Genshin Impact players could have the option to choose a free four-star character in the upcoming update, including the recently announced Yaoyao. She has been confirmed for the next update alongside another character named Alhaitham, who has made multiple appearances in the current Sumeru Archon Quest.
The next Genshin Impact update 3.4 will introduce the Lantern Rite Festival, an annual event celebrating the Chinese New Year. This is one of the most significant events in the game, which often gives players a chance to acquire various items and characters by finishing a couple of exciting quests.
According to a Twitter account named GenshinImpactUp, players will be allowed to choose one free Genshin Impact four-star character whose story is related to the Liyue major region, just like in the previous festival. Each nation in the game is based on a real-life location, and the fact that Liyue represents China is the main reason why the Lantern Rite Festival is always hosted in this region. The previous festival had players complete the "The Stars Inscribe the Year's Wishes" before offering a free four-star unit which included Yun Jin, a brand-new character at the time. This means that Yaoyao can be expected to participate in the same event; however, players who want to build up her constellation levels should probably wish on her banner.
Even though players expected Yaoyao to be the first Dendro character to join the playable roster, the fact that she is not from Sumeru probably prevented HoYoverse from introducing her in the previous updates. According to recent leaks, Yaoyao is expected to have a similar personality to the fan-favorite Pyro catalyst Klee. However, unlike Klee, who is considered a DPS unit, Yaoyao will apparently be a healer and off-field support.
Her whole play style will revolve around a rabbit-like device named Yuegui which can be placed on the field. Yuegui throws out White Jade Radishes all over the field that explode upon hitting enemies and deal Dendro damage. Activating her Elemental Burst will make these radishes heal nearby team members, which could make her a great Genshin Impact healer since up to three different Yuegui devices can be placed on the field.
Even though she was previously rumored to be a catalyst user, recent Genshin Impact gameplay video leaks confirmed that she will be using a polearm. There is still no official information about her exact release date other than that she's confirmed to appear on one of the two banners of the upcoming Genshin Impact update 3.4, which is expected to arrive around mid-January.
Genshin Impact is now available on mobile, PC, PS4, and PS5. A Switch version is in development with no confirmed release date.
