What to know

  • Zhao version required: 2.5 or later
  • Zhao cost: 100% free — no banner rolls needed
  • How to get: Log in and claim through the event once 2.5 is live
  • Bonus: Often includes level-up materials with the free character

With the Version 2.5 update (releasing December 30, 2025), every player can claim Zhao — an S-Rank Ice Defense agent — for free. This isn’t tied to banner pulls: you don’t need to spend Polychromes or roll on her banner to obtain her.

How to claim Zhao for free

Update your game to Version 2.5 or later

Zhao becomes obtainable once the patch is live.

Log into the game during the 2.5 Special Visitor event

A login/claim event (often called Special Visitor or similar) lets you receive Zhao as a free S-Rank character simply by logging in and completing the required prologue or event steps. You also get some upgrade materials to help level her up.

Follow in-game prompts

After updating, go to your in-game mail or events panel and claim Zhao (and possibly additional materials like enough XP to raise her to around level 40).

Image credit: HoYoVerse | Via: YouTube - iamrivenous

Zhao tips

  • You typically must play during the active 2.5 patch period to be eligible for free Zhao — so log in while the event is live!
  • Sometimes these free character events require reaching a certain Inter-Knot level (e.g., Level 8) or completing the Prologue / first Intermission story.

Event availability and timing

Zhao is only free during the active Version 2.5 period. If you do not log in and claim her before the version ends, she will move to standard acquisition methods later, typically through banners.

Logging in early is recommended to avoid missing the claim window.

Common issues and fixes

  • Can’t see the event: Make sure the game is updated and you’ve completed the Prologue
  • Didn’t receive Zhao: Check in-game mail and restart the client
  • New player: Rush the Prologue first; the event remains active throughout Version 2.5

Hope this answered your major questions. Drop your comments for feedback or support—we’re actively responding and always ready to help you further.