How do I optimize Xiao's plunge attacks in Genshin Impact?
Optimizing Xiao's plunge attacks in Genshin Impact requires a deep understanding of his mechanics, team synergies, and proper resource allocation. Xiao is a powerful Anemo DPS character whose primary source of damage comes from his Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil, which transforms his normal attacks into Anemo-infused plunges. To maximize his potential, you need to focus on his energy management, artifact choices, weapon selection, and team composition.
First, let's break down the mechanics of Xiao's plunge attacks. When Xiao activates his Elemental Burst, he gains increased jump height, attack range, and damage, but his health gradually drains over time. During this state, his normal attacks are replaced with high-damage plunging attacks. These plunges deal AoE Anemo damage, making them highly effective against groups of enemies. The key to optimizing Xiao's plunge attacks lies in maintaining his Burst uptime, increasing his damage output, and ensuring he survives the health drain.
To achieve this, start by focusing on Xiao's energy recharge. His Burst costs 70 energy, which can be challenging to maintain without proper support. Pairing Xiao with an Anemo battery like Sucrose or Jean is crucial. These characters can generate Anemo particles for Xiao, helping him recharge his Burst faster. Sucrose, in particular, is excellent for this role because her Elemental Skill generates multiple particles and her Elemental Mastery buffs can indirectly boost Xiao's Swirl reactions.
Next, consider Xiao's artifact setup. The best artifact set for Xiao is the Vermillion Hereafter, which increases his attack and provides a damage bonus after using his Elemental Burst. If you don't have this set, the 2-piece Viridescent Venerer and 2-piece Gladiator's Finale or Shimenawa's Reminiscence are strong alternatives. Focus on substats like Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Attack Percentage, and Energy Recharge. Aim for a Crit Rate to Crit Damage ratio of at least 1:2, with a minimum of 70% Crit Rate for consistent damage.
For weapons, the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear is Xiao's best-in-slot option, offering high base attack, Crit Rate, and a damage-boosting passive. If you don't have this weapon, the Staff of Homa, Deathmatch, or Blackcliff Pole are excellent alternatives. The Favonius Lance can also be useful if you struggle with energy recharge.
In terms of team composition, Xiao works best with characters who can provide shields, healing, and energy support. Zhongli is an ideal teammate, as his shield reduces resistance and protects Xiao from interruptions. Bennett is another great choice, offering healing and an attack boost with his Burst. For the fourth slot, consider a sub-DPS like Albedo or Fischl, who can deal off-field damage without interfering with Xiao's plunges.
When using Xiao in combat, timing is crucial. Activate his Burst only when you have a clear window to deal damage, as enemies can interrupt his plunges. Use his Elemental Skill, Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, to generate energy and reposition yourself. During his Burst, aim to plunge at the peak of his jump to maximize damage. Avoid spamming plunges too quickly, as this can reduce your overall DPS. Instead, maintain a steady rhythm to ensure each plunge lands effectively.
Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting Xiao's energy needs, using his Burst in unfavorable situations, and failing to manage his health. Always monitor his energy and health levels, and be ready to swap to a healer or shielder if necessary. Additionally, avoid using Xiao against enemies with high Anemo resistance, as this will significantly reduce his damage output.
For advanced optimizations, consider incorporating Swirl reactions into your gameplay. While Xiao's primary damage comes from his plunges, triggering Swirl with elements like Pyro or Electro can add extra damage. Pairing Xiao with characters like Fischl or Xiangling can create opportunities for Swirl reactions, further boosting his overall damage.
In summary, optimizing Xiao's plunge attacks involves careful attention to his energy management, artifact and weapon choices, and team composition. By focusing on these aspects and avoiding common mistakes, you can unleash Xiao's full potential and dominate the battlefield with his powerful plunging attacks.
First, let's break down the mechanics of Xiao's plunge attacks. When Xiao activates his Elemental Burst, he gains increased jump height, attack range, and damage, but his health gradually drains over time. During this state, his normal attacks are replaced with high-damage plunging attacks. These plunges deal AoE Anemo damage, making them highly effective against groups of enemies. The key to optimizing Xiao's plunge attacks lies in maintaining his Burst uptime, increasing his damage output, and ensuring he survives the health drain.
To achieve this, start by focusing on Xiao's energy recharge. His Burst costs 70 energy, which can be challenging to maintain without proper support. Pairing Xiao with an Anemo battery like Sucrose or Jean is crucial. These characters can generate Anemo particles for Xiao, helping him recharge his Burst faster. Sucrose, in particular, is excellent for this role because her Elemental Skill generates multiple particles and her Elemental Mastery buffs can indirectly boost Xiao's Swirl reactions.
Next, consider Xiao's artifact setup. The best artifact set for Xiao is the Vermillion Hereafter, which increases his attack and provides a damage bonus after using his Elemental Burst. If you don't have this set, the 2-piece Viridescent Venerer and 2-piece Gladiator's Finale or Shimenawa's Reminiscence are strong alternatives. Focus on substats like Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Attack Percentage, and Energy Recharge. Aim for a Crit Rate to Crit Damage ratio of at least 1:2, with a minimum of 70% Crit Rate for consistent damage.
For weapons, the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear is Xiao's best-in-slot option, offering high base attack, Crit Rate, and a damage-boosting passive. If you don't have this weapon, the Staff of Homa, Deathmatch, or Blackcliff Pole are excellent alternatives. The Favonius Lance can also be useful if you struggle with energy recharge.
In terms of team composition, Xiao works best with characters who can provide shields, healing, and energy support. Zhongli is an ideal teammate, as his shield reduces resistance and protects Xiao from interruptions. Bennett is another great choice, offering healing and an attack boost with his Burst. For the fourth slot, consider a sub-DPS like Albedo or Fischl, who can deal off-field damage without interfering with Xiao's plunges.
When using Xiao in combat, timing is crucial. Activate his Burst only when you have a clear window to deal damage, as enemies can interrupt his plunges. Use his Elemental Skill, Lemniscatic Wind Cycling, to generate energy and reposition yourself. During his Burst, aim to plunge at the peak of his jump to maximize damage. Avoid spamming plunges too quickly, as this can reduce your overall DPS. Instead, maintain a steady rhythm to ensure each plunge lands effectively.
Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting Xiao's energy needs, using his Burst in unfavorable situations, and failing to manage his health. Always monitor his energy and health levels, and be ready to swap to a healer or shielder if necessary. Additionally, avoid using Xiao against enemies with high Anemo resistance, as this will significantly reduce his damage output.
For advanced optimizations, consider incorporating Swirl reactions into your gameplay. While Xiao's primary damage comes from his plunges, triggering Swirl with elements like Pyro or Electro can add extra damage. Pairing Xiao with characters like Fischl or Xiangling can create opportunities for Swirl reactions, further boosting his overall damage.
In summary, optimizing Xiao's plunge attacks involves careful attention to his energy management, artifact and weapon choices, and team composition. By focusing on these aspects and avoiding common mistakes, you can unleash Xiao's full potential and dominate the battlefield with his powerful plunging attacks.