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, especially 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 significantly boosts his damage output by converting his normal and charged attacks into Anemo damage and increasing 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, Whirlwind Thrust, as it directly affects his damage during his Burst. Talent levels should ideally be 9/9/9 or higher, with the Burst taking priority.

For artifacts, the best set for Xiao is the Vermillion Hereafter, which increases his attack and provides a damage bonus after using his Elemental Burst. 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 focus on are ATK% for the Sands, Anemo DMG Bonus for the Goblet, and CRIT Rate or CRIT DMG for the Circlet, depending on your weapon and substats. Aim for a CRIT Rate of at least 70% and a CRIT DMG of around 140-160% for optimal performance. Substats should prioritize CRIT Rate, CRIT DMG, ATK%, and Energy Recharge.

Weapon choice is crucial for Xiao. His best-in-slot weapon is the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear, which provides high base attack, CRIT Rate, and an attack bonus. Other great options include the Staff of Homa, which offers CRIT DMG and an HP-based attack boost, and the Deathmatch, which provides CRIT Rate and an attack bonus based on the number of enemies. For free-to-play players, the Blackcliff Pole from the Starglitter Exchange is a solid choice, offering CRIT DMG and an attack boost after defeating enemies. The Prototype Starglitter is another option, though itÔÇÖs less optimal due to its Energy Recharge substat.

Team composition is another critical factor. Xiao benefits greatly from supports who can provide energy, healing, and damage buffs. A typical team might include Jean or Sayu for healing and Anemo energy particles, Bennett for his attack boost and healing, and Zhongli for his shield and resistance shred. Alternatively, you can use Sucrose or Venti to generate energy particles and group enemies, Albedo for off-field damage, or Fischl for consistent Electro application. The key is to ensure Xiao has enough energy to use his Burst frequently and that heÔÇÖs protected from interruptions and damage.

In combat, XiaoÔÇÖs playstyle revolves around using his Elemental Burst to deal massive Anemo damage. Start by using his Elemental Skill to generate energy, then switch to supports to set up buffs and shields. Once his Burst is ready, activate it and use his plunging attacks to maximize damage. Plunging attacks during his Burst deal high AoE damage and are more efficient than normal or charged attacks. Be mindful of his HP, as his Burst drains his health over time, so having a reliable healer is essential.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting XiaoÔÇÖs energy needs, not using his plunging attacks during his Burst, and failing to manage his HP. Make sure to use his Elemental Skill frequently to generate energy and keep his Burst uptime high. Also, avoid using his Burst without proper support, as he can be vulnerable to interruptions and damage.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling to maximize his damage output. For example, you can cancel the end lag of his plunging attacks by quickly dashing or using his Elemental Skill. This allows you to chain more attacks in a shorter time frame. Additionally, positioning is key; try to group enemies together using supports like Sucrose or Venti to maximize the AoE damage of his plunging attacks.

In summary, to maximize XiaoÔÇÖs damage output, focus on leveling his talents, equipping the right artifacts and weapons, and building a team that supports his energy needs and survivability. Use his plunging attacks during his Burst, manage his HP carefully, and employ advanced techniques like animation canceling to optimize his performance. With the right setup, Xiao can become one of the most powerful DPS characters in Genshin Impact.