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 with their Pyro attacks. 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 multiplier is 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 his Elemental Burst, Guhua Sword: Raincutter, are key to this. 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 powerful team. Hu Tao deals massive Pyro damage, Xingqiu applies Hydro, Zhongli provides shields and resistance shred, and Sucrose boosts Elemental Mastery and groups enemies.

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. For main stats, prioritize Energy Recharge on the Sands, Hydro DMG Bonus on the Goblet, and Crit Rate or Crit DMG on the Circlet. Substats should focus on Energy Recharge, Crit Rate, Crit DMG, and ATK%. If you lack Energy Recharge, consider using a weapon like Sacrificial Sword, which helps reset his Skill cooldown and generates more energy.

For weapons, Sacrificial Sword is the best choice for Xingqiu due to its Energy Recharge substat and passive effect, which allows him to use his Skill twice, generating more energy. Alternatives include Favonius Sword for additional energy generation or Skyward Blade for higher base ATK and Energy Recharge. Refining these weapons can further enhance their effects.

When building your Pyro DPS, focus on maximizing their damage output. For Hu Tao, for example, use the 4-piece Crimson Witch of Flames set, which boosts Pyro DMG and Vaporize damage. Main stats should include HP% on the Sands, Pyro DMG Bonus on the Goblet, and Crit Rate or Crit DMG on the Circlet. Substats should prioritize Crit Rate, Crit DMG, HP%, and Elemental Mastery. Weapons like Staff of Homa or Dragon's Bane are excellent choices for Hu Tao.

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, activate Xingqiu's Burst, then use Hu Tao's Skill to infuse her attacks with Pyro and deal massive Vaporize damage. Zhongli's shield ensures survivability, while Sucrose's crowd control and Elemental Mastery buffs enhance the team's overall damage.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting Energy Recharge on Xingqiu, which can lead to inconsistent Burst uptime, and not properly timing your Pyro DPS's attacks to maximize Vaporize triggers. Additionally, avoid using characters who apply elements inconsistently, as this can disrupt the Hydro application needed for Vaporize.

Advanced techniques include pre-stacking Elemental Mastery on your Pyro DPS before triggering Vaporize, using Sucrose's Swirl to spread Hydro and increase Elemental Mastery, and timing your rotations to ensure Xingqiu's Burst is always active during your Pyro DPS's damage window.

In summary, building a strong Vaporize team with Xingqiu requires careful attention to team composition, artifact and weapon choices, and combat strategies. By focusing on consistent Hydro application, maximizing Pyro damage, and optimizing support roles, you can create a highly effective team capable of tackling even the toughest challenges in Genshin Impact.