Genshin Impact Leak Hints at Revised Release Window for Madame Ping

A trusted insider in the Genshin Impact community has revealed that Madame Ping may not be making her debut in Version 5.3, despite the Lantern Rite event occurring during this update. Although Genshin Impact is known for bending its usual patterns, this year’s Lantern Rite in Natlan is shaping up to be quite unusual. Not only will it occur a full patch earlier than in previous years, but it seems the event’s featured 5-Star character might be postponed.

This situation mirrors the earlier delay of Baizhu, who was initially expected in Version 3.4 but was eventually introduced in Version 3.6. However, this potential delay of the Lantern Rite’s main character would be unprecedented. The Archon Quest will not be updated in Version 5.2, pushing the conclusion of Natlan's story to Version 5.3, which is expected to release on January 1, 2024.

According to insider hxg_diluc, Version 5.3 will feature the Lantern Rite event, but Madame Ping will not be part of it. It is likely that a new 4-Star character from Liyue will be introduced during the latter half of the patch. Another leak suggests that both Lantern Rite characters might be postponed to Version 5.4. Madame Ping is anticipated to be a 5-Star Hydro character wielding a Polearm, known for her Plunging Attacks. Little is known about the rumored 4-Star character, though speculation points to her being a Catalyst user.

Lantern Rite Expected in Genshin Impact Version 5.3

If the Lantern Rite becomes the flagship event for Version 5.3, this update could be one of the most substantial in Genshin Impact's history. Besides the Lantern Rite, which will occur in the latter half of the patch, Version 5.3 is expected to include a map expansion, the conclusion of the Archon Quests in Natlan, and the introduction of two 5-Star characters. These characters are speculated to be Mavuika and Citlali, leaving minimal space for Madame Ping on the Event Banners.

While leaks should be approached with caution, hxg_diluc’s reputation for accuracy is strong, and this information aligns with other sources. Players now have a clearer view of the upcoming character releases for the Natlan era, at least up to Mavuika. A delayed debut for Madame Ping could be beneficial for fans, providing them with extra time to gather Primogems before she appears on the Event Banners in a future update.