How do I build a strong plunge attack team with Xiao in Genshin Impact?

Building a strong plunge attack team with Xiao in Genshin Impact requires a deep understanding of his mechanics, team synergies, and optimal gear. Xiao is a powerful Anemo DPS character who excels in dealing massive AoE (Area of Effect) damage through his plunge attacks during his Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil. To maximize his potential, you need to focus on his energy management, survivability, and team support.

First, letÔÇÖs break down XiaoÔÇÖs mechanics. XiaoÔÇÖs Elemental Burst transforms him into a demonic form, increasing his attack range and damage while converting his normal, charged, and plunge attacks into Anemo damage. During this state, XiaoÔÇÖs plunge attacks deal significant damage, especially when combined with his Elemental Skill, Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, which allows him to dash through enemies and generate energy particles. However, XiaoÔÇÖs Burst drains his HP over time, so maintaining his health and energy is crucial.

To build a strong plunge attack team, start by selecting characters that complement XiaoÔÇÖs playstyle. A typical Xiao team consists of a battery, a healer, and a support character. A battery is essential because Xiao has high energy requirements for his Burst. Characters like Sucrose or Jean are excellent choices. Sucrose can generate energy particles with her Elemental Skill and provide crowd control, while Jean can heal and generate energy. For healing, Bennett is a top pick due to his healing and attack buffs. Alternatively, you can use Zhongli for his shields and resistance shred, which helps Xiao survive and deal more damage.

For team composition, a common setup is Xiao, Sucrose, Bennett, and Zhongli. Sucrose acts as the battery, Bennett provides healing and attack buffs, and Zhongli offers shields and resistance reduction. This team ensures Xiao has enough energy, survivability, and damage amplification to unleash his full potential.

Next, focus on XiaoÔÇÖs artifacts and weapons. The best artifact set for Xiao is the Vermillion Hereafter, which increases his attack and provides a damage bonus after using his Elemental Burst. Alternatively, you can use a combination of Viridescent Venerer and GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale for Anemo damage and attack bonuses. For main stats, prioritize Attack Sands, Anemo Damage Goblet, and Crit Rate or Crit Damage Circlet. Sub-stats should focus on Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Attack Percentage, and Energy Recharge.

For weapons, the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear is XiaoÔÇÖs best-in-slot weapon, offering high attack and crit rate. Other strong options include the Staff of Homa for its crit damage and HP scaling, or the Deathmatch for its crit rate and attack bonuses. If you donÔÇÖt have these, the Blackcliff Pole or the Prototype Starglitter are good alternatives.

In combat, start by using XiaoÔÇÖs Elemental Skill to generate energy and position yourself. Then, activate his Elemental Burst and perform plunge attacks by jumping and holding the attack button. Use his Elemental Skill between plunges to maximize damage and energy generation. Be mindful of his HP, as his Burst drains it over time. Use your healer or shielder to keep him alive.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting energy management, not using a healer or shielder, and failing to optimize XiaoÔÇÖs artifacts and weapons. Without proper energy management, Xiao will struggle to maintain his Burst uptime. Without a healer or shielder, he may die quickly due to his HP drain. And without optimized gear, his damage output will be subpar.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling to increase plunge attack speed and using XiaoÔÇÖs Elemental Skill mid-air to reposition and deal extra damage. You can also time your plunges to hit multiple enemies or avoid enemy attacks.

In summary, building a strong plunge attack team with Xiao involves optimizing his energy management, survivability, and damage output. Use characters like Sucrose, Bennett, and Zhongli to support him, equip him with the right artifacts and weapons, and master his combat mechanics. By following these strategies, you can unleash XiaoÔÇÖs full potential and dominate in Genshin Impact.