Iansan: The New Bennett Replacement in Genshin Impact?

Bennett has long been hailed as one of the most essential and versatile characters in *Genshin Impact*. Since the game's inception, his utility in various team compositions has kept him at the forefront of player strategies. However, with the introduction of Iansan in *Genshin Impact* Version 5.5, launching on March 26, many players are wondering if she might be the new "Bennett replacement." Let's delve into how Iansan stacks up against Bennett and whether she truly can take his place.

How Does Iansan's Kit Compare to Bennett's in Genshin Impact?

Iansan, hailing from Natlan, primarily serves as a support character, offering damage buffs and healing similar to Bennett. Her Elemental Burst, "The Three Principles of Power," is crucial for buffing teammates. Unlike Bennett's stationary field, Iansan summons a Kinetic Energy Scale that follows the active character, enhancing their ATK based on her Nightsoul Points. The scale's ATK bonus scales with both her Nightsoul Points and ATK if she has less than 42 out of a maximum of 54 Points. When she reaches or exceeds 42 Points, the bonus increases and scales purely off her ATK, suggesting a build focused on ATK is optimal for her.

A unique aspect of Iansan's scale is that it requires the active character to move, recording the distance traveled and restoring Nightsoul Points based on that distance. This adds a dynamic element to her gameplay, distinct from Bennett's static field approach.

While both characters provide healing, Bennett's healing capacity, which can restore up to 70% HP, significantly outpaces Iansan's. Additionally, Bennett can heal himself, whereas Iansan cannot. In terms of elemental infusion, Bennett at C6 can infuse Pyro into the active character's Normal Attacks, a feature Iansan lacks.

For exploration, Iansan offers unique advantages. She can use Nightsoul Points to sprint without stamina and jump longer distances, which can be beneficial for players. However, Bennett's utility in Pyro teams remains superior due to Elemental Resonance, providing a +25% ATK buff and Pyro infusion.

Should You Choose Iansan or Bennett in Genshin Impact?

Iansan can be seen as a close relative to Bennett, given their similarities in appearance and functionality. However, rather than replacing him outright, she offers a compelling alternative, especially for secondary teams in challenges like Spiral Abyss that benefit from a Bennett-like support.

One of Iansan's main advantages is that she eliminates the need for players to remain within a fixed area for buffs, a common jest known as "Circle Impact" within the *Genshin Impact* community. Iansan's Kinetic Scale encourages movement, presenting a fresh gameplay style compared to Bennett's stationary approach.

If you're interested in trying out Iansan, you'll have the opportunity during Phase I of *Genshin Impact* Version 5.5, available from March 26.

*Genshin Impact is available to play now.*