How do I counter the Fatui Hydrogunner in Genshin Impact?

To counter the Fatui Hydrogunner in Genshin Impact, you need to understand their mechanics, weaknesses, and how to exploit them effectively. The Fatui Hydrogunner is a formidable enemy that uses Hydro-based attacks and has a Hydro shield that makes them highly resistant to damage until the shield is broken. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to counter them.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of the Fatui Hydrogunner. They are part of the Fatui faction and are equipped with a Hydro gun that allows them to shoot water bullets and create water barriers. Their Hydro shield is their most significant defense mechanism, making them nearly invulnerable until the shield is destroyed. The shield can only be broken by specific elements, primarily Cryo and Electro. Cryo is the most effective element for breaking the Hydro shield, as it triggers the Frozen reaction, immobilizing the Hydrogunner temporarily. Electro is also effective, as it triggers the Electro-Charged reaction, dealing continuous damage over time.

To counter the Fatui Hydrogunner, you should start by using a Cryo character to break their shield. Characters like Kaeya, Rosaria, or Ganyu are excellent choices for this task. KaeyaÔÇÖs Elemental Skill and Burst can apply Cryo quickly, while RosariaÔÇÖs abilities allow for consistent Cryo application. Ganyu, with her charged shots and AoE Cryo damage, can break the shield efficiently. Once the shield is down, the Hydrogunner becomes vulnerable to all types of damage, allowing you to focus on dealing as much damage as possible.

If you donÔÇÖt have a Cryo character, an Electro character like Fischl, Beidou, or Lisa can also be effective. FischlÔÇÖs Oz can continuously apply Electro, while BeidouÔÇÖs Elemental Burst can deal Electro damage to multiple enemies. LisaÔÇÖs charged attacks and Elemental Skill can also apply Electro effectively. However, keep in mind that Electro is slightly less efficient than Cryo for breaking the Hydro shield, so it may take a bit longer.

When engaging the Fatui Hydrogunner, itÔÇÖs crucial to dodge their attacks. They can shoot water bullets that deal significant damage and create water barriers that can trap you. Pay attention to their attack patterns and dodge accordingly. Using a character with a shield, like Zhongli or Diona, can also help mitigate damage and provide additional protection.

Team composition is essential when facing the Fatui Hydrogunner. A balanced team with a Cryo or Electro character for shield breaking, a DPS character for dealing damage, a support character for healing or shielding, and a sub-DPS for additional damage is ideal. For example, a team consisting of Kaeya (Cryo), Diluc (Pyro DPS), Bennett (Pyro support), and Fischl (Electro sub-DPS) can be very effective. Kaeya breaks the shield, Diluc deals massive damage, Bennett provides healing and attack buffs, and Fischl offers additional Electro damage.

Artifact and weapon choices also play a significant role in countering the Fatui Hydrogunner. For Cryo characters, the Blizzard Strayer artifact set is excellent, as it increases Cryo damage and critical rate. Weapons like the Sacrificial Sword or Favonius Sword can help with energy regeneration, allowing for more frequent use of Elemental Skills and Bursts. For Electro characters, the Thundering Fury artifact set is ideal, as it boosts Electro damage and reduces cooldowns. Weapons like the Stringless or Skyward Harp can enhance their damage output.

Common mistakes to avoid include ignoring the Hydro shield and focusing solely on dealing damage. Without breaking the shield, your attacks will be ineffective, and youÔÇÖll waste time and resources. Another mistake is not paying attention to the HydrogunnerÔÇÖs attacks, leading to unnecessary damage and potential character deaths. Always be mindful of their attack patterns and dodge accordingly.

Advanced techniques include using crowd control abilities to immobilize the Hydrogunner while you break their shield. Characters like Venti or Sucrose can group enemies together, making it easier to apply Cryo or Electro to multiple targets. Additionally, timing your Elemental Bursts to coincide with the shield breaking can maximize damage output and quickly eliminate the Hydrogunner.

In specific scenarios, such as in the Spiral Abyss, where you may face multiple Fatui Hydrogunners, having a well-rounded team with strong Cryo and Electro characters is crucial. Prioritize breaking their shields first, then focus on dealing damage. Using characters with AoE abilities can help manage multiple enemies simultaneously.

In conclusion, countering the Fatui Hydrogunner requires a strategic approach, focusing on breaking their Hydro shield with Cryo or Electro characters, dodging their attacks, and optimizing your team composition, artifacts, and weapons. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively counter the Fatui Hydrogunner and succeed in your battles.