Players eagerly await powerful new character in popular online game

Players all over the world are hoping that a new character takes them to the next level in Genshin Impact.

“Genshin is a [free to play] ‘gacha’ game based from China. It’s an open-world RPG [role playing game] that involves different combinations of elemental powers and weapons,” said Manuel Flores, an experienced Genshin player. “The term ‘gacha’ is basically a loot box mechanic in games where you get items, characters, etc. through sheer luck.”

Although the game is nominally free to play, the gacha feature allows players to spend real-world money in order to buy helpful items in the game. The game itself involves the player’s character’s search for a missing twin on the fantasy world of Teyvat.  It is playable on multiple platforms.

“The lack of PVP [player vs. player] makes it so that you can play whoever you want and still beat the game,” said player Jenny Luong.

Playable characters are given star ratings. Four-star characters are fairly easy to get; five-star characters are stronger and more rare.  Most 5-stars are limited and get their own banners, which gives you a better chance to get that character.

There is also a pity system, where if you save up enough and miss out on enough character banners, you are guaranteed the next 5-star you want to pull. With this pity system, many players have saved enough in-game money to activate their guaranteed 5-star pull on the new character, Xiao.

“Xiao is a male character revealed in the second act of the storyline of the game. His weapon is a polearm and his element is win (Anemo is the in-game term),” Flores said.

“His popularity has been gaining since the game was released. I think it was a leak that featured him four-shooting a hypostasis [killing a boss in four shots],” said player Emma Wu.

Luong said that unlike other polearms, Xiao “uses his weapon to slash enemies.” She also said that “his skills center around the concept of mobility, and being able to move around fast.”

Xiao’s character design and physique have also intrigued many people. From his asymmetrical haircut and outfit to the little details like his tattoo sleeve and little jewels on his clothes, Xiao is very appealing to players.

“He’s hot,” said player Nathan Yang.

Genshin hasn’t lost any traction since it was first released three months ago. With 21 million pre-registered before the game came out and 17 million downloads on launch date, Genshin now has about 50-100 million players worldwide.

Flores said it was because of how the game caters to different demographics.

“There’s so many things Genshin has to offer. Compelling characters, fun combat, team composition, etc.,” he said.

“People have been looking for a game like this for a while,” said Yang. “It’s fun and it’s balanced out in all different ways a game needs.”

“I would also like to add that the scenery and music combined with the smooth graphics is very aesthetically pleasing to the player,” Maya said.

“Genshin Impact is a good game, 10/10 would recommend,” Flores said.