Yelan, one of Genshin Impact’s beloved characters, hasn’t been featured on a banner for over 720 days, which has left fans scratching their heads. Known for its diverse roster, Genshin Impact relies heavily on its characters, each of whom brings a distinct narrative and gameplay style to the table, enhancing the game’s appeal.
As Version 5.3 rolls out, players are introduced to three new characters: two five-stars, Mavuika and Citlali, and a four-star, Lan Yan. The first two shine in the inaugural banner cycle, while Lan Yan’s available through the Lantern Rite event. Interestingly, players can earn an extra Lan Yan by completing some special Update 5.3 quests.
The ever-growing roster creates a challenge for HoYoverse, as keeping all characters active in the storylines proves tricky. On Reddit, user bakedrefriedbeans highlighted that Yelan, the Liyue Hydro user, has been absent from banners for more than 720 days, despite her popularity and record-breaking double banner run with Hu Tao. Fans hoped to see Yelan during this year’s Lantern Rite, reflecting her ties to Liyue, but she was nowhere to be found.
Frustration brews among fans due to Yelan’s continued absence. Her character, known for being mysterious and often away on secret missions for Liyue’s Ministry of Civil Affairs, might explain her lack of screen time. Yet, players are suggesting more interaction opportunities with characters in the game world, even proposing simple dialogue for events like birthdays to enrich the sense of life in Teyvat, making the world feel more dynamic and always active.
Meanwhile, Kaedehara Kazuha holds the second-longest absence record among five-star characters since June 2023. However, rumors swirl that he might reappear as the storyline shifts back to the Electro region in Version 5.4. Also, fans speculate a new quest or banner for Yelan, who hasn’t been active since Update 4.8. For context, Furina and Sigewinne, featured in Version 4.7, are already lined up for Version 5.4’s Limited Character banner.
Those diving into Genshin Impact enter Teyvat, a vibrant realm full of elemental energy and intrigue. Separated from their sibling by an unknown god, players awaken in this new world, embarking on a quest driven by the desire to reunite and seek out The Seven—the elemental gods. Throughout this journey, they will form alliances, uncover mysteries, and explore every corner of Teyvat’s expansive landscape. Whether engaging in RPG, action, adventure, or gacha mechanics, this open-world game offers a continually evolving adventure that captivates its players.