What is the best way to use Polearm characters for DPS in Genshin Impact?

Polearm characters in Genshin Impact are versatile and can excel as DPS (damage per second) units when built and used correctly. To maximize their potential, you need to understand their mechanics, optimize their builds, and pair them with the right team compositions. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to use Polearm characters effectively for DPS.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics involved. Polearm characters typically have fast attack speeds and high mobility, making them excellent for consistent damage output. Their normal attacks are quick and can chain into powerful combos, while their charged attacks often have unique properties, such as XiaoÔÇÖs plunging attacks or Hu TaoÔÇÖs charged attack that consumes stamina but deals massive damage. Elemental skills and bursts are also crucial, as they often provide significant damage boosts or utility. For example, Hu TaoÔÇÖs Elemental Skill increases her attack based on her max HP, while XianglingÔÇÖs Elemental Burst creates a spinning Pyro attack that deals continuous damage.

To maximize DPS, start by focusing on the characterÔÇÖs talent levels. Prioritize leveling up their normal attacks and Elemental Burst, as these are the primary sources of damage for most Polearm DPS characters. For characters like Hu Tao or Xiao, their Elemental Skill is also essential and should be leveled up alongside their other talents. Next, ensure you have the right artifacts. For most Polearm DPS characters, a 4-piece set of Crimson Witch of Flames (for Pyro characters like Hu Tao) or Vermillion Hereafter (for Xiao) is ideal. These sets boost their elemental damage and overall DPS. If you donÔÇÖt have full sets, a 2-piece combination of GladiatorÔÇÖs Finale and an elemental damage bonus set (like Crimson Witch or Viridescent Venerer) can work as a temporary solution.

Weapon choice is another critical factor. For 5-star weapons, Staff of Homa is the best-in-slot for most Polearm DPS characters due to its high base attack and HP scaling, which synergizes well with characters like Hu Tao. For 4-star options, Deathmatch (from the Battle Pass) or DragonÔÇÖs Bane (for Pyro characters) are excellent choices. If youÔÇÖre using Xiangling, The Catch (a free-to-play weapon from fishing) is a fantastic option as it boosts her Elemental Burst damage and energy recharge.

Team composition is vital for maximizing DPS. For Hu Tao, pairing her with Xingqiu is essential, as his Hydro application allows her to trigger Vaporize reactions consistently, significantly boosting her damage. Adding Zhongli for shielding and resistance shred or Albedo for additional off-field damage can further enhance her performance. For Xiao, a team with Jean or Sucrose for energy generation and Anemo resonance, along with Zhongli for shielding, is ideal. Xiangling works well in teams with Bennett for energy and attack buffs, and Xingqiu or Childe for Hydro application to trigger Vaporize.

In combat, timing and positioning are key. For Hu Tao, use her Elemental Skill to increase her attack and then chain normal and charged attacks to maximize damage. Be mindful of her stamina usage, as her charged attacks consume a lot of stamina. For Xiao, use his Elemental Burst to enter his enhanced state and spam plunging attacks for massive AoE damage. Make sure to manage his energy by using his Elemental Skill to generate particles. For Xiangling, focus on using her Elemental Burst as often as possible, as it deals continuous Pyro damage. Pair her with Bennett to ensure her Burst is always ready.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting energy recharge for characters like Xiangling or Xiao, who rely heavily on their Elemental Bursts. Ensure they have enough energy recharge or use teammates to generate energy particles. Another mistake is not optimizing artifact substats. Focus on crit rate, crit damage, and elemental mastery for reaction-based characters like Hu Tao and Xiangling. For Xiao, prioritize crit rate, crit damage, and attack percentage.

Advanced techniques include animation canceling, which can significantly increase DPS. For Hu Tao, cancel her charged attack animation by jumping or dashing immediately after the attack lands. This allows her to chain attacks more quickly. For Xiao, use his Elemental Skill mid-air during his plunging attacks to maximize damage and energy generation.

In summary, to use Polearm characters effectively for DPS, focus on talent levels, artifact sets, and weapon choices that complement their abilities. Build teams that enhance their strengths and trigger powerful elemental reactions. Pay attention to energy management and combat techniques like animation canceling to maximize damage output. With the right setup and strategy, Polearm characters like Hu Tao, Xiao, and Xiangling can dominate the battlefield and deal massive damage.