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 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 when he loses HP, synergizing well with his Burst. Alternatively, you can use a 2-piece Viridescent Venerer and 2-piece GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale or ShimenawaÔÇÖs Reminiscence for a balanced boost to Anemo damage and attack. 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 crucial for Xiao. The best 5-star 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 Skyward Spine, which increases Energy Recharge and attack speed. For 4-star weapons, the Deathmatch is an excellent choice due to its Crit Rate substat, while the Blackcliff Pole provides Crit Damage and an attack boost after defeating enemies. The Prototype Starglitter is a more accessible option, offering Energy Recharge to help with his Burst uptime.

Team composition is vital for maximizing XiaoÔÇÖs damage. Since XiaoÔÇÖs Burst drains his HP, a healer like Jean or Bennett is essential. 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 generation, characters like Sucrose or Venti can help recharge XiaoÔÇÖs Burst quickly. Sucrose is particularly useful as she can group enemies and provide Elemental Mastery boosts. A shield character like Zhongli can also be beneficial to protect Xiao during his Burst, as he is vulnerable to interruptions.

In combat, XiaoÔÇÖs rotation typically involves using his Elemental Skill to generate energy, then activating his Burst to deal massive Anemo damage. During his Burst, focus on plunging attacks, as they deal the most damage. Use his Elemental Skill between plunges to maximize damage output. Be mindful of his HP, as his Burst drains it over time, and ensure your healer is ready to restore his health.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting XiaoÔÇÖs energy needs, as his Burst requires a significant amount of energy. Ensure you have sufficient Energy Recharge or a battery character like Sucrose to keep his Burst uptime consistent. Another mistake is not managing his HP properly, as his Burst can leave him vulnerable. Always have a healer or shielder in your team to mitigate this risk.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling to maximize damage output. After a plunge attack, quickly dash or jump to cancel the landing animation and perform another plunge attack faster. This can significantly increase your DPS during his Burst. Additionally, positioning is key; try to group enemies together using characters like Sucrose or Venti to maximize the AoE damage from XiaoÔÇÖs plunges.

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 and health needs. Use his Burst effectively, manage his HP, 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.