Genshin Impact continues to expand its roster in 2025, making collecting characters both exciting and sometimes a bit overwhelming for new and returning players. So, when searching for 'Genshin Impact how to get characters in genshin', what are the real, up-to-date ways to build your dream team without breaking the bank or missing limited opportunities? Let’s break down all the current methods, from free options to the famous Gacha system.
Ways to Unlock Characters: Free vs. Gacha
The game offers two main avenues to get new characters: by playing and completing in-game tasks (free characters), or through the gacha 'Wish' system. Each method has its own pros and cons, and understanding both helps you maximize your chances to get the characters you want.
1. Obtain Free Characters Through Gameplay
Genshin Impact always provides a handful of free characters just for progressing in the main story or reaching certain Adventure Ranks. These characters are four-star (with the Traveler being your starting five-star protagonist), and include some classic faces like Amber, Kaeya, and Lisa. Here’s a handy table summarizing how you can get them:
| Character | Element | How to Unlock |
|---|---|---|
| Traveler | Multiple | Chosen at game start (Aether/Lumine) |
| Amber | Pyro | Complete 'Wind-Riding Knight' quest |
| Kaeya | Cryo | Complete 'Crash Course' quest |
| Lisa | Electro | Complete 'Sparks Amongst the Pages' quest |
| Xiangling | Pyro | Clear Floor 3, Chamber 3 of the Spiral Abyss |
| Collei | Dendro | Clear Floor 4, Chamber 3 of the Spiral Abyss |
| Noelle | Geo | Guaranteed from Beginner’s Wish (first pulls) |
| Lynette | Anemo | Claimable at Adventure Rank 25 |
| Barbara | Hydro | Complete 'Baptism of Song' event, often recurring |
Some limited events may also offer four-star characters for free, often tied to the theme of the event or region. During anniversaries or special updates, even five-star characters have been given away—so keep an eye on announcements!
2. Gacha Wishes: The Banner System
The most well-known way to unlock new characters is through the Wish system, which features several banners:
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Standard Banner: Always available, includes a pool of five-star and four-star characters.
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Character Event Banner: Rotates every three weeks, focusing on limited-time five-star characters and boosted four-star units.
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Weapon Banner: If you’re after signature weapons instead.
To make a Wish, you’ll need Primogems (in-game currency), which can be earned by:
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Completing daily commissions
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Opening chests
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Clearing quests and achievements
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Participating in events
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Purchasing with real money (optional)
It takes 160 Primogems for one pull (wish), and each Wish gives you a chance at characters or weapons. The odds for a five-star character are low (0.6%), but a pity system guarantees a five-star within 90 pulls on most banners. Four-star characters are guaranteed every 10 pulls.
Tip: Prioritize event banners if you’re targeting a specific limited-time character!
Acquaint Fates vs. Intertwined Fates
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Standard Banner uses Acquaint Fates (blue)
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Event Banners use Intertwined Fates (pink)
Both can be bought with Primogems or rare currencies like Starglitter.
3. Starglitter Exchange: Direct Purchase Option
Don’t feel like spinning the gacha forever for a specific four-star? The Starglitter Exchange in Paimon’s Bargains shop lets you buy select four-star characters directly, rotating monthly. Each costs 34 Starglitter, which you earn from duplicate four- or five-star pulls. But, you can only buy two specific characters each month, and the lineup changes—so keep checking back.
4. Re-rolling for Beginners
Many new players ask, 'Should I re-roll for better starting characters?' Re-rolling means creating a new account, progressing to Adventure Rank 5, and using your free beginner Wishes. If you’re chasing a specific five-star, it’s possible but time-intensive. Remember, if you play on PlayStation, re-rolling could risk saved data from other games.
5. Event Rewards and Anniversaries
Occasionally, big events—such as anniversaries—let you pick a five-star character for free! For example, during the fourth anniversary, players could choose from a selection of standard five-stars. These are rare opportunities but significant if you’re patient.
FAQs: All About Getting Characters
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How do you get more Wishes for free?
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Participate in events, climb Adventure Ranks, redeem codes, and complete main and side quests.
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Can you get five-star characters for free?
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Typically, only through hard work and luck via free Primogems and event rewards.
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Are there any characters only available through the Shop?
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Most four-stars occasionally rotate through Starglitter Exchange; all five-stars (except Traveler and some event characters) are gacha-only.
Final Thoughts: Is It All Luck?
While luck plays a big role in 'Genshin Impact how to get characters in genshin', the game offers multiple paths to build a solid team without heavy spending. By combining daily gameplay, event participation, and strategic use of resources, everyone can unlock a diverse and powerful roster. The anticipation of pulling a new character never gets old, does it?
Keep an eye on future updates—who knows, your favorite character might be just around the corner in the next patch or free event! Happy adventuring in Teyvat.