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 to help you 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 and charged attacks into Anemo damage and significantly boosts his jump height and attack damage. 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 basic 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, synergizing well with his playstyle. If you donÔÇÖt have this set, the 2-piece Viridescent Venerer and 2-piece GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale or ShimenawaÔÇÖs Reminiscence are good alternatives. The main stats to prioritize are Anemo Damage Bonus on the goblet, Crit Rate or Crit Damage on the circlet, and Attack Percentage on the sands. Sub-stats should focus on Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Attack Percentage, and Energy Recharge.

Weapon choice is critical for Xiao. The best weapon for him is the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear, which increases his Crit Rate and provides an attack bonus. Other strong options include the Staff of Homa, which boosts Crit Damage and HP, and the Deathmatch, which increases Crit Rate and attack based on the number of enemies. For free-to-play players, the Blackcliff Pole from the Starglitter Exchange is a solid choice, offering Crit Damage and an attack boost after defeating enemies.

Team composition is essential to maximize XiaoÔÇÖs damage. Since Xiao consumes HP during his Burst, a healer like Jean or Bennett is crucial. Jean also provides Anemo resonance, reducing stamina consumption and increasing movement speed. Bennett offers an attack boost and healing, making him a versatile support. For energy regeneration, pairing Xiao with another Anemo character like Sucrose or Venti is beneficial, as they can generate energy particles and group enemies. A shield character like Zhongli can protect Xiao during his Burst, ensuring he doesnÔÇÖt get interrupted.

In combat, XiaoÔÇÖs rotation is straightforward. Start by using his Elemental Skill to generate energy, then activate his Burst and spam his plunging attacks, which deal massive AoE damage. Make sure to manage his energy effectively, as his Burst has a high energy cost. Using his Skill twice before his Burst can help with energy generation.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting his energy needs, not using a healer or shielder, and not optimizing his artifact sub-stats. XiaoÔÇÖs Burst is energy-hungry, so ensure you have enough Energy Recharge or a battery character to keep it up consistently. Additionally, his HP drain can be dangerous without proper healing or shielding.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling to maximize his damage output. After a plunging attack, you can quickly dash or jump to reset his attack sequence, allowing for more plunges in a shorter time. This requires practice but can significantly increase his DPS.

In summary, to maximize XiaoÔÇÖs damage, focus on leveling his Burst and normal attack talents, equip him with the Vermillion Hereafter or a 2-piece Viridescent Venerer and 2-piece GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale, and use weapons like the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear or Blackcliff Pole. Build a team with a healer, energy battery, and shielder, and master his plunging attack rotation. Avoid common pitfalls like energy mismanagement and lack of healing, and consider advanced techniques like animation canceling for optimal performance. With these strategies, Xiao can become a devastating force in your Genshin Impact team.