What is the best way to use Crystallize reactions in Genshin Impact?

Crystallize is one of the elemental reactions in Genshin Impact, triggered when a Geo element interacts with Pyro, Hydro, Electro, or Cryo. This reaction creates a crystal shard that, when picked up, generates a shield corresponding to the element used in the reaction. For example, a Pyro Crystallize shard will create a Pyro shield. While Crystallize is often overlooked compared to damage-focused reactions like Vaporize or Melt, it can be highly effective for survivability and team support, especially in challenging content like the Spiral Abyss or against high-damage enemies.

To understand the mechanics of Crystallize, itÔÇÖs important to note that the shieldÔÇÖs strength depends on the characterÔÇÖs Elemental Mastery and level. Higher Elemental Mastery increases the shieldÔÇÖs durability, while higher character levels improve its base absorption. The shield absorbs damage from the corresponding element more effectively, making it useful in specific scenarios. For instance, a Hydro Crystallize shield will absorb Hydro damage better than other elements. However, the shieldÔÇÖs overall durability is lower compared to dedicated shielders like Zhongli or Diona, so itÔÇÖs best used as supplementary protection rather than a primary defense.

To effectively use Crystallize, you need a Geo character in your team, such as Ningguang, Albedo, or Zhongli. These characters can consistently apply Geo to trigger the reaction. Pair them with characters who can apply Pyro, Hydro, Electro, or Cryo elements frequently. For example, XingqiuÔÇÖs Hydro application or FischlÔÇÖs Electro application works well with Geo characters to generate Crystallize shards. The key is to ensure that the Geo character is the one triggering the reaction, as this ensures the shieldÔÇÖs strength scales with their Elemental Mastery.

One strategy is to use a Geo character as a support or sub-DPS to generate shields while your main DPS focuses on dealing damage. For example, AlbedoÔÇÖs Elemental Skill, Abiogenesis: Solar Isotoma, creates a field that deals Geo damage periodically, making it easy to trigger Crystallize reactions. Pairing him with a character like Bennett, who applies Pyro with his Elemental Skill, allows for consistent Pyro Crystallize shards. This setup provides both damage and survivability, as the shields can absorb incoming damage while your main DPS continues attacking.

When building a team around Crystallize, consider characters who can apply elements quickly and consistently. For example, a team with Albedo, Xingqiu, Fischl, and Bennett can generate multiple Crystallize shards while maintaining strong elemental synergy. Albedo provides Geo application, Xingqiu and Fischl apply Hydro and Electro, and Bennett offers healing and Pyro application. This setup ensures frequent Crystallize reactions while also enabling other reactions like Electro-Charged and Vaporize.

Artifact and weapon choices are crucial for optimizing Crystallize. For Geo characters, focus on increasing Elemental Mastery to strengthen the shields. The Archaic Petra artifact set is ideal, as it boosts Geo damage and provides a team-wide elemental damage bonus when picking up Crystallize shards. Weapons like the Mappa Mare or Sacrificial Fragments can increase Elemental Mastery, further enhancing shield strength. For non-Geo characters, prioritize their usual builds, as their primary role is to apply elements for Crystallize.

One common mistake is neglecting Elemental Mastery on Geo characters. While Geo characters are often built for damage, investing in Elemental Mastery can significantly improve the utility of Crystallize shields. Another mistake is relying too heavily on Crystallize shields for defense. They are best used as supplementary protection, not as a replacement for healers or dedicated shielders. Additionally, avoid using Crystallize in teams where other reactions like Vaporize or Melt are more beneficial, as these reactions provide higher damage output.

Advanced techniques include using Crystallize to counter specific enemy elements. For example, in domains or fights where enemies deal heavy Hydro damage, generating Hydro Crystallize shields can significantly reduce incoming damage. Another technique is to use Crystallize shields to enable more aggressive playstyles, as the added protection allows your main DPS to focus on dealing damage without worrying about dodging every attack.

In summary, Crystallize is a versatile reaction that provides valuable survivability when used correctly. By pairing Geo characters with strong elemental applicators, building for Elemental Mastery, and using the right artifacts and weapons, you can maximize the effectiveness of Crystallize shields. While it may not be the most flashy reaction, it offers practical benefits that can make a significant difference in challenging content.