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

Elemental reactions are a core mechanic in Genshin Impact, and mastering them is essential for success in story challenges and other combat scenarios. These reactions occur when two or more elements interact, creating effects that can deal massive damage, debuff enemies, or provide utility. Understanding how to trigger and optimize these reactions will significantly improve your performance in the game.

First, letÔÇÖs break down the mechanics of elemental reactions. There are seven elements in Genshin Impact: Pyro, Hydro, Electro, Cryo, Dendro, Anemo, and Geo. When two elements come into contact, they trigger a reaction. For example, Pyro and Hydro create Vaporize, which amplifies damage. Electro and Cryo create Superconduct, which reduces physical resistance. Dendro and Electro create Quicken, which can lead to additional reactions like Aggravate or Spread. Each reaction has unique effects, and some are more suited for specific situations than others.

To effectively use elemental reactions in story challenges, follow these steps. First, analyze the enemies youÔÇÖll face. Some enemies have elemental shields or resistances, so youÔÇÖll need to bring characters with elements that can counter them. For example, Hydro shields are best broken with Cryo or Electro, while Pyro shields are weak against Hydro. Next, build a team with characters whose elements complement each other. A common strategy is to have one character apply an element (the enabler) and another character trigger the reaction (the trigger). For example, XingqiuÔÇÖs Hydro application pairs well with Hu TaoÔÇÖs Pyro attacks to trigger Vaporize.

Timing is crucial in triggering reactions. Use your enablerÔÇÖs abilities to apply an element to enemies, then quickly switch to your trigger character to activate the reaction. For example, use FischlÔÇÖs Oz to apply Electro, then switch to Ganyu to trigger Superconduct with her Cryo attacks. This sequence maximizes damage and ensures youÔÇÖre not wasting energy or cooldowns.

Here are some important tips and considerations. Always pay attention to elemental gauges, which determine how long an element stays on an enemy. Stronger applications last longer, allowing for more reaction opportunities. Additionally, some reactions have internal cooldowns, meaning you canÔÇÖt trigger them repeatedly in quick succession. Understanding these mechanics will help you plan your attacks more effectively.

Common mistakes to avoid include overloading your team with too many elements, which can make it difficult to control reactions. For example, having Pyro, Hydro, Electro, and Cryo characters in one team might seem versatile, but it can lead to inconsistent reactions. Instead, focus on two or three elements that synergize well. Another mistake is neglecting energy management. Ensure your characters have enough energy recharge to use their bursts frequently, as these abilities often play a key role in triggering reactions.

For advanced techniques, consider using Anemo characters like Sucrose or Kazuha to swirl elements. Swirl spreads the applied element to nearby enemies, making it easier to trigger reactions on multiple targets. Additionally, Geo characters like Zhongli can provide shields and resistance shred, indirectly boosting your reaction damage.

Team composition is critical for maximizing elemental reactions. A popular team for Vaporize reactions includes Hu Tao, Xingqiu, Sucrose, and Zhongli. Hu Tao and Xingqiu trigger Vaporize, Sucrose provides crowd control and elemental mastery buffs, and Zhongli offers shielding and resistance reduction. For Electro-Charged reactions, consider a team with Raiden Shogun, Yelan, Kazuha, and Bennett. Raiden and Yelan trigger Electro-Charged, Kazuha swirls and buffs, and Bennett provides healing and attack boosts.

Artifacts and weapons also play a significant role in optimizing reactions. For characters triggering reactions, prioritize elemental mastery and energy recharge. The Viridescent Venerer set is excellent for Anemo characters, as it reduces enemy resistance to the swirled element. For Pyro or Hydro characters, the Crimson Witch of Flames or Heart of Depth sets are ideal. Weapons like the Widsith or Sacrificial Sword can enhance elemental mastery and energy recharge, ensuring your characters are ready to trigger reactions consistently.

In specific scenarios, such as fighting a Cryo Abyss Mage, use Pyro characters like Bennett or Xiangling to break the shield quickly. For Hydro enemies, Electro characters like Fischl or Raiden Shogun are effective. Adapt your team and strategy based on the challenges you face.

By understanding elemental reactions, building a synergistic team, and optimizing artifacts and weapons, you can dominate story challenges and other combat scenarios in Genshin Impact. Practice these strategies, and youÔÇÖll see a significant improvement in your performance.