How do I solve the sand pillar puzzle in the Sumeru desert in Genshin Impact?

The sand pillar puzzle in the Sumeru desert is one of the more intricate environmental puzzles in Genshin Impact, requiring players to manipulate sand flow and interact with specific mechanisms to unlock hidden treasures or progress through the area. This puzzle is tied to the desert's unique mechanics, which involve sand currents, pressure plates, and elemental interactions. Here's a detailed guide to help you solve it.

First, let's break down the mechanics involved. The sand pillar puzzle typically consists of several sand pillars that can be raised or lowered by interacting with nearby mechanisms. These mechanisms are often pressure plates or elemental totems that require specific actions to activate. The goal is to align the sand pillars in a way that allows you to access a hidden area or chest. Sometimes, the puzzle also involves using the environment, such as sand currents or wind currents, to reach higher platforms or activate distant mechanisms.

To solve the puzzle, start by observing the area. Look for any pressure plates, elemental totems, or sand pillars that can be interacted with. Pressure plates usually require a character or object to stand on them, while elemental totems need to be activated with the corresponding element. For example, an Electro totem will require an Electro character to activate it. Once you identify the mechanisms, plan the order in which you will activate them. Some puzzles require multiple steps, so it's important to approach them methodically.

Next, activate the mechanisms in the correct sequence. For example, if there are pressure plates, place a character or a Geo construct on them to trigger the sand pillars. If there are elemental totems, use the appropriate character to activate them. Once the mechanisms are activated, the sand pillars will rise or lower, creating a path or revealing a hidden area. Be patient and take your time to ensure you activate the mechanisms in the correct order.

Important tips and considerations include bringing a versatile team with characters of different elements. This will allow you to activate any elemental totems you encounter. Characters like Zhongli or Albedo, who can create Geo constructs, are particularly useful for pressure plates. Additionally, having a character with a bow can help you activate distant mechanisms or hit targets that are out of reach. It's also a good idea to bring a character with high mobility, such as Kazuha or Venti, to help you navigate the environment more easily.

Common mistakes to avoid include rushing through the puzzle without observing the area first. This can lead to missing important mechanisms or activating them in the wrong order. Another mistake is not bringing a versatile team, which can make it difficult to activate certain mechanisms. Additionally, be mindful of the environment, as some puzzles require you to use sand currents or wind currents to reach certain areas. Failing to utilize these environmental features can make the puzzle more difficult than it needs to be.

Advanced techniques or optimizations include using characters with abilities that can interact with multiple mechanisms at once. For example, Zhongli's Stone Stele can activate multiple pressure plates if placed correctly. Additionally, using characters with crowd control abilities, such as Sucrose or Venti, can help you manipulate the environment more effectively. Another optimization is to use the environment to your advantage, such as using sand currents to reach higher platforms or activate distant mechanisms.

Team composition suggestions for this puzzle include a mix of characters with different elements and abilities. A recommended team might include Zhongli for his Geo constructs, Fischl for her Electro abilities, Kazuha for his mobility and crowd control, and Bennett for his healing and buffs. This team provides a good balance of elemental coverage, mobility, and utility, making it easier to solve the puzzle.

Artifact and weapon recommendations focus on enhancing your characters' abilities and survivability. For Zhongli, the Tenacity of the Millelith artifact set is ideal for increasing his shield strength and providing team buffs. Fischl benefits from the Thundering Fury set, which boosts her Electro damage. Kazuha can use the Viridescent Venerer set to increase his Anemo damage and reduce enemy resistance. Bennett should use the Noblesse Oblige set to enhance his healing and buffing capabilities. For weapons, Zhongli can use the Staff of Homa or the Black Tassel, Fischl can use the Stringless or the Skyward Harp, Kazuha can use the Freedom-Sworn or the Iron Sting, and Bennett can use the Aquila Favonia or the Festering Desire.

Specific examples and scenarios include a puzzle where you need to activate three pressure plates to raise three sand pillars. In this case, place a Geo construct on each pressure plate to trigger the pillars. Another scenario might involve activating an Electro totem and a Pyro totem to lower two sand pillars. Use Fischl to activate the Electro totem and Bennett to activate the Pyro totem. Once the pillars are lowered, you can access the hidden area or chest.

In conclusion, solving the sand pillar puzzle in the Sumeru desert requires careful observation, methodical planning, and a versatile team. By understanding the mechanics, following the step-by-step instructions, and considering the tips and optimizations provided, you can successfully navigate the puzzle and uncover its secrets. Remember to bring a balanced team, use the environment to your advantage, and avoid common mistakes to make the puzzle-solving process smoother and more enjoyable.