What is the best way to use elemental reactions in timed challenges in Genshin Impact?

In timed challenges in Genshin Impact, mastering elemental reactions is crucial for maximizing damage output and completing objectives efficiently. Elemental reactions occur when two or more elements interact, creating effects like Vaporize, Melt, Overload, and more. These reactions can significantly boost your damage, making them essential for clearing timed challenges. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to use elemental reactions effectively in these scenarios.

First, understand the mechanics of elemental reactions. Each reaction has a unique effect. For example, Vaporize (Hydro + Pyro) and Melt (Cryo + Pyro) amplify damage, while Overload (Pyro + Electro) causes an explosion that deals AoE damage. Swirl (Anemo + any element) spreads the element to nearby enemies, and Electro-Charged (Hydro + Electro) deals continuous damage over time. Knowing which reactions to prioritize depends on your team composition and the enemies you face.

To start, build a team with characters that complement each otherÔÇÖs elements. For example, a Pyro DPS like Hu Tao or Diluc pairs well with a Hydro support like Xingqiu for consistent Vaporize reactions. Alternatively, a Cryo DPS like Ayaka can work with a Pyro support like Bennett for Melt reactions. Anemo characters like Sucrose or Kazuha are excellent for grouping enemies and triggering Swirl reactions, which can spread elements and set up further reactions.

Next, focus on timing and rotation. In timed challenges, you need to trigger reactions quickly and efficiently. Start by applying an element to the enemy, then use another characterÔÇÖs ability to trigger the reaction. For example, use XingqiuÔÇÖs Elemental Burst to apply Hydro, then switch to Hu Tao to trigger Vaporize with her Pyro attacks. Proper energy management is also key. Ensure your supports have enough Energy Recharge to use their abilities frequently, as this allows for consistent reaction triggers.

Artifacts and weapons play a significant role in optimizing elemental reactions. For DPS characters, prioritize artifacts that boost their elemental damage, such as Crimson Witch of Flames for Pyro characters or Blizzard Strayer for Cryo characters. Supports should focus on Energy Recharge and Elemental Mastery to increase reaction damage. Weapons like the Sacrificial Sword for Xingqiu or the Favonius Warbow for Diona can help with energy generation, ensuring your abilities are always ready.

Avoid common mistakes like neglecting Elemental Mastery or using reactions inefficiently. Elemental Mastery directly increases the damage of reactions, so donÔÇÖt overlook it when building your characters. Also, avoid triggering reactions with the wrong element. For example, using Pyro on a Cryo-affected enemy will trigger Melt, but using Cryo on a Pyro-affected enemy will trigger a weaker version of Melt. Always aim to trigger the stronger version of the reaction.

Advanced techniques include pre-setting reactions and using Anemo characters to group enemies. For example, use SucroseÔÇÖs Elemental Skill to group enemies and apply an element, then switch to your DPS to trigger reactions on multiple targets at once. Another technique is to use BennettÔÇÖs Elemental Burst to apply Pyro, then switch to a Cryo character like Ganyu to trigger Melt repeatedly.

In specific scenarios, like fighting against groups of enemies or bosses, adapt your strategy. For groups, use AoE reactions like Overload or Swirl to deal damage to multiple enemies simultaneously. For bosses, focus on single-target reactions like Vaporize or Melt to maximize damage on a single target.

In summary, mastering elemental reactions in timed challenges involves understanding reaction mechanics, building a synergistic team, optimizing artifacts and weapons, and executing efficient rotations. By focusing on these aspects, you can significantly improve your performance in timed challenges and clear them with ease.