How do I maximize Xiao's damage output in Genshin Impact?

To maximize Xiao's damage output in Genshin Impact, you need to focus on several key aspects, including his talents, artifacts, weapons, team composition, and combat mechanics. Xiao is a powerful Anemo DPS character who excels in dealing high AoE (Area of Effect) damage during his Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to optimize his performance.

First, letÔÇÖs talk about XiaoÔÇÖs talents. Prioritize leveling up his Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil, as it is his primary source of damage. This ability transforms his normal attacks into Anemo damage and increases his jump height and attack range. Next, focus on his Elemental Skill, Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, which deals Anemo damage and generates energy particles. Finally, level up his normal attack talent, Whirlwind Thrust, as it enhances his plunge attack damage, which is crucial during his Burst.

For artifacts, the best set for Xiao is the Vermillion Hereafter, which increases his attack and provides a damage bonus when he loses HP. Alternatively, you can use a combination of two pieces of Viridescent Venerer and two pieces of GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale or ShimenawaÔÇÖs Reminiscence for a balanced boost to his Anemo damage and attack. The main stats to prioritize on your artifacts are Attack Percentage on the Sands, Anemo Damage Bonus on the Goblet, and Critical Rate or Critical Damage on the Circlet. Aim for substats that enhance Critical Rate, Critical Damage, Attack Percentage, and Energy Recharge.

When it comes to weapons, the best options for Xiao are 5-star polearms like the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear or the Staff of Homa. These weapons provide significant boosts to his Critical Rate, Critical Damage, and Attack. If you donÔÇÖt have access to 5-star weapons, consider using the 4-star Deathmatch or Blackcliff Pole, which also offer valuable Critical Rate and Critical Damage bonuses. The Prototype Starglitter is another viable option for its Energy Recharge substat, helping Xiao maintain his Burst uptime.

Team composition is crucial for maximizing XiaoÔÇÖs damage. Since XiaoÔÇÖs Burst drains his HP over time, having a healer like Jean or Bennett is essential. Jean also provides Anemo energy particles, which help recharge XiaoÔÇÖs Burst faster. Bennett not only heals but also boosts XiaoÔÇÖs attack with his Elemental Burst. For additional support, consider using characters like Zhongli for his shield, which reduces the need for healing and provides resistance shred, or Albedo for his off-field damage and Elemental Mastery boost. A second Anemo character like Sucrose or Venti can help generate more energy particles and reduce XiaoÔÇÖs energy recharge needs.

In combat, XiaoÔÇÖs primary damage comes from his plunge attacks during his Burst. To maximize this, use his Elemental Skill to generate energy and then activate his Burst. During the Burst, continuously perform plunge attacks by jumping and using his normal attack mid-air. This technique, known as plunge spamming, deals massive AoE damage. Be mindful of his HP, as his Burst drains it over time, and ensure your healer is ready to restore his health when needed.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting XiaoÔÇÖs energy recharge needs. While his Burst is powerful, it has a high energy cost, so ensure you have enough Energy Recharge or a battery character to keep it up consistently. Another mistake is not managing his HP properly. Always keep an eye on his health and use your healerÔÇÖs abilities strategically to prevent him from falling in battle.

Advanced techniques include optimizing your rotation to ensure maximum uptime on XiaoÔÇÖs Burst. Start by using your support charactersÔÇÖ abilities to set up buffs and debuffs, then switch to Xiao to use his Elemental Skill and Burst. During his Burst, focus on plunge attacks and use his Elemental Skill whenever itÔÇÖs off cooldown to generate more energy. Additionally, consider using food buffs and potions that increase attack or critical damage to further enhance his performance in challenging content.

In summary, maximizing XiaoÔÇÖs damage output involves focusing on his talents, equipping the right artifacts and weapons, building a supportive team, and mastering his combat mechanics. By following these strategies and avoiding common pitfalls, you can unleash XiaoÔÇÖs full potential and dominate the battlefield in Genshin Impact.