What is the best way to use Hydro characters for healing in Genshin Impact?

Hydro characters in Genshin Impact can be used effectively for healing, especially when paired with the right team compositions, artifacts, and weapons. The primary Hydro characters known for their healing capabilities are Barbara and Kokomi. Both characters have abilities that restore HP to the team, making them valuable in combat scenarios where sustainability is crucial. Below is a detailed guide on how to maximize their healing potential.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of Hydro healing. Barbara and Kokomi both have Elemental Skills that provide healing over time. BarbaraÔÇÖs Elemental Skill, "Let the Show Begin," creates a Melody Loop that heals the active character periodically and applies the Wet status to nearby enemies. KokomiÔÇÖs Elemental Skill, "KurageÔÇÖs Oath," summons a Bake-Kurage that heals the active character and deals Hydro damage to enemies. Both characters also have Elemental Bursts that provide significant healing. BarbaraÔÇÖs "Shining Miracle" instantly restores a large amount of HP to all party members, while KokomiÔÇÖs "NereidÔÇÖs Ascension" heals the team and increases her damage output based on her Max HP.

To use Hydro characters effectively for healing, follow these strategies. First, prioritize leveling up their Elemental Skill and Elemental Burst talents, as these directly impact their healing capabilities. For Barbara, focus on increasing her HP, as her healing scales with her Max HP. Kokomi also benefits from HP scaling, but her damage output during her Burst phase makes her a hybrid healer and DPS. Equip them with artifacts that boost their HP and Healing Bonus. The Maiden Beloved set is ideal for Barbara, as it increases healing effectiveness and provides additional healing when using Elemental Skills or Bursts. Kokomi can use the Ocean-Hued Clam set, which converts overhealing into damage, making her a more versatile support character.

When building a team around a Hydro healer, consider characters that can trigger elemental reactions to maximize damage output. For example, pairing Barbara or Kokomi with a Pyro character like Bennett or Xiangling can create Vaporize reactions, which deal significant damage. Alternatively, combining them with an Electro character like Fischl or Raiden Shogun can trigger Electro-Charged reactions, which deal continuous damage over time. Cryo characters like Ganyu or Ayaka can also synergize well, as Freeze reactions can immobilize enemies, making it easier to control the battlefield.

In combat, timing is crucial. Use BarbaraÔÇÖs or KokomiÔÇÖs Elemental Skill at the start of a battle to provide consistent healing over time. Save their Elemental Bursts for critical moments when the teamÔÇÖs HP is low. For Barbara, her Burst can be a lifesaver in emergencies, while KokomiÔÇÖs Burst can also deal damage, making her a more offensive healer. Avoid using BarbaraÔÇÖs Elemental Skill in situations where the Wet status could be detrimental, such as against Cryo enemies, as it can lead to Freeze reactions that immobilize your character.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting to upgrade talents and artifacts, which can significantly reduce healing effectiveness. Another mistake is over-relying on healing without considering elemental reactions or team synergy. While healing is important, dealing damage and controlling the battlefield are equally crucial. Additionally, avoid using BarbaraÔÇÖs Elemental Skill in environments where the Wet status can cause problems, such as in domains with Cryo enemies.

Advanced techniques include optimizing energy recharge to ensure that Elemental Bursts are available when needed. Equip Barbara or Kokomi with weapons like the Thrilling Tales of Dragon Slayers, which provides an HP boost and increases the attack of the next character switched in. This can be particularly useful in team rotations, where you can switch to a DPS character after using the Hydro healerÔÇÖs skill. For Kokomi, using the Prototype Amber can help with energy regeneration, allowing her to use her Burst more frequently.

In terms of team composition, a balanced team with a Hydro healer, a DPS character, a sub-DPS, and a support character is ideal. For example, a team with Barbara, Diluc, Fischl, and Sucrose can create powerful elemental reactions while maintaining high survivability. Alternatively, a team with Kokomi, Ayaka, Raiden Shogun, and Kazuha can deal massive damage while benefiting from KokomiÔÇÖs healing and Hydro application.

In summary, Hydro characters like Barbara and Kokomi are excellent healers when built and used correctly. Focus on increasing their HP and Healing Bonus, use their skills and bursts strategically, and pair them with characters that can trigger powerful elemental reactions. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting talent upgrades or using skills in unfavorable conditions. With the right team composition, artifacts, and weapons, Hydro healers can significantly enhance your teamÔÇÖs survivability and combat effectiveness in Genshin Impact.