How do I build a strong Vaporize team with Xingqiu in Genshin Impact?

Building a strong Vaporize team with Xingqiu in Genshin Impact involves understanding the mechanics of the Vaporize reaction, optimizing Xingqiu's role as a Hydro enabler, and selecting teammates who can effectively trigger Vaporize. Vaporize is an elemental reaction that occurs when Hydro meets Pyro or vice versa, dealing increased damage based on the triggering element. When Pyro triggers Vaporize, the damage is multiplied by 1.5x, while Hydro triggering Vaporize results in a 2x multiplier. Xingqiu is one of the best Hydro applicators in the game, making him a cornerstone for Vaporize teams.

To start, Xingqiu's primary role in a Vaporize team is to consistently apply Hydro to enemies, enabling your Pyro DPS to trigger Vaporize. His Elemental Skill, Guhua Sword: Fatal Rainscreen, and Elemental Burst, Guhua Sword: Raincutter, are key to his Hydro application. His Burst summons Rain Swords that attack alongside your active character, applying Hydro with each hit. This makes him ideal for pairing with Pyro DPS characters like Hu Tao, Diluc, or Yoimiya, who can trigger Vaporize frequently.

For team composition, you need a strong Pyro DPS as the main damage dealer, Xingqiu as the Hydro enabler, and two additional characters to provide support or utility. A common setup includes a Pyro DPS like Hu Tao, Xingqiu, a shielder or healer like Zhongli or Bennett, and a flex slot for crowd control or additional damage. For example, Hu Tao, Xingqiu, Zhongli, and Sucrose form a strong team. Hu Tao deals massive Pyro damage, Xingqiu applies Hydro, Zhongli provides shields and resistance shred, and Sucrose boosts Elemental Mastery for stronger Vaporize reactions.

Artifact selection is crucial for maximizing Xingqiu's effectiveness. The best set for him is the 4-piece Emblem of Severed Fate, which increases his Energy Recharge and boosts his Burst damage. Main stats to prioritize are Hydro Damage Bonus on the Goblet, Energy Recharge or Attack on the Sands, and Critical Rate or Damage on the Circlet. Substats should focus on Energy Recharge, Critical Rate, Critical Damage, and Attack. For weapons, Sacrificial Sword is the best choice for Xingqiu due to its Energy Recharge substat and the chance to reset his Skill cooldown, ensuring consistent Hydro application. Alternatives include Favonius Sword or Skyward Blade.

For your Pyro DPS, artifacts should focus on increasing Pyro Damage, Critical Rate, and Critical Damage. The 4-piece Crimson Witch of Flames set is ideal for Pyro DPS characters, as it enhances Pyro damage and Vaporize reactions. Weapons like Staff of Homa for Hu Tao or Wolf's Gravestone for Diluc are excellent choices.

In combat, the strategy is to use Xingqiu's Burst first, then switch to your Pyro DPS to trigger Vaporize with every attack. For example, with Hu Tao, you would activate Xingqiu's Burst, then use Hu Tao's Skill to infuse her attacks with Pyro, triggering Vaporize with each hit. This maximizes damage output. Timing is important, as you want to ensure Xingqiu's Burst is active before your Pyro DPS starts attacking.

Common mistakes to avoid include not building enough Energy Recharge on Xingqiu, which can lead to inconsistent Burst uptime. Aim for at least 200% Energy Recharge to ensure his Burst is always ready. Another mistake is neglecting Elemental Mastery on your Pyro DPS, as it significantly boosts Vaporize damage. Use Sucrose or Albedo to provide Elemental Mastery buffs if needed.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling with your Pyro DPS to maximize damage output and using crowd control characters like Venti or Kazuha to group enemies, making it easier to apply Hydro and trigger Vaporize on multiple targets. Additionally, pairing Xingqiu with Bennett can provide healing and an Attack boost, further enhancing your team's performance.

In summary, building a strong Vaporize team with Xingqiu involves optimizing his Hydro application, pairing him with a strong Pyro DPS, and ensuring proper artifact and weapon choices. By focusing on Energy Recharge, Hydro application, and team synergy, you can create a powerful Vaporize team capable of tackling the game's toughest challenges.