How do I optimize Kazuha's crowd control in Genshin Impact?

Optimizing Kazuha's crowd control in Genshin Impact involves understanding his unique mechanics, building him effectively, and utilizing his abilities in synergy with the right team composition. Kazuha is a 5-star Anemo sword user who excels at grouping enemies, applying elemental buffs, and dealing consistent damage through swirl reactions. His crowd control capabilities are primarily tied to his Elemental Skill and Elemental Burst, making him a versatile support and sub-DPS character.

First, let's break down Kazuha's mechanics. His Elemental Skill, Chihayaburu, has two variations: a tap version and a hold version. The tap version pulls enemies in a small area towards Kazuha and launches him into the air, while the hold version has a larger AoE and stronger pull. Both versions deal Anemo damage and can absorb other elements, triggering swirl reactions. His Elemental Burst, Kazuha Slash, creates a large AoE field that deals continuous Anemo damage and can also absorb elements, further enhancing crowd control and elemental reactions. Additionally, Kazuha's passive talent, Poetics of Fuubutsu, grants an elemental damage bonus to the entire team based on the element absorbed by his skill or burst.

To optimize Kazuha's crowd control, start by focusing on his Elemental Mastery (EM). EM increases the damage of swirl reactions, which are crucial for his role. Pair this with Energy Recharge to ensure his burst is available frequently. Artifacts should prioritize EM as the main stat on the sands, goblet, and circlet. The Viridescent Venerer 4-piece set is ideal for Kazuha, as it reduces enemy resistance to the swirled element and increases swirl damage. For weapons, the Freedom-Sworn sword is his best-in-slot option, providing EM and boosting team damage. Alternatives include the Iron Sting, which is craftable and offers EM, or the Favonius Sword for energy regeneration.

In terms of team composition, Kazuha works well with characters who can apply elements consistently, enabling him to trigger swirl reactions. For example, pairing him with Xiangling (Pyro), Xingqiu (Hydro), and Bennett (Pyro) creates a powerful vaporize team. Kazuha's crowd control groups enemies together, allowing Xiangling's Pyronado and Xingqiu's Rain Swords to hit multiple targets simultaneously. Bennett provides healing and an attack boost, further enhancing the team's damage output. Another effective team includes Kazuha, Raiden Shogun (Electro), Yae Miko (Electro), and Kokomi (Hydro), focusing on electro-charged reactions and sustained damage.

When using Kazuha in combat, prioritize his Elemental Skill to group enemies and trigger swirl reactions. Follow up with his Elemental Burst to maintain crowd control and apply elemental damage over time. Use his plunge attack after his skill to deal additional AoE damage. Timing is crucial; activate his burst after applying an element to maximize the elemental absorption and damage bonus from his passive talent.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting Elemental Mastery, which significantly reduces his effectiveness, and using his burst without first applying an element, missing out on the elemental absorption and damage bonus. Additionally, avoid using Kazuha in teams where his crowd control is unnecessary, such as against single-target bosses, as his strengths lie in AoE scenarios.

Advanced techniques involve mastering his skill and burst timing to maximize elemental absorption and swirl reactions. For example, in a freeze team with Ayaka and Mona, Kazuha can absorb Hydro or Cryo to boost the team's damage output. Another optimization is using his skill to dodge enemy attacks while repositioning, making him both a crowd control and utility character.

In summary, optimizing Kazuha's crowd control requires building him with high Elemental Mastery and Energy Recharge, using the Viridescent Venerer artifact set, and pairing him with characters who can consistently apply elements. Focus on his skill and burst timing, avoid common mistakes, and utilize advanced techniques to maximize his potential. With the right setup, Kazuha becomes an invaluable asset in both exploration and combat, excelling in crowd control and elemental reactions.