How do I use the new Hydro reactions effectively in Genshin Impact?

To effectively use the new Hydro reactions in Genshin Impact, it is essential to understand the mechanics of Hydro-based elemental reactions and how they interact with other elements. Hydro is a versatile element that can create powerful reactions like Vaporize, Electro-Charged, Frozen, and Bloom. Each of these reactions has unique benefits and can be optimized for different combat scenarios.

First, letÔÇÖs break down the mechanics of Hydro reactions. Vaporize occurs when Hydro meets Pyro or vice versa, dealing either 1.5x or 2x damage depending on which element triggers the reaction. Electro-Charged happens when Hydro meets Electro, dealing continuous Electro damage over time and spreading to nearby enemies. Frozen occurs when Hydro meets Cryo, immobilizing enemies and allowing for Shatter reactions with heavy attacks. Bloom is a Dendro-based reaction where Hydro and Dendro create Dendro Cores, which can explode or be transformed into other reactions like Hyperbloom or Burgeon.

To use these reactions effectively, start by building a team that complements Hydro characters. For Vaporize, pair a Hydro DPS like Tartaglia or Ayato with a Pyro support like Xiangling or Bennett. Apply Hydro first, then use Pyro to trigger Vaporize for maximum damage. For Electro-Charged, use characters like Raiden Shogun or Fischl alongside a Hydro enabler like Kokomi or Xingqiu. This setup allows for continuous damage and crowd control. For Frozen teams, combine Hydro characters like Mona or Barbara with Cryo characters like Ganyu or Ayaka to lock enemies in place and set up for Shatter or critical hits. For Bloom reactions, use Dendro characters like Nahida or Collei with Hydro characters like Nilou or Yelan to create Dendro Cores and trigger additional reactions.

When executing these strategies, timing is crucial. For Vaporize, ensure your Hydro character applies the element before your Pyro character triggers the reaction. For Electro-Charged, maintain consistent Hydro and Electro application to maximize damage over time. For Frozen, alternate between Hydro and Cryo applications to keep enemies immobilized. For Bloom, focus on creating as many Dendro Cores as possible and use Electro or Pyro to trigger Hyperbloom or Burgeon for additional damage.

Important tips include managing energy recharge for your characters to ensure their bursts are available when needed. Use artifacts that enhance Elemental Mastery, such as the WandererÔÇÖs Troupe or Gilded Dreams sets, to boost reaction damage. For Hydro characters, prioritize artifacts that increase Hydro damage and critical stats, like the Heart of Depth set. Weapons like the Mistsplitter Reforged or The Stringless can further enhance reaction damage and elemental application.

Common mistakes to avoid include overloading your team with too many elements, which can dilute your reaction potential. Avoid using Hydro and Pyro together without a clear strategy, as this can lead to inconsistent Vaporize triggers. Also, be mindful of enemy resistances and immunities, as some enemies may resist certain elements or reactions.

Advanced techniques involve optimizing rotations to maximize reaction uptime. For example, in a Vaporize team, use BennettÔÇÖs burst to buff your Hydro DPS before triggering Vaporize with XianglingÔÇÖs Pyronado. In Electro-Charged teams, use Raiden ShogunÔÇÖs skill to apply Electro consistently while XingqiuÔÇÖs burst provides continuous Hydro application. For Bloom teams, use NahidaÔÇÖs skill to mark enemies and ensure Dendro application before using Hydro skills to create Dendro Cores.

Team composition suggestions include a Vaporize team with Tartaglia, Xiangling, Bennett, and Kazuha for crowd control and damage amplification. An Electro-Charged team could feature Kokomi, Raiden Shogun, Fischl, and Sucrose for continuous damage and crowd control. A Frozen team might include Ayaka, Mona, Diona, and Venti for crowd control and burst damage. A Bloom team could use Nilou, Nahida, Yelan, and Kokomi for consistent Dendro Core creation and reaction triggers.

Artifact and weapon recommendations vary by character and role. For Hydro DPS characters, prioritize the Heart of Depth set with Hydro damage bonus and critical stats. For support characters, consider the Noblesse Oblige set for burst damage or the Tenacity of the Millelith set for team buffs. Weapons like the Mistsplitter Reforged, The Stringless, and Favonius weapons are excellent choices for enhancing reaction damage and energy recharge.

Specific examples include using TartagliaÔÇÖs melee stance to apply Hydro quickly before switching to XianglingÔÇÖs Pyronado for Vaporize triggers. In an Electro-Charged team, use KokomiÔÇÖs skill to apply Hydro while Raiden ShogunÔÇÖs skill continuously applies Electro for sustained damage. In a Frozen team, use AyakaÔÇÖs burst to deal massive damage to frozen enemies while MonaÔÇÖs skill keeps them immobilized. In a Bloom team, use NilouÔÇÖs skill to create a Hydro aura while NahidaÔÇÖs skill marks enemies for Dendro Core creation.

By understanding these mechanics, strategies, and optimizations, you can effectively use Hydro reactions to dominate in Genshin Impact. Focus on team synergy, timing, and artifact optimization to maximize your damage and control the battlefield.