What is the best way to use elemental reactions in the new puzzles in Genshin Impact?

Elemental reactions are a core mechanic in Genshin Impact, and they play a significant role not only in combat but also in solving puzzles scattered throughout the game world. The new puzzles introduced in updates often require players to use specific elemental reactions to unlock mechanisms, activate devices, or reveal hidden paths. To effectively use elemental reactions in these puzzles, you need to understand the mechanics, plan your approach, and optimize your team and equipment.

First, letÔÇÖs break down the mechanics of elemental reactions. When two different elements interact, they trigger a reaction that can have various effects. For example, applying Pyro to a Hydro-affected target causes Vaporize, which amplifies damage. Similarly, Electro and Cryo create Superconduct, reducing physical resistance. In puzzles, these reactions are often used to activate switches, light torches, or clear obstacles. For instance, some puzzles require you to light multiple torches using Pyro, while others may need you to freeze water with Cryo to create a path.

To solve these puzzles, start by observing the environment. Look for clues such as elemental symbols, glowing objects, or inactive mechanisms. These often indicate which elements are needed. For example, if you see a torch with a Pyro symbol, youÔÇÖll need a Pyro character to light it. If thereÔÇÖs a pool of water blocking your path, a Cryo character can freeze it to create a bridge. Always keep a diverse team of characters with different elemental abilities to handle various puzzle requirements.

One common strategy is to use characters with persistent elemental effects. For example, characters like Xiangling or Fischl can deploy abilities that continuously apply Pyro or Electro, respectively. This is useful for puzzles that require sustained elemental application, such as lighting multiple torches in sequence. Another tip is to use characters with wide-area elemental skills, like Sucrose or Venti, to cover larger areas quickly. This can save time when dealing with puzzles that require multiple interactions.

When building your team for puzzle-solving, consider characters with versatile elemental skills. A balanced team might include a Pyro character like Bennett for lighting torches, a Hydro character like Barbara for activating water-based mechanisms, a Cryo character like Kaeya for freezing water, and an Electro character like Fischl for triggering electrical devices. This setup ensures youÔÇÖre prepared for most puzzle scenarios.

Artifacts and weapons also play a role in optimizing your puzzle-solving efficiency. While combat-focused builds prioritize damage and crit stats, puzzle-solving builds benefit from energy recharge and elemental mastery. Energy recharge ensures your characters can use their elemental bursts more frequently, which is helpful for puzzles requiring multiple activations. Elemental mastery increases the strength of elemental reactions, which can be useful for puzzles that rely on reactions like Overload or Electro-Charged.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the wrong element or failing to observe the puzzleÔÇÖs requirements. For example, trying to light a Pyro torch with Electro wonÔÇÖt work, and attempting to freeze a mechanism that requires Hydro activation will be ineffective. Always double-check the puzzleÔÇÖs clues and ensure youÔÇÖre using the correct element. Another mistake is neglecting to bring a diverse team. If you only bring characters of one element, you may find yourself unable to progress when faced with a puzzle requiring a different element.

Advanced techniques involve combining multiple elemental reactions to solve complex puzzles. For example, some puzzles require you to trigger a chain reaction, such as using Electro to activate a mechanism that then requires Hydro to complete. In these cases, timing and positioning are crucial. Practice using your charactersÔÇÖ abilities in quick succession to create the desired reactions. Additionally, some puzzles may require environmental interactions, such as using Anemo to spread Pyro across multiple torches or using Geo constructs to block or redirect mechanisms.

Specific examples of puzzles include the Electro totems in Inazuma, which require you to activate multiple totems in a specific order using Electro. Another example is the Pyro torches in Liyue, which often need to be lit in a particular sequence. In these cases, having a character like Fischl or Xiangling who can apply their element consistently is invaluable.

In summary, mastering elemental reactions in puzzles involves understanding the mechanics, observing the environment, and building a versatile team. Use characters with persistent or wide-area elemental skills, optimize your artifacts and weapons for energy recharge and elemental mastery, and avoid common mistakes like using the wrong element. With practice and preparation, youÔÇÖll be able to tackle even the most complex puzzles in Genshin Impact.