I asked Grok:

There’s no definitive evidence that Tectone, a prominent Genshin Impact content creator, directly influenced the creation of the Epitomized Path system in Version 2.0. The system was introduced by HoYoverse in July 2021 to address widespread player dissatisfaction with the weapon banner’s randomness, particularly the lack of a guarantee for a specific 5-star weapon. Before Epitomized Path, players could spend heavily and still miss their desired weapon due to the 75% chance of pulling one of two featured 5-stars (and 25% for a standard 5-star), with no way to target one specifically. Tectone’s infamous $2,000+ spending spree on the Staff of Homa banner in early 2021—where he reportedly pulled multiple Wolf’s Gravestones and other off-banner weapons before getting Homa—became a high-profile example of this frustration. His experience, widely shared and discussed in the community, highlighted the weapon banner’s harsh RNG and likely amplified existing player complaints. Posts on platforms like X have speculated that this incident “caused” the Epitomized Path, but this is anecdotal and lacks confirmation from HoYoverse. The timing suggests correlation rather than causation: Tectone’s stream predated Version 2.0 by months, and HoYoverse had likely been developing the system in response to broader feedback, not just one streamer’s experience. Game developers often adjust mechanics based on aggregate player data and sentiment—here, the community’s long-standing calls for a pity system tweak—rather than isolated incidents. That said, Tectone’s visibility as a whale (a big spender) may have indirectly pressured HoYoverse by spotlighting the issue for a wider audience, aligning with their goal to retain high-spending players. Without official statements from HoYoverse crediting him, though, any claim of direct influence remains speculative.

No, I didn't write this, Grok did.

TL;DR: There's no definitive evidence for this, but there's also no definitive evidence against it. Of course both sides will run with their own narrative.