Genshin Leaks Tease Lantern Rite Character Debut

A recent leak, albeit marked as uncertain by the reputable Genshin Impact leaker hxg_diluc, strongly suggests that Madame Ping, the beloved Streetward Rambler, will become a playable character in Version 5.4, during the 2025 Lantern Rite festival. While her eventual inclusion has been anticipated for some time, the timing remained unclear until now. Interestingly, her in-game model was showcased alongside Cloud Retainer's in the Version 3.4 Lantern Rite cinematic; Cloud Retainer subsequently became playable in Version 4.4.

Unlike many Adepti, Madame Ping is depicted as a kindly elderly woman leading a quiet life in Liyue Harbor. She's known as a mentor to both Yao Yao and Xiangling, and previously served as Yanfei's caregiver. In-game, she assists the Traveler in setting up their Serenitea Pot after completing the Liyue Archon Quests. This leak points to her arrival 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 a particularly appealing option for Xiao users lacking the Primordial Jade-Winged Spear. Whether her banner will appear in the first or second half of Version 5.4 is yet to be confirmed. Players eager to add her to their roster should begin saving Primogems.

Madame Ping's Elemental Affinity: A Hydro Hypothesis

Given Madame Ping's role as a martial arts instructor to Yao Yao and Xiangling, her polearm mastery isn't surprising. However, her elemental type remains a topic of ongoing 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.

The upcoming Genshin Impact updates offer some context. Version 4.8 is slated to introduce Emilie, a 5-star Dendro polearm character, and Version 5.0 will feature three Natlan characters: a Dendro Claymore user, a Hydro Catalyst user, and a Geo polearm user. While the full Natlan roster remains unconfirmed, these additions hint at a HoYoverse focus on Pyro reactions rather than a heavy emphasis on the Pyro element itself.