How Long Do Banners Last in Genshin Impact?
In the world of Genshin Impact, banners have become a cornerstone of the game’s gacha system, offering players the chance to pull for their favorite characters and weapons. For both new and seasoned players, understanding how long these banners last is crucial for planning pulls and making the most out of their resources. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of banner durations, explore why they matter, and provide insights to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Banner Types in Genshin Impact
Before diving into the duration, it’s important to differentiate between the two main types of banners in Genshin Impact: permanent banners and limited-time banners.
Permanent Banners (Standard Banner):
The standard banner is always available and features a rotating pool of 4-star characters. This banner does not have a time limit, meaning players can pull on it at any time.
The standard banner is ideal for farming 4-star characters and weapons, especially for players who are not targeting specific limited-time characters.
Limited-Time Banners (Event Banners):
These banners are the focal point for many players, as they typically feature a 5-star character or a rate-up weapon. Limited-time banners usually last for 21 days, giving players a short window to pull for their desired character or weapon.
These banners often coincide with major updates, events, or festivals, adding an extra layer of excitement and urgency.
Why Banner Durations Matter
The 21-day duration of limited-time banners is a strategic design choice by miHoYo (now HoYoverse). This timeframe creates a sense of urgency, encouraging players to plan their pulls carefully. Here’s why understanding this duration is essential:
Resource Management: Knowing that a banner lasts 21 days allows players to budget their primogems (the in-game currency used for pulls) effectively. This is especially important for players with limited resources.
Strategic Pulling: The 21-day window gives players ample time to decide whether to pull for a character or weapon. It also allows for strategic decisions, such as waiting for pity (the guaranteed 5-star pull after 89 failed attempts) or pulling early to maximize chances.
Event Alignment: Limited-time banners often align with specific events or character storylines. For example, a character’s banner might coincide with their storyline or a major update, making the 21-day window a perfect opportunity to experience their content.
Case Studies: Popular Limited-Time Banners
To illustrate the importance of banner durations, let’s look at a few examples of popular limited-time banners:
Kamisato Ayaka’s Banner: Ayaka’s banner was one of the most anticipated in 2021. Her 21-day banner gave players just three weeks to pull for this powerful Cryo character, creating a sense of urgency among her fans.
Ganyu’s Banner: Ganyu’s banner was a prime example of how limited-time banners can drive player engagement. Her high damage output and popularity made her a must-pull for many, with the 21-day window encouraging players to spend their primogems strategically.
Hu Tao’s Banner: Hu Tao’s banner was notable for its alignment with her character story and the Lantern Rite festival. The 21-day duration allowed players to experience her story while trying to pull for her.
Maximizing Your Chances
While the 21-day duration is standard for most limited-time banners, there are a few tips to keep in mind to maximize your chances of getting the character or weapon you want:
Pity System: The pity system ensures that you’ll get a 5-star pull after 89 failed attempts. If you’re close to pity, it might be worth waiting until you reach it before pulling.
Save Primogems: If you’re eyeing a specific character, it’s a good idea to save your primogems in advance. This ensures that you have enough pulls to maximize your chances within the 21-day window.
Cross-Save and Multi-Device Play: If you play on multiple devices or platforms, make sure to use cross-save to consolidate your progress and resources.
Conclusion
In Genshin Impact, understanding how long banners last is key to making the most of your gameplay experience. Limited-time banners typically last for 21 days, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. By planning your pulls, managing your resources, and leveraging the pity system, you can increase your chances of getting the characters and weapons you want. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, knowing the banner durations is essential for navigating the world of Teyvat. So, the next time you see