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, charged, and plunging attacks into Anemo damage and increasing his jump height. This allows Xiao to perform high-damage plunging attacks repeatedly. 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 plunging attack damage, which is his primary source of damage 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 BurstÔÇÖs HP drain mechanic. Alternatively, you can use a combination of two pieces of Viridescent Venerer and two pieces of GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale or ShimenawaÔÇÖs Reminiscence for a balanced boost to his Anemo damage and attack. 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.

When it comes to weapons, the best options for Xiao are 5-star polearms like the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear, which increases his Crit Rate and provides an attack bonus, or the Staff of Homa, which boosts his HP and provides a damage bonus based on his HP. For 4-star options, the Deathmatch is a great choice for its Crit Rate substat, and the Blackcliff Pole can be effective for its Crit Damage substat. The Prototype Starglitter is a budget-friendly option that helps with energy recharge, ensuring Xiao can use his Burst more frequently.

Team composition is crucial for maximizing XiaoÔÇÖs damage. Since XiaoÔÇÖs Burst drains his HP, having a healer like Jean or Bennett is essential. Jean also provides Anemo energy particles, helping Xiao recharge his Burst faster. Bennett not only heals but also provides an attack boost with his Burst. For shields, Zhongli is an excellent choice as his shield reduces resistance to all elements, including Anemo, and provides strong protection. For sub-DPS and support, characters like Albedo, Fischl, or Xingqiu can provide off-field damage and elemental reactions, though XiaoÔÇÖs Anemo damage doesnÔÇÖt rely heavily on reactions.

In combat, the key to maximizing XiaoÔÇÖs damage is to use his Elemental Skill to generate energy particles before activating his Burst. During his Burst, focus on performing plunging attacks, as they deal the most damage. Use his Elemental Skill between plunges to maintain energy and deal additional damage. Be mindful of his HP, as his Burst drains it over time, and ensure your healer is ready to restore his health when needed.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting XiaoÔÇÖs energy recharge, which can leave him unable to use his Burst frequently. Ensure you have enough energy recharge through sub-stats or team support. Another mistake is not using plunging attacks during his Burst, as they are his primary source of damage. Avoid using Xiao in teams that rely heavily on elemental reactions, as his Anemo damage doesnÔÇÖt benefit as much from reactions like Vaporize or Melt.

Advanced techniques include timing his Elemental Skill to dodge enemy attacks while dealing damage, and using his Burst in combination with other charactersÔÇÖ abilities to maximize damage output. For example, using ZhongliÔÇÖs shield before activating XiaoÔÇÖs Burst can reduce resistance and provide protection, allowing Xiao to deal more damage safely.

In summary, to maximize XiaoÔÇÖs damage output, focus on leveling his talents, equipping him with the right artifacts and weapons, and building a team that supports his playstyle. Use his Elemental Skill to generate energy, and prioritize plunging attacks during his Burst. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting energy recharge and not using plunging attacks. With the right setup and strategy, Xiao can become a devastating force in your team, capable of clearing even the toughest content in Genshin Impact.