The world of Teyvat is buzzing with anticipation once again. Recent leaks from reliable sources like Little Teyvat have sparked a major conversation among the Genshin Impact community. Could 2026 be the year HoYoverse finally addresses one of the game's most debated systems? According to these whispers, a groundbreaking update to the weapon acquisition system is on the horizon, potentially allowing players to purchase 5-star weapons directly from the in-game shop. This isn't just a minor tweak; it's a shift that could redefine how travelers build their characters.
🔥 The Leaked Details: A Direct Path to Power?
The core of the leak is both simple and revolutionary. It suggests that HoYoverse will allegedly add some of the 5-star weapons to the store. This wouldn't be through the usual Starglitter exchange, but rather through special gift packages. Imagine it: instead of facing the unforgiving odds of the Epitomized Path, you could simply head to a new section of the shop and secure that coveted weapon for your main DPS. The leak, shared widely on platforms like Reddit, doesn't specify a version number or release date, leaving the community to speculate about when—or even if—this change will go live.
💔 Addressing the Weapon Banner Dilemma
Let's be real, who hasn't felt the sting of the weapon banner? Currently, the system is notoriously punishing.
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Dual Rate-Up: Two 5-star weapons are featured simultaneously, diluting your chances.
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The 50/50 (Twice Over): First, you have a 50% chance to get a featured weapon versus a standard one. Then, if you win that, you only have a 50% chance it's the specific weapon you want.
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The Cost of Certainty: The Epitomized Path guarantees your chosen weapon... but only after two failures. At hard pity of 80 wishes per 5-star, that's a potential 240 wishes just for one weapon!
Isn't it exhausting to think about saving for months, only to walk away with the "wrong" 5-star? A direct purchase option in the shop could be the solution. Players can go ahead and get what they want directly, bypassing the layers of RNG. The big question remains: would this include limited signature weapons like Mistsplitter Reforged, or only standard pool weapons like Skyward Harp?
🌍 The Bigger Picture: Why Now?
This potential update doesn't exist in a vacuum. Two major factors could be influencing HoYoverse's thinking in 2026.
1. Evolving Gaming Regulations:
China's legislation regarding gaming and gacha mechanics continues to develop. Recent focuses have been on curbing excessive player spending and time investment. Measures like restricting daily login rewards have been discussed. Introducing a direct, transparent purchase option for powerful gear could be HoYoverse's proactive way of aligning with these regulatory trends. It offers players a clear price point, potentially reducing the compulsive spending associated with the "just one more pull" mentality of the gacha banner.
2. Catching Up with the Competition:
HoYoverse's other titan, Honkai: Star Rail, already has a system where 5-star Light Cones (their version of weapons) can be purchased from a shop using a special currency earned from pulls. While these are limited to the standard pool, it sets a precedent. It may, alternatively, be a way of bringing the game up to speed with other gacha titles. Could Genshin Impact be adopting a similar, perhaps more premium, model?
🤔 What Could This Mean for You?
Let's break down the potential pros and cons of such a system.
Potential Benefits:
✅ Reduced Financial Risk: No more spending 200+ wishes for a single weapon. A set price brings predictability.
✅ Accessibility: Players who budget for Welkin or Battle Pass could save up for a guaranteed power spike.
✅ Less Frustration: The emotional toll of losing the 75/25 (twice!) would be a thing of the past for shop weapons.
Potential Concerns & Unanswered Questions:
❓ Pricing: How much would a 5-star weapon pack cost? Would it be a fair value compared to the average gacha cost?
❓ Availability: Would these be one-time purchases, rotating stock, or always available?
❓ Impact on Game Economy: Could this devalue the achievement of getting a weapon from the banner? How would it affect the value of Primogems?
⏳ The Verdict: Cautious Optimism
As with all leaks, it's crucial to temper excitement with patience. The information comes from test versions, which are subject to change. HoYoverse might scrap, alter, or delay this feature entirely. However, the mere possibility has ignited a crucial discussion about player agency and spending in live-service games.
If implemented thoughtfully, a weapon shop could be a win-win. It provides a consumer-friendly option for dedicated players while helping HoYoverse navigate a changing regulatory landscape and modernize its monetization. For now, travelers should keep their Primogems safe and their eyes on the official channels. The next Special Program announcement might just hold the key to a whole new way of forging your arsenal in the world of Teyvat. What weapon would you buy first if this system becomes a reality? ✨