Genshin Impact’s 5th Anniversary: Will HoYoverse Finally Deliver?

Genshin Impact’s anniversaries have always been a hot topic—whether for exciting surprises or disappointing letdowns. But with the gacha market becoming more competitive than ever and newer titles like Wuthering Waves raising the bar, the stakes for Genshin’s fifth anniversary are higher than ever. This milestone isn’t just about rewards—it’s about proving that HoYoverse still values its players.

So what can we expect this time around? Will it be the usual 1,600 Primogems and a login event, or is HoYoverse preparing something truly special?

A Look Back: From Disaster to Slight Progress

If you’ve been playing since launch, you probably remember the first anniversary—and not fondly. Players were hoping for a free five-star character or a massive Primogem windfall. Instead, they got 10 Intertwined Fates, a glider, and widespread disappointment. The backlash was so severe that HoYoverse issued emergency Primogem compensations just to calm the storm.

The second anniversary wasn’t much better: another 10 pulls, 1,600 Primogems, and some modest event rewards. At that point, it seemed like anniversaries were destined to be underwhelming.

However, things improved in the third and fourth anniversaries. We received over 20,000 Primogems across events, and for the first time, players could select a free standard five-star character. This was a welcome shift—but still not enough for many long-time players. With the fifth anniversary looming, expectations are higher than ever.

What Genshin’s Competition Is Doing—and Why It Matters

HoYoverse no longer dominates the gacha scene without competition. Games like Wuthering Waves and Honkai: Star Rail have introduced generous anniversary events that challenge Genshin’s conservative approach.

For instance, Wuthering Waves Version 1.2 offered a free limited five-star character, and Version 2.0 featured a mountain of free pulls to celebrate a major update. These moves have raised player expectations across the board—and if Genshin doesn’t adapt, it risks falling behind.

Loyalty can only go so far. Players want to feel appreciated, especially during a celebration that marks five years of consistent play, support, and spending.

What’s Likely for Genshin’s 5th Anniversary?

Let’s start by setting realistic expectations. Don’t expect HoYoverse to suddenly hand out a free limited five-star character like Raiden Shogun, Nahida, or Furina. That’s just not their style.

What we might see is a repeat of last year’s free standard five-star selection. This includes options like Diluc, Keqing, Mona, Jean, and Qiqi—characters that many players already have and may not be excited about.

To make the reward more meaningful, HoYoverse could add characters like Shenhe or Kokomi to the selection. Even including newer standard characters like Mizuki (if she joins the pool soon) would offer something fresh, even if it’s not limited-tier.

Expected Rewards (Based on Past Anniversaries):

• 1,600 Primogems from login bonuses
• 10 Intertwined Fates
• A free standard 5★ character selection
• A few Fragile Resin or other minor extras

This has been the formula for years, and unless HoYoverse breaks the pattern, we’re likely to see it again.

What They Should Do to Make It Special

If HoYoverse wants to make this anniversary a real celebration—and not just a routine—they should consider a few big changes:

1. Double the Primogems

Increasing the anniversary total from 1,600 to 3,200 (or more) would go a long way. It’s a small gesture, but one that shows appreciation for five years of support.

2. Include a More Valuable 5★

Offering a free support character like Shenhe or Sangonomiya Kokomi would make the anniversary selection feel rewarding rather than redundant.

3. Add Limited-Time Anniversary Events

More community challenges, web events, or mini-games with generous rewards would create excitement. Last year’s web events added a nice touch—this year, they could expand them significantly.

4. Introduce New Skins or Features

A new limited-time quest, regional teaser, or permanent gameplay system would make the anniversary feel like an event rather than a checklist. With a new region on the horizon, this could be the perfect opportunity.

5. Special Banner or Discounted Wishes

Imagine an anniversary-exclusive banner with reduced pity cost or discounted wishes. It would instantly energize the community and reward both new and returning players.

Genshin’s Future May Hinge on This Moment

Genshin Impact’s fifth anniversary isn’t just a milestone—it’s a test. A test of whether HoYoverse is truly listening. A test of whether they’re ready to compete in a more demanding gacha environment.

If they play it safe and repeat the past, many players will shrug it off—or worse, look elsewhere. But if they go big, offering better rewards, exclusive content, or meaningful upgrades, it could reignite the passion that made Genshin a global phenomenon in the first place.

Credit: Transcription and insights based on Gacha Nexus on YouTube
Watch the full video here: Gacha Nexus

To stay updated on confirmed anniversary news, banner leaks, and detailed build guides, visit ExploreGenshin.gg—your home for all things Genshin.

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