What is the best way to use the Hu Tao and Xingqiu combo in Genshin Impact?

The Hu Tao and Xingqiu combo is one of the most powerful and popular duos in Genshin Impact, primarily due to their ability to consistently trigger the Vaporize reaction, which amplifies damage significantly. Hu Tao, a Pyro DPS, and Xingqiu, a Hydro support, work together to create a synergy that maximizes Hu Tao's damage output while maintaining energy efficiency and survivability. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to use this combo effectively.

First, letÔÇÖs break down the mechanics. Hu TaoÔÇÖs primary source of damage comes from her Charged Attacks and Elemental Skill, which infuses her Normal Attacks with Pyro. XingqiuÔÇÖs Elemental Burst, Raincutter, summons Hydro swords that attack alongside your active character, applying Hydro to enemies with each strike. When Hu TaoÔÇÖs Pyro attacks hit an enemy affected by Hydro, the Vaporize reaction is triggered, dealing 1.5x damage if Pyro triggers the reaction. This interaction is the core of their synergy.

To execute this combo effectively, start by using XingqiuÔÇÖs Elemental Skill to generate Hydro particles and reduce his Burst cooldown. Follow this with his Elemental Burst to activate Raincutter. Once XingqiuÔÇÖs Burst is active, switch to Hu Tao and use her Elemental Skill, Guide to Afterlife, to infuse her attacks with Pyro. Then, perform Normal and Charged Attacks to trigger Vaporize repeatedly. XingqiuÔÇÖs Raincutter will continuously apply Hydro, ensuring that Hu TaoÔÇÖs Pyro attacks consistently trigger Vaporize.

One important tip is to manage Hu TaoÔÇÖs HP carefully. Her Elemental Skill consumes a portion of her HP to boost her attack, and her damage scales higher when her HP is below 50%. However, this also makes her more vulnerable. XingqiuÔÇÖs Raincutter provides damage reduction and minor healing, which helps sustain Hu Tao during combat. Additionally, using a shield support like Zhongli or Thoma can further enhance Hu TaoÔÇÖs survivability.

A common mistake is not timing XingqiuÔÇÖs Burst correctly. Since Raincutter lasts for 15 seconds, you should ensure that Hu TaoÔÇÖs Elemental Skill is active during this window to maximize Vaporize triggers. Another mistake is neglecting energy recharge for Xingqiu. Since his Burst is essential for the combo, aim for at least 200% Energy Recharge on Xingqiu to ensure his Burst is available as often as possible.

For advanced optimization, consider using animation canceling with Hu TaoÔÇÖs Charged Attacks. After performing a Charged Attack, quickly dash or jump to cancel the animation, allowing you to attack more frequently. This technique increases her DPS significantly. Additionally, pairing Hu Tao with a Cryo character like Kaeya or Rosaria can enable Melt reactions, further boosting her damage output.

In terms of team composition, a typical Hu Tao and Xingqiu team includes a shielder and a flex slot. Zhongli is the best shielder, providing strong shields and resistance shred. For the flex slot, consider characters like Albedo for additional off-field damage or Sucrose for crowd control and Elemental Mastery buffs. Another strong option is Kazuha, who can group enemies and boost Pyro damage.

For artifacts, Hu Tao benefits most from the Crimson Witch of Flames set, which increases Pyro damage and enhances Vaporize reactions. Focus on stats like HP%, Pyro DMG Bonus, and Crit Rate/DMG. Xingqiu should use the Emblem of Severed Fate set, which boosts his Energy Recharge and Burst damage. Prioritize Energy Recharge, Hydro DMG Bonus, and Crit Rate/DMG for him.

Weapon choices are also crucial. For Hu Tao, the Staff of Homa is her best-in-slot weapon, providing HP and Crit DMG. Alternatives include the DragonÔÇÖs Bane for Elemental Mastery or the Deathmatch for Crit Rate. XingqiuÔÇÖs best weapon is the Sacrificial Sword, which helps with energy regeneration and allows him to use his Elemental Skill twice. Other options include the Favonius Sword for energy generation or the Skyward Blade for additional damage.

In specific scenarios, such as the Spiral Abyss, this combo excels against single-target enemies or bosses. For example, against the Primo Geovishap, Hu TaoÔÇÖs high single-target damage combined with XingqiuÔÇÖs consistent Hydro application can quickly deplete the bossÔÇÖs health. In domains with multiple enemies, pairing Hu Tao with an Anemo character like Sucrose or Kazuha can group enemies together, allowing Hu Tao to hit multiple targets with her Charged Attacks.

In summary, the Hu Tao and Xingqiu combo is a powerhouse in Genshin Impact, leveraging the Vaporize reaction to deal massive damage. By managing their abilities, optimizing artifacts and weapons, and building a supportive team, you can maximize their potential and dominate in both overworld and endgame content.