Looking ahead to Genshin Impact's Version 5.7, recent leaks have revealed that players may receive Sethos, a 4-star Electro archer from Sumeru, as a free character reward. While free character giveaways are always appreciated for expanding player rosters and improving Constellation levels, this particular selection has left some fans feeling underwhelmed compared to previous offerings.

Currently, Genshin Impact is progressing through Version 5.6, which has moved away from Natlan but introduced a significant Archon Quest update. This patch brought Ifa and Escoffier as new playable characters available through banner pulls. However, attention is already shifting toward Version 5.7, with beta tests underway and leaks emerging about what's to come.

Much of the community's focus has centered on the upcoming characters Skirk and Dahlia, both confirmed for Version 5.7. HoYoverse has officially revealed their respective elements, while leaks have provided insights into their gameplay kits, helping players understand how these characters will perform in combat and how they should be built.

According to reliable leaker KazusaLeaks, who has accurately predicted previous content like the Tatankasaur in Version 5.5 and bosses from Version 5.3, Version 5.7 will include a free 4-star character giveaway featuring Sethos. While specific details about the requirements or availability period remain unknown, past patterns suggest this giveaway will likely be tied to Version 5.7's flagship event, requiring players to complete certain challenges to claim the reward.

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Why Sethos Feels Like a Missed Opportunity

Despite the appeal of a free character, many players consider Sethos a disappointing choice. The selection could have better aligned with the current meta or featured a more recent 4-star character. Currently, Sethos isn't considered the optimal 4-star Electro archer for most team compositions. Ororon, for instance, offers superior Electro application and off-field damage potential, making him more versatile across various team builds – though he was already given away for free in Version 5.5.

A more strategic choice might have been a character that synergizes with the Cryo-Freeze meta, potentially complementing Skirk's rumored gameplay style. Candace would have been an excellent option, as she enhances Elemental Normal Attacks – precisely what Skirk is expected to utilize. Similarly, characters like Charlotte, Layla, or Xingqiu could have created meaningful connections with Skirk's kit.

Alternatively, HoYoverse could have offered a more recent 4-star character like Iansan, who was just released in Version 5.5, giving players additional opportunities to experiment with her team compositions beyond trial runs. Or they could have chosen an older character who has never been distributed for free, such as Kaveh. Despite being considered one of the weaker Dendro characters, having Kaveh available for free would open up new team-building possibilities for players.

The Silver Lining: Sethos's Capabilities

While there might have been better choices for the free character giveaway, Sethos still brings value as a solid 4-star Electro DPS option. The Sumeru character can deal significant damage through his unique Shadowpiercing Shots and offers excellent mobility to evade incoming attacks. Most notably, Sethos scales with Elemental Mastery, allowing him to capitalize on powerful Elemental Reactions in the game.

With high Elemental Mastery, Sethos performs particularly well in Aggravate and Hyperbloom team compositions when supported by appropriate sub-DPS and support units. Characters like Nahida can provide nearly constant Dendro application with her short-cooldown Skill, making her an ideal partner. For free-to-play players, Sethos also works effectively alongside the Dendro Traveler or Collei. Additionally, he can thrive in Overloaded teams with support from characters like Chevreuse, who can reduce enemies' Electro and Pyro RES.

People Also Ask

When will Genshin Impact Version 5.7 be released?

Based on HoYoverse's typical six-week update schedule, Version 5.7 is expected to launch in early March 2025, following the conclusion of Version 5.6.

Will Sethos be the only free reward in Version 5.7?

While Sethos appears to be the main character reward, Version 5.7 will likely include other free rewards such as Primogems, materials, and possibly a 4-star weapon, as is typical for major updates.

How does Sethos compare to other 4-star Electro characters?

Sethos offers decent Electro DPS capabilities with unique mobility, but characters like Ororon generally provide better off-field Electro application and support value in most team compositions.

Looking Forward

As with all leaks, the information about Sethos being offered for free in Version 5.7 should be approached with caution, as plans may change before the official release. The giveaway would make sense if the flagship event takes place in Sumeru, Sethos's home region.

As Genshin Impact continues through Version 5.6 and approaches the next update, more details about Version 5.7's events, banners, and rewards will emerge. The gaming community remains eager to learn more about Skirk and Dahlia, whose arrivals are generating significant excitement, especially given Skirk's long-awaited playable debut following her initial appearance as an NPC during the Fontaine storyline.

Whether Sethos proves to be the free character reward or not, Version 5.7 promises to deliver engaging content that will continue to expand the rich world of Teyvat and the ever-growing roster of playable characters in Genshin Impact.

For players disappointed by the potential Sethos giveaway, it's worth remembering that HoYoverse regularly provides opportunities to obtain characters through events and banner reruns. The game's evolving meta also means that characters previously considered suboptimal can become valuable assets as new content and team compositions emerge.

As we approach the midpoint of 2025, Genshin Impact continues to evolve with each update, bringing new regions, characters, and gameplay mechanics that keep the experience fresh for both veteran players and newcomers alike. The potential free Sethos giveaway, while perhaps not the most exciting option for some players, represents HoYoverse's ongoing commitment to providing accessible content for its diverse player base.