorders, seeing a powerful character who continues to fight despite his suffering can be incredibly affirming. Xiao demonstrates that living with pain doesn't diminish one's value or capacity for heroism.

Visual Impairments and Adaptations

Beidou, the captain of the Crux Fleet, is another character worth noting. While not explicitly stated in all game materials, observant players have noted that Beidou appears to have vision in only one eye. Despite this, she's portrayed as one of the most formidable fighters in Liyue, having slain the mighty sea monster Haishan without a Vision.

More recently, Lynette from Fontaine joined the roster, with character design elements suggesting she may have visual adaptations as well. These subtle inclusions normalize different abilities without making them the character's defining trait.

Why Representation Matters

For players with disabilities, seeing characters like themselves in Genshin Impact can be a profoundly validating experience. Gaming has always offered an escape - a chance to experience worlds and abilities beyond physical limitations - but representation adds another dimension of belonging.

"We exist in the real world, we should exist in fantasy worlds as well!" as Costello aptly puts it. When games like Genshin Impact include characters with disabilities who are strong, complex, and heroic, it challenges harmful stereotypes and reminds players that disability doesn't equate to weakness.

The Impact on Players

For many players with chronic illnesses or disabilities, controlling characters like Collei or Xiao provides a unique form of empowerment. On days when physical limitations feel overwhelming, stepping into the shoes of these characters allows players to experience strength and capability in a meaningful way.

One player shared: "Whenever I feel like the world is a little too much, or I find myself overwhelmed by how difficult everything seems, stepping into Xiao or Collei's shoes for a few hours and taking on the world reminds me that, despite everything, I can still be powerful and make a difference."

Room for Growth

While Genshin Impact has made significant strides in representation, there's still room for growth. The game could expand its roster to include characters with more visible disabilities, such as mobility aids or prosthetics. As the world of Teyvat continues to grow with new regions and characters, the potential for even more inclusive representation grows with it.

The gaming industry as a whole has become more accessible in recent years, particularly since the pandemic normalized remote work and created more opportunities for disabled creators. This shift has allowed more diverse voices to contribute to game development and voice acting, enriching the stories we experience.

As we continue through 2025, players can hope that HoYoverse will build upon this foundation, creating even more characters that reflect the full spectrum of human experience - including disabilities. In doing so, they'll continue to create not just a game, but a world where everyone can see themselves as heroes.