Skirk story feels like it was created long ago but was delayed and then released without proper re-work.

disclaimer - I am not criticising meaning beyond the story, it was interesting and there were plenty of nice moments in it

but in terms of quality of presentation just compare this story to 5.x character quests - be it textures, pacing, gameplay and you'll instantly see how outdated it is from current standards. Skirk is carried by her lore and her song and of course looks and voiceover. In other regards hoyo clearly cut corners and could've made more effort for such long awaited character

my theory is that it was created back in 2023 to release her after Furina, then they decided to keep her as bait for much later versions (like Dainsleif). But seeing negativity to Natlan release quickly made Escoffier and Skirk to keep people playing until Nod Krai.. I would say more, but certainly not in this sub, and as big Skirk's fan I am glad I only played it now and so my initial perception of character wasnt overshadowed by seeing that hoyo played it dirty for her.

and no, I wasnt speedrunning it last hour skipping scenes. I started in Sunday, but it was so slow and mid that I only finished now. It had plenty of good moments, but filler in between those certainly isnt up to 2025 standards. The only copium I can find is that she probably will play greater role in the future and will receive proper presentation in the game.