What are the best artifact sets for sub-DPS Xingqiu in Genshin Impact?

Xingqiu is one of the most versatile and powerful sub-DPS characters in Genshin Impact, known for his ability to provide consistent Hydro application, damage reduction, and healing through his Elemental Skill and Burst. To maximize his potential as a sub-DPS, it is crucial to focus on the right artifact sets, stats, and team compositions. Here is a detailed guide on how to build Xingqiu effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of XingqiuÔÇÖs abilities. His Elemental Skill, Guhua Sword: Fatal Rainscreen, deals Hydro damage and creates Rain Swords that reduce incoming damage and provide minor healing. His Elemental Burst, Guhua Sword: Raincutter, summons Rain Swords that attack alongside your active character, dealing Hydro damage and applying Hydro to enemies. This makes Xingqiu an excellent enabler for elemental reactions like Vaporize, Electro-Charged, and Freeze. His passive talent, Hydropathic, also heals your active character when the Rain Swords are shattered or expire.

For artifact sets, the best options for sub-DPS Xingqiu are Emblem of Severed Fate and Noblesse Oblige. Emblem of Severed Fate is the top choice because it increases Energy Recharge and boosts Elemental Burst damage based on Energy Recharge. This set synergizes perfectly with XingqiuÔÇÖs high Energy Recharge needs and his reliance on his Burst for consistent damage. Noblesse Oblige is another strong option, as it increases Elemental Burst damage and provides a team-wide attack buff after using the Burst. This set is particularly useful in teams where Xingqiu is the primary Hydro applicator and you want to boost your main DPSÔÇÖs damage.

When choosing artifact main stats, prioritize Energy Recharge on the Sands, Hydro Damage Bonus on the Goblet, and Critical Rate or Critical Damage on the Circlet. XingqiuÔÇÖs Burst is his primary source of damage, so having enough Energy Recharge (around 180-200%) is essential to ensure it is available off cooldown. Hydro Damage Bonus and Critical stats further amplify his damage output. For substats, focus on Energy Recharge, Critical Rate, Critical Damage, and Attack Percentage. Avoid flat Attack and Defense stats, as they provide minimal benefits.

For weapons, the best options for Xingqiu are Sacrificial Sword, Favonius Sword, and the 5-star weapon Mistsplitter Reforged. Sacrificial Sword is the most popular choice because its passive ability resets the cooldown of XingqiuÔÇÖs Elemental Skill, allowing him to generate more Energy Particles and maintain consistent Burst uptime. Favonius Sword is a good alternative if you lack Sacrificial Sword, as it generates Energy Particles for the team. Mistsplitter Reforged is the best 5-star option, providing high base Attack and a significant boost to Elemental Burst damage.

In terms of team compositions, Xingqiu excels in teams that rely on elemental reactions. For Vaporize teams, pair him with Pyro DPS characters like Hu Tao, Diluc, or Yoimiya. His Hydro application enables consistent Vaporize reactions, significantly boosting your main DPSÔÇÖs damage. For Electro-Charged teams, combine Xingqiu with Electro characters like Raiden Shogun, Fischl, or Beidou. This setup creates continuous Electro-Charged reactions, dealing damage over time and controlling groups of enemies. In Freeze teams, Xingqiu works well with Cryo characters like Ayaka, Ganyu, or Rosaria, providing consistent Hydro application to freeze enemies in place.

One common mistake to avoid is neglecting Energy Recharge. XingqiuÔÇÖs Burst is his most important ability, and without sufficient Energy Recharge, you will struggle to maintain uptime. Always prioritize Energy Recharge in your artifact substats and weapon choice. Another mistake is using Xingqiu as a main DPS. While he can deal significant damage, his true strength lies in his ability to support and enable other characters through his Hydro application and damage reduction.

Advanced techniques for optimizing Xingqiu include timing his Elemental Skill to generate maximum Energy Particles and using his Rain Swords strategically to mitigate damage during critical moments. For example, activating his Skill just before a powerful enemy attack can save your team from taking heavy damage. Additionally, pairing Xingqiu with characters who can reduce cooldowns, like Chongyun or C2 Jean, can further enhance his performance by allowing more frequent use of his abilities.

In summary, building Xingqiu as a sub-DPS requires a focus on Energy Recharge, Hydro Damage, and Critical stats. Emblem of Severed Fate and Noblesse Oblige are the best artifact sets, while Sacrificial Sword is the ideal weapon. Pair him with characters who can take advantage of his Hydro application for powerful elemental reactions. By following these strategies, you can maximize XingqiuÔÇÖs potential and make him a valuable asset to your team.