What is the best way to use Itto's charged attacks in Genshin Impact?

Using Arataki Itto's charged attacks effectively in Genshin Impact requires a deep understanding of his mechanics, team synergies, and optimal playstyle. Itto is a Geo DPS character who relies heavily on his charged attacks, particularly his special "Arataki Kesagiri" slashes, to deal massive damage. Here's a detailed guide on how to maximize his potential.

First, let's break down the mechanics of Itto's charged attacks. Itto's normal attacks build up stacks of "Superlative Superstrength," which are displayed as a counter on the screen. These stacks are consumed when you use his charged attacks, transforming them into powerful "Arataki Kesagiri" slashes. Each Kesagiri slash consumes one stack, and you can chain up to five slashes in a row if you have enough stacks. The final slash in the chain deals even more damage. Additionally, Itto's Elemental Skill, "Masatsu Zetsugi: Akaushi Burst," summons Ushi, a bull that taunts enemies and deals Geo damage. When Ushi is hit or expires, it grants Itto additional Superlative Superstrength stacks, further fueling his charged attacks.

To use Itto's charged attacks effectively, follow these steps. Start by using his Elemental Skill to summon Ushi. This not only deals damage but also sets up the potential for gaining more stacks. Next, use Itto's Elemental Burst, "Royal Descent: Behold, Itto the Evil!" This burst enhances his normal and charged attacks, converting them into Geo damage and increasing his attack speed and damage based on his defense. After activating the burst, switch to normal attacks to build up Superlative Superstrength stacks. Once you have a few stacks, hold the attack button to unleash Arataki Kesagiri slashes. Continue this cycle of normal attacks to build stacks and charged attacks to spend them, ensuring you maximize your damage output.

There are several important tips and considerations to keep in mind. First, always prioritize using Itto's Elemental Burst before engaging in combat, as it significantly boosts his damage. Second, try to position Ushi strategically so that it gets hit by enemies, granting you additional stacks. Third, be mindful of your stamina, as charged attacks consume stamina. If you run out of stamina, you won't be able to perform charged attacks until it regenerates. Fourth, pair Itto with characters who can provide energy particles to keep his burst uptime high, such as Gorou or Albedo.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting to use Itto's Elemental Burst, which drastically reduces his damage potential. Another mistake is not managing stamina properly, leading to situations where you can't perform charged attacks. Additionally, failing to position Ushi effectively can result in missed opportunities to gain extra stacks.

For advanced techniques, consider using animation canceling to optimize your damage output. After each Arataki Kesagiri slash, you can dash or jump to cancel the animation and start the next attack faster. This technique requires practice but can significantly increase your DPS. Another advanced strategy is to use Itto's burst immediately after summoning Ushi, ensuring you have maximum uptime on your enhanced attacks.

Team composition is crucial for maximizing Itto's potential. Gorou is an excellent support for Itto, as his abilities boost Geo damage and defense. Albedo can provide additional Geo damage and energy particles, while Zhongli offers shields and resistance shred. A fourth slot can be filled by a healer like Bennett or a sub-DPS like Fischl.

Artifact and weapon recommendations are also important. The best artifact set for Itto is the Husk of Opulent Dreams, which increases defense and Geo damage. For weapons, the Redhorn Stonethresher is his best-in-slot, providing critical damage and defense scaling. Alternatives include the Serpent Spine or the Whiteblind.

In specific scenarios, such as the Spiral Abyss, Itto excels in single-target and AoE situations due to his high damage output and Geo infusion. Against enemies with Geo shields, Itto can break them quickly with his charged attacks. However, be cautious when facing enemies with high physical resistance, as Itto's damage is primarily Geo-based.

In summary, mastering Itto's charged attacks involves understanding his mechanics, managing stamina and stacks, and optimizing team composition and artifacts. By following these strategies and tips, you can unleash Itto's full potential and dominate the battlefield in Genshin Impact.