How do I use the new Serpent's Spine reactions effectively in Genshin Impact?

The Serpent's Spine is a powerful claymore in Genshin Impact, known for its ability to increase damage output based on the number of hits taken by the wielder. To use the Serpent's Spine effectively, especially in the context of elemental reactions, you need to understand its mechanics and how to integrate it into your team composition and combat strategies.

First, let's break down the mechanics of the Serpent's Spine. This weapon increases the wielder's damage by a certain percentage for every hit they take, up to a maximum of five stacks. Each stack increases damage by a set amount, and the stacks are lost if the character takes damage. This means that maintaining these stacks is crucial for maximizing damage output. To do this, you need to avoid taking damage as much as possible, which can be challenging in combat.

To effectively use the Serpent's Spine, you should focus on characters who can benefit from its damage boost and who can avoid taking damage. Characters like Beidou, Diluc, and Eula are excellent choices because they have strong damage-dealing abilities and can benefit from the increased damage output. Beidou, for example, can use her counter ability to avoid taking damage while still dealing significant damage to enemies. Diluc and Eula, on the other hand, have high base damage and can make the most of the increased damage from the Serpent's Spine.

When building a team around the Serpent's Spine, you should consider characters who can provide shields or healing to help maintain the stacks. Zhongli is an excellent choice for a shield provider, as his shield is one of the strongest in the game and can absorb a significant amount of damage. Diona is another good option, as she can provide both healing and shields. Bennett is also a great choice for his healing and attack buffs, which can further increase the damage output of the Serpent's Spine wielder.

In terms of elemental reactions, the Serpent's Spine can be used effectively in teams that focus on reactions like Vaporize, Melt, and Superconduct. For example, if you are using Diluc as your main DPS, you can pair him with Xingqiu to trigger Vaporize reactions, which will significantly increase your damage output. Similarly, if you are using Eula, you can pair her with Fischl or Raiden Shogun to trigger Superconduct reactions, which will reduce the physical resistance of enemies and increase Eula's damage.

Artifact selection is also crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of the Serpent's Spine. For characters like Diluc and Beidou, the Crimson Witch of Flames set is an excellent choice, as it increases Pyro damage and enhances the damage of elemental reactions. For Eula, the Pale Flame set is ideal, as it increases physical damage and provides an attack bonus. For sub-DPS characters like Xingqiu and Fischl, the Emblem of Severed Fate set is a good choice, as it increases energy recharge and burst damage.

When it comes to weapon optimization, the Serpent's Spine is already a strong choice, but you can further enhance its effectiveness by refining it. Each refinement increases the damage bonus per stack, so refining the weapon as much as possible will significantly increase your damage output. Additionally, you should focus on upgrading the weapon to its maximum level and enhancing its stats through artifact substats and main stats.

In combat, it's important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to losing stacks. One common mistake is not paying attention to enemy attacks and taking unnecessary damage. To avoid this, you should always be aware of enemy patterns and dodge or block attacks whenever possible. Another mistake is not using shields or healing effectively, which can lead to losing stacks. Make sure to use your shield and healing abilities at the right time to maintain your stacks and maximize your damage output.

Advanced techniques for using the Serpent's Spine include timing your bursts and abilities to maximize damage during the window when you have full stacks. For example, if you are using Beidou, you can use her burst when you have full stacks to deal massive damage to multiple enemies. Similarly, if you are using Diluc, you can use his elemental skill and burst in quick succession to trigger multiple Vaporize reactions and deal massive damage.

In specific scenarios, such as the Spiral Abyss, the Serpent's Spine can be particularly effective. In the Spiral Abyss, you often face multiple waves of enemies, and maintaining your stacks can be challenging. To overcome this, you should focus on clearing waves quickly and using your shield and healing abilities effectively. Additionally, you should pay attention to the elemental weaknesses of the enemies and adjust your team composition accordingly.

In conclusion, the Serpent's Spine is a powerful weapon that can significantly increase your damage output if used correctly. By understanding its mechanics, building a strong team, selecting the right artifacts, and avoiding common mistakes, you can maximize its effectiveness and dominate in combat. Whether you are facing tough bosses or challenging Spiral Abyss floors, the Serpent's Spine can be a valuable asset in your arsenal.