New characters Xianyun and Gaming announced for Genshin Impact

Drip marketing is here for Version 4.4 of Genshin Impact, introducing a playable version of Cloud Retainer and a brand-new character named Gaming.

Xianyun, aka Cloud Retainer

Xianyun appears to be Cloud Retainer in a human disguise. She has an Anemo Vision, though her weapon is still up in the air. Given her design and popularity, it’s hard to imagine that Cloud Retainer will not be a 5-star character. Her Constellation is listed as Grus Serena, which is Latin for “serene crane.”

It’s unknown why Cloud Retainer has decided to live among the humans, but she seems to be getting along well. The residents of Liyue Harbor only have good things to say about her, describing her as a talented artisan with a kind heart. There are those who know her true identity, such as her fellow adepti and Rex Lapis himself, but they appear to do a good job of helping to maintain her disguise.

Gaming

Yes, his name is Gaming. It’s actually based on the Cantonese pronunciation of a real name: 嘉明, pronounced “gah-ming.” It’s time to take bets on whether the English voiceover will say “gaming” or “gah-ming.”

Gaming has a Pyro Vision at his waist, but his weapon and rarity are unclear. His Constellation is Leo Expergiscens, Latin for “awakening lion.”

Gaming works as an armed guard for the Sword and Strongbox Secure Transport Agency, escorting valuable cargo as it’s transported from place to place. However, he moonlights as a Wushou dancer. Given the little lion mask that holds his Vision and references to suanni, Wushou Dance could be Teyvat’s version of a Lion Dance. This could indicate some interesting martial arts/Lion Dance themed animations, which I’m very excited to see!

When are Cloud Retainer and Gaming coming to Genshin Impact?

Since we’re about to go into Genshin Impact Version 4.3, Cloud Retainer and Gaming should be coming in Version 4.4. If the six-week update schedule holds, Version 4.4 should go live around January 30, just in time for Lunar New Year and Genshin’s annual Lantern Rite celebration. 

Given how past Lantern Rite rewards were structured, we can expect to be given a free Liyue 4-star character of our choice. If either Cloud Retainer or Gaming turn out to be 4-stars, they should be added to the selection pool, letting you pick up a new character for free!