Genshin Impact Update: Lantern Rite Character Revealed

Recent leaks suggest that the beloved Madame Ping, the Streetward Rambler, will finally become a playable character in Genshin Impact's Version 5.4 Lantern Rite event in 2025. While her appearance as a playable character was hinted at in the Version 3.4 Lantern Rite cinematic, alongside Cloud Retainer (who became playable in Version 4.4), the timing of her release has been uncertain until now.

A highly reputable Genshin Impact leaker, hxg_diluc, albeit with a caveat of uncertainty, points to Madame Ping's debut as a 5-star polearm user in Version 5.4. Her signature weapon is rumored to boast an impressive 88% Crit DMG bonus, making it an attractive alternative to the Primordial Jade-Winged Spear, especially for Xiao users. Whether she'll be featured in the first or second half of Version 5.4 remains unknown, but players eager to add her to their team should begin saving Primogems.

Madame Ping's Element: A Hydro Hypothesis

Madame Ping's polearm mastery, given her role as mentor to Yao Yao and Xiangling, is widely anticipated. However, her elemental affiliation is still a topic of much discussion. Her attire, featuring fish scales and a predominantly blue color palette, strongly suggests she will be a Hydro character – potentially the first 5-star Hydro polearm user in the game.

This speculation is further fueled by upcoming character releases. Version 4.8 is expected to introduce Emilie, a 5-star Dendro polearm character, and Version 5.0 will feature three Natlan characters: a Dendro Claymore, Hydro Catalyst, and Geo Polearm user. This suggests a potential shift in HoYoverse's focus towards Pyro reactions rather than solely Pyro characters during the Natlan era.