A recent leak, albeit marked as uncertain by reputable Genshin Impact leaker hxg_diluc, suggests Madame Ping, the beloved Streetward Rambler, will finally become a playable character in Version 5.4's Lantern Rite festival in 2025. This follows long-standing speculation and the reveal of her in-game model in the Version 3.4 Lantern Rite cinematic. Her arrival mirrors Cloud Retainer's, who was also showcased in a Lantern Rite cinematic before becoming playable a year later.
Unlike most Adepti, Madame Ping is a familiar figure in Liyue, known for her mentorship of Yao Yao and Xiangling, and her past role as Yanfei's caretaker. Players already interact with her in-game through the Serenitea Pot system. The leak designates her as a 5-star polearm user with a signature weapon boasting an impressive 88% Crit DMG bonus, potentially making her a strong alternative to Xiao for players lacking the Primordial Jade-Winged Spear. While her exact release window within Version 5.4 remains unclear, players eager to acquire her and her weapon should begin saving Primogems.
Madame Ping's Element: A Hydro Hypothesis
Madame Ping's mastery of martial arts and polearm usage are widely anticipated. However, her elemental affiliation remains a topic of discussion. Her attire, featuring fish scales and a predominantly blue color palette, strongly suggests she will be a Hydro user, potentially the first 5-star Hydro polearm character in the game.
This aligns with upcoming character releases. Version 4.8 is expected to introduce Emilie, a 5-star Dendro polearm user, and Version 5.0 will feature three Natlan characters: a Dendro Claymore, Hydro Catalyst, and Geo Polearm. The current roster hints at HoYoverse prioritizing Pyro reactions over pure Pyro characters for the Natlan era.
