Hey there, Travelers! One of the most magical times in Teyvat is almost here—yes, it’s the Lantern Rite Festival! If you’ve experienced it before, you know this event isn’t just any celebration. It’s a time when Liyue lights up (literally!) with stunning lanterns, fun mini-games, and a ton of rewards. And guess what? The 2025 Lantern Rite, part of the 5.3 update, is shaping up to be absolutely epic! Whether you’re a veteran of the festival or this is your first, this guide will help you make the most of it.
When Does the Lantern Rite Festival Start?
So, when’s the big day? While HoYoverse hasn’t dropped an official start date, it’s rumored to kick off on January 21, 2025, during the second phase of the 5.3 update. It’ll run until the update wraps up, so you’ll have plenty of time to dive in. As always, the festival takes us back to Liyue, where familiar faces (and maybe a few new ones!) join the festivities. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this.
Mini-Games Galore: What to Play This Year
Alright, let’s talk mini-games! The Lantern Rite is known for its fun activities, and this year’s lineup won’t disappoint. Here are the highlights:
- Immortal Combat
Love puzzles? This one’s for you! It’s a matching game, kind of like Puyo Puyo, where you match blocks to deal damage to your opponent’s Rattan Figure. Quick thinking is key here, so get ready to flex those puzzle-solving muscles! - Drills by Lamplight
Prefer action? This combat-focused mini-game is all about taking on waves of enemies. To rack up high scores, complete stage goals and trigger Secret Stratagems during battles. Pro tip: pick your characters wisely for this challenge. - Custom Gift Envelope
Time to get creative! This mini-game lets you design personalized decorations for your favorite characters. Even cooler? You can send your creations to friends in the game. Show off your artistic flair and spread some festive cheer!
Let’s Talk Rewards: What’s Up for Grabs
Let’s be honest—rewards are the real star of the show. And this year, HoYoverse is being super generous. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can earn:
- Free Xiangling Skin
Complete all event challenges to snag Xiangling’s “New Year’s Cheer” outfit. Miss out? You’ll have to purchase it later, so don’t wait! - Free Four-Star Character
Choose one free four-star character from Liyue. Options include: Xinqiu, Beidou, Chongyun, Ningguang, Xiangling, Yaoyao, Yanfei, Yun Jin, Xinyan, and Lan Yan, the game’s first Anemo shielder. - Other Goodies
Expect Primogems, Intertwined Fates, Mora, upgrade materials, a Crown of Insight, Fragile Resin, and more. Some rewards will be tied to daily logins, so don’t forget to check in each day!
Lantern-Lit Gathering: Free Four-Star Character Tips
Not sure who to pick for your free four-star? Here’s a tip: If you’re eyeing new gameplay strategies, consider Lan Yan. As the first Anemo shielder, she could bring a fresh dynamic to your team comps. Of course, if you’re building constellations for another favorite, this is the perfect time to grab an extra copy.
The Liyue Chronicled Wish Banner
Here’s a surprise that’s got everyone buzzing: a five-star Chronicled Wish banner! Running from January 21 to February 10, this banner features Baizhu, Shenhe, Keqing, Ganyu, Xiao, Tartaglia, and Qiqi. It’s also paired with a signature weapons banner, so if you’ve been waiting for reruns of Shenhe or Ganyu, now’s your chance.
Even More Festivities to Enjoy
But wait, there’s more! This year’s Lantern Rite includes:
- A unique questline exploring the rich culture of Liyue.
- Fireworks and collectibles like Fortune Coins and Xiao Lanterns.
- A special opera performance by Yun Jin.
- Exclusive event items, including a new Hu Tao skin available in the Genesis Crystal shop.
Looking Back: Lantern Rite’s Glorious Past
The Lantern Rite has been a yearly highlight in Genshin Impact. Here’s a quick trip down memory lane:
- 2021: All That Glitters (Version 1.3)
- 2022: Fleeting Colors in Flight (Version 2.4)
- 2023: The Exquisite Night Chimes (Version 3.4)
- 2024: Vibrant Harriers Aloft in Spring Breeze (Version 4.4)
Compared to previous years, the 2025 event promises bigger rewards and even more festive fun.
The Heart of Lantern Rite: A Cultural Celebration
The Lantern Rite isn’t just about in-game events—it’s a reflection of Chinese New Year traditions, celebrating family, new beginnings, and joy. It’s wonderful to see these cultural elements woven into Genshin Impact, making the game feel even more immersive and meaningful.
Get Involved: Share the Festive Spirit
Don’t forget to send Gift Envelopes to friends! It’s a great way to share the excitement and show off your creative skills. Plus, why not share your Lantern Rite experiences with the community? Post your best designs, mini-game scores, or even guides to help others navigate the event.
Final Thoughts
The Lantern Rite Festival 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best events in Genshin Impact’s history. With its stunning visuals, fun mini-games, and jaw-dropping rewards, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So mark your calendars, start saving those Primogems, and get ready to dive into the magic of Liyue’s Lantern Rite.
What are you most excited about this year? Share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below. Happy adventuring, Travelers!
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