How do I build a DPS Barbara in Genshin Impact?

Building a DPS Barbara in Genshin Impact is an unconventional but fun approach to using a character typically known for her healing abilities. Barbara is a Hydro catalyst user, and while her kit is primarily designed for healing, with the right setup, she can deal significant damage. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to build a DPS Barbara.

First, letÔÇÖs understand the mechanics involved. BarbaraÔÇÖs normal attacks deal Hydro damage, which can trigger elemental reactions. Her Elemental Skill, Let the Show Begin, creates a Hydro ring around her that applies Hydro to nearby enemies and heals the active character. Her Elemental Burst, Shining Miracle, heals all party members based on her Max HP. To turn Barbara into a DPS, you need to focus on increasing her Hydro damage and maximizing her normal attack damage. This requires a shift from her usual healing-focused build to one that emphasizes attack, critical rate, and Hydro damage bonus.

Step-by-step instructions for building DPS Barbara start with leveling her up to at least level 80 or 90, as higher levels increase her base stats. Next, prioritize upgrading her normal attack talent, as this will be your primary source of damage. While her Elemental Skill and Burst are important for healing, they are secondary in a DPS build. Focus on her normal attack talent first, then consider leveling her Elemental Skill and Burst if you want some healing utility.

For artifacts, the best set for DPS Barbara is the Heart of Depth set, which increases Hydro damage and normal/charged attack damage after using an Elemental Skill. Aim for a 4-piece set to maximize her damage output. The main stats to prioritize are Hydro Damage Bonus on the goblet, Crit Rate or Crit Damage on the circlet, and Attack Percentage on the sands. Substats should focus on Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Attack Percentage, and Energy Recharge.

Weapon selection is crucial. The best weapon for DPS Barbara is the Lost Prayer to the Sacred Winds, which increases Crit Rate and provides an elemental damage bonus. If you donÔÇÖt have this 5-star weapon, consider using The Widsith, a 4-star catalyst that offers Crit Damage and a random buff that can significantly boost her damage. Another good option is the Solar Pearl, which increases Crit Rate and boosts normal attack damage after using an Elemental Skill.

Team composition is important for maximizing BarbaraÔÇÖs damage. Pair her with characters who can trigger powerful elemental reactions. For example, Fischl or Beidou can provide Electro application for Electro-Charged reactions, which deal continuous damage. Xiangling or Bennett can apply Pyro for Vaporize reactions, which amplify Hydro damage. An Anemo character like Sucrose or Kazuha can use the Viridescent Venerer set to reduce enemy Hydro resistance, further increasing BarbaraÔÇÖs damage.

Important tips and considerations include managing BarbaraÔÇÖs stamina, as her charged attacks consume a lot of stamina but deal significant damage. Use charged attacks strategically, especially when you have buffs active. Also, be mindful of her Elemental Skill cooldown, as it is essential for triggering the Heart of Depth set bonus. Timing your Elemental Skill use before unleashing a series of normal and charged attacks will maximize your damage output.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting her normal attack talent, as this is the core of her DPS build. Also, avoid building her with too much HP, as this will reduce her damage potential. While some HP is necessary for her healing, focus on attack and critical stats for a DPS build. Another mistake is not utilizing elemental reactions, which are key to maximizing her damage. Always pair her with characters who can trigger reactions effectively.

Advanced techniques include using BarbaraÔÇÖs charged attacks in combination with her Elemental Skill to deal massive Hydro damage. Additionally, timing her Elemental Burst for healing can keep your team alive during intense battles, allowing Barbara to continue dealing damage without interruption. Another optimization is using food buffs and potions to further increase her attack and Hydro damage.

In specific scenarios, such as the Spiral Abyss, DPS Barbara can shine in floors with enemies weak to Hydro or in teams built around elemental reactions. For example, in a team with Fischl and Xiangling, Barbara can trigger both Electro-Charged and Vaporize reactions, dealing consistent and high damage. In open-world exploration, her Hydro application can be useful for solving puzzles and dealing with enemies weak to Hydro.

In conclusion, building a DPS Barbara requires a shift from her traditional healing role to a damage-focused build. By prioritizing her normal attack talent, using the right artifacts and weapons, and pairing her with characters who can trigger powerful elemental reactions, you can turn Barbara into a formidable DPS character. With careful management of her skills and stamina, and by avoiding common mistakes, you can maximize her damage potential and enjoy a unique playstyle in Genshin Impact.