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: his mechanics, artifact and weapon choices, team composition, and playstyle optimization. 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 to help you get the most out of him.

First, letÔÇÖs break down XiaoÔÇÖs mechanics. XiaoÔÇÖs Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil, transforms his normal attacks into Anemo damage and significantly increases his jump height and attack range. During this state, XiaoÔÇÖs damage scales off his attack stat, and he gains a damage bonus based on his current health. However, this comes at the cost of continuously draining his HP. This means that XiaoÔÇÖs damage output is heavily reliant on his attack stat, critical rate, and critical damage. Additionally, his Elemental Skill, Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, deals Anemo damage and generates energy particles, which are crucial for maintaining his Burst uptime.

To maximize XiaoÔÇÖs damage, you should prioritize artifacts that boost his attack, critical rate, and critical damage. The best artifact set for Xiao is the 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter, which increases his attack and provides a damage bonus when he loses HP, synergizing perfectly with his Burst. If you donÔÇÖt have this set, the 2-piece Viridescent Venerer and 2-piece GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale or ShimenawaÔÇÖs Reminiscence are good alternatives. For main stats, aim for an Anemo DMG Bonus goblet, a Crit Rate or Crit Damage circlet (depending on your weapon and substats), and an Attack% sands. Substats should focus on Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Attack%, and Energy Recharge.

Weapon choice is also critical for Xiao. His best-in-slot weapon is the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear, which provides a high base attack, Crit Rate, and an attack bonus that stacks with hits. Other excellent options include the Staff of Homa, which boosts Crit Damage and provides an HP-based attack bonus, and the Deathmatch, which offers Crit Rate and an attack bonus based on the number of enemies nearby. For free-to-play players, the Blackcliff Pole from the Starglitter Exchange or the Prototype Starglitter are solid choices.

Team composition is another important factor. Xiao benefits greatly from supports that can provide energy, healing, and damage buffs. A typical team for Xiao includes an Anemo battery like Sucrose or Jean to help generate energy particles and maintain his Burst uptime. A healer like Bennett or Zhongli is essential to counteract XiaoÔÇÖs HP drain and provide additional buffs or shields. Lastly, a sub-DPS like Albedo or Fischl can provide off-field damage and elemental reactions.

In combat, the key to maximizing XiaoÔÇÖs damage is to ensure his Burst is always active. Start by using his Elemental Skill to generate energy, then switch to your supports to set up buffs and shields. Once XiaoÔÇÖs Burst is ready, activate it and focus on plunging attacks, which deal massive AoE damage. Be mindful of his HP and switch to your healer when necessary. Avoid using XiaoÔÇÖs Burst when his HP is too low, as the continuous drain can be dangerous.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting XiaoÔÇÖs energy needs, which can lead to downtime in his Burst. Make sure to use his Elemental Skill frequently and pair him with an Anemo battery. Another mistake is not managing his HP properly, which can result in him being knocked out during his Burst. Always keep an eye on his health and use healing or shielding supports effectively.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling to maximize his damage output. After a plunging attack, you can quickly dash or jump to cancel the landing animation and perform another plunge attack faster. This can significantly increase his DPS during his Burst. Additionally, positioning is crucial; try to group enemies together using crowd control abilities from supports like Sucrose or Venti to maximize the AoE damage from XiaoÔÇÖs plunging attacks.

In summary, to maximize XiaoÔÇÖs damage output, focus on building his attack, critical rate, and critical damage through artifacts and weapons. Use a team that supports his energy needs and provides healing or shielding. In combat, prioritize maintaining his Burst uptime and use plunging attacks for maximum damage. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting energy management and HP control, and consider advanced techniques like animation canceling for optimal performance. With the right setup and strategy, Xiao can become one of the most powerful DPS characters in Genshin Impact.