Xiao’s Ascension Materials: Essential Guide for Genshin Impact Players

Unmasking Xiao: The Conqueror of Demons – A Deep Dive Guide for Genshin Impact Players

You want to unleash Xiao on Teyvat? Good choice! This masked Yaksha has a tragic backstory. He loves plunging attacks. But building Xiao? It takes skill and precision. It’s like crafting perfect almond tofu. Balance is key for sweet, sweet victory.

Ascension Materials: Gearing Up for Greatness

First, let’s discuss ascension. Xiao must ascend first to become the Conqueror of Demons. Think of it as a glow-up montage, but you need materials. Lots of materials.

• Vayuda Turquoise Stones: Xiao is Anemo, so he needs Vayuda Turquoise. Gather slivers, fragments, chunks, and gemstones. You need:
  • x1 Vayuda Turquoise Sliver
  • x9 Vayuda Turquoise Fragment
  • x9 Vayuda Turquoise Chunk
  • x6 Vayuda Turquoise Gemstone

  Where can you find these rocks? Anemo Hypostases and Maguu Kenki drop them. Consider it a scenic tour of Mondstadt and Inazuma.

• Slime Materials: Even a mighty Yaksha needs to deal with slime. A lot of slime. Prepare to defeat many slimes for their… secretions? You’ll require:
  • x18 Slime Condensate
  • x30 Slime Secretions
  • x36 Slime Concentrate

  Slimes are common. Swing by grassy areas and start squishing.

• Juvenile Jade: Juveline Jade drops from the Primo Geovishap. This is no average enemy. This geo-spewing lizard hits hard. You will need x46 Juvenile Jade. Bring a shield character unless you enjoy dodging big geo attacks.

To fully ascend Xiao, you need all the turquoise stones, slime materials, and Juvenile Jades. It’s a grind, but think of the power! Think of those plunging attacks!

Juvenile Jade: Taming the Geo-Vishap for Xiao’s Growth

Let’s focus on Juvenile Jade. This material deserves attention. It comes from the Primo Geovishap, a challenging boss. You need x46 of these crystals. The game says it’s “A crystalline substance taken from a Primo Geovishap.” Sounds fancy, right?

Farming the Primo Geovishap: This boss lives in Liyue, particularly in Tianqiu Valley. Teleport to the Domain of Guyun and go west. The Primo Geovishap lurks in its cave. Prepare for elemental shifts and geo attacks that track you. This fight can test your patience.

Why Juvenile Jade Matters: Juvenile Jade matters beyond ascension. It shows you overcame a challenge. Defeating the Primo Geovishap multiple times is an initiation for aspiring Xiao mains. It proves your dedication to Xiao.

Ascension Stat: Critting Your Way to Victory

Now, let’s talk stats. Xiao’s ascension stat is CRIT Rate. That’s right, CRIT Rate. This is a fantastic stat for Xiao. Why? Because he deals massive damage during his Elemental Burst, “Bane of All Evil.” Critical hits increase that damage even further.

Base vs. Level 90 CRIT Rate: Xiao starts with a base CRIT Rate of 46.3%. That’s respectable. Ascending to level 90 boosts this to 61%. Sixty-one percent! This helps with artifact building immensely. You aim for consistent critical hits for increased damage.

The Importance of CRIT Rate: In Genshin Impact, consistent damage is crucial. It often comes from critical hits. Xiao’s ascension CRIT Rate sets him up well. Focus on CRIT DMG and ATK in artifacts to maximize damage potential. His stat is a gift, a crit-monster ready to dominate.

Xiao’s Names: More Than Just a Mask

Xiao, the masked Yaksha, the Conqueror of Demons. Names carry weight in Teyvat, and Xiao’s names are layered with meaning. Let’s explore these titles.

• Alatus: The Yaksha Name: This is Xiao’s true name as a Yaksha. He was among five powerful Yakshas sent by Morax (now Zhongli) to defeat demonic spirits in Liyue. “Alatus” signifies his ancient role and guardian duties, hinting at tragedy due to his peers’ fates.
• Xiao: The Name of Protection: This name wasn’t his birth name. Zhongli gave him this name. Why? For protection. “Alatus” was linked to his dark past under an evil god. Zhongli saw danger and offered protection through Xiao’s name, indicating compassion for Xiao’s vulnerability.
• Conqueror of Demons, Nuo Dancer of Evil Conquering, Guardian Yaksha: These titles reflect Xiao’s image in Liyue. “Conqueror of Demons” describes his primary role. “Nuo Dancer” connects his rituals warding off evil spirits. These titles emphasize fear and respect he commands.

So when calling him Xiao, remember this name’s kindness. It shields a tormented soul embedded within tragedy.

Xiao’s Hair: Teal Undertones and Brooding Vibes

Let’s lighten up a bit and discuss Xiao’s hair. Yes, even a demon-slaying Yaksha has good hair. Xiao has dark, medium-length hair. Looks simple at first glance.

Dark and Medium-Length: This length suggests practicality. It’s not so long that it hinders combat during plunging attacks. Yet, it isn’t too short either, retaining style. The dark color enhances his serious demeanor, his Yaksha origins, showing power and mystery.

Teal Undertones: Those teal undertones add magic. They hint at his Anemo powers and connection to the wind. Teal symbolizes calmness and clarity, adding depth to his dark hair, making it more striking.

It reveals much about his design.

Next time you play Xiao, notice his hair. It’s not just hair; it’s an element that shapes his persona. Dark and practical, with a hint of teal – his hair captures the essence of the brooding, powerful Yaksha.

Talent Priority: Unleashing Xiao’s Power

Talents are key to character building in Genshin Impact. For Xiao, knowing talent priority maximizes damage output. Let’s examine which talents matter.

• Bane of All Evil (Elemental Burst): Level 7 and Beyond: This is Xiao’s signature move. Prioritize it first. Invest talent books. Aim for level 7 quickly. Why level 7? It’s a power spike. Leveling his Burst increases damage on his enhanced state, making attacks hit hard. If serious about Xiao, prioritize this talent. If you have extra Crowns of Insight, crown Bane of All Evil. It’s the best choice for Burst damage.
• Normal Attack: The Consistent Damage Dealer: After leveling Bane of All Evil (around 7 is good), focus on his Normal Attack. Xiao excels at plunging during his Burst, but his Normal Attacks matter for damage outside of Burst. Leveling increases damage from normal attacks and charged attacks, providing a decent damage boost.
• Whirlwind Thrust (Elemental Skill): Lower Priority: Xiao’s Elemental Skill, Whirlwind Thrust, isn’t a heavy damage skill. It serves a utility role. It aids mobility and energy generation. Its damage scaling is less impactful than Burst or Normal Attacks. Level it later, after prioritizing Bane of All Evil and Normal Attack. Don’t crown Whirlwind Thrust unless you’re optimizing for every scenario.

Talent Leveling Strategy Summary:

1. Bane of All Evil (Elemental Burst): Level to at least 7 first, then keep leveling. Consider crowning if dedicated to Xiao.
2. Normal Attack: Level after Burst, focusing on consistent damage.
3. Whirlwind Thrust (Elemental Skill): Level last for utility and energy particle generation.

Talent leveling is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on Bane of All Evil first, then Normal Attack, to unlock Xiao’s potential.

Artifacts: Dressing Xiao for Success

Artifacts play a key role in Genshin Impact. Choosing right ones for Xiao maximizes damage. A clear best-in-slot set exists along with alternatives.

• 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter: Xiao’s Best-in-Slot: This set is perfect for Xiao. It synergizes with his Elemental Burst. The 2-piece bonus gives an ATK +18%. The 4-piece bonus is powerful: after an Elemental Burst, gain an 8% ATK increase for 16 seconds. If HP decreases, ATK rises by 10%. It stacks up to 4 times and triggers every 0.8 seconds. Since Xiao’s Burst reduces HP, he’ll trigger this buff often, leading to massive damage. Farm Vermillion Hereafter domain for a 4-piece set.
• Artifact Main Stats: The Holy Trinity:
  • Sands: ATK%: More attack means more damage. ATK% Sands is best for Xiao. Energy Recharge Sands is a poor choice unless energy issues are critical.
  • Goblet: Anemo DMG Bonus: He deals Anemo damage during Burst. An Anemo DMG Bonus Goblet boosts that damage. Obvious choice.
  • Circlet: CRIT Rate or CRIT DMG: Depends on substats and weapon. Aim for a 1:2 CRIT Rate:CRIT DMG ratio. If CRIT Rate lacks, choose CRIT Rate Circlet. Good CRIT Rate (70%) allows for CRIT DMG Circlet.
• Alternative Artifact Sets: When Vermillion is Elusive: If Vermillion Hereafter is unavailable or you’re new, use alternatives:
  • 2-piece Viridescent Venerer + 2-piece ATK Set: Solid general option. 2-piece Viridescent provides Anemo DMG Bonus, while 2-piece ATK boosts overall attack. Good placeholder until you find a proper 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter.
• Substats: The Devil is in the Details: Substats matter as much as main stats. Focus on these substats for artifacts:
  • CRIT Rate
  • CRIT DMG
  • ATK%
  • Energy Recharge (if necessary)

  Aim for a balance of CRIT Rate and CRIT DMG substats. ATK% is always beneficial. Energy Recharge helps if you struggle with consistently using your Burst.

Farming for artifacts can be tedious but rewarding for Xiao. Vermillion Hereafter is the goal, but feel free to use 2-piece sets while farming the best pieces.

Weapons: Arming Xiao for Victory

Weapons are crucial for Xiao’s build. Fortunately, he has several excellent options ranging from 5-star to 4-star and even 3-star choices.

• Tier 1: 5-Star Best-in-Slot – Primordial Jade Winged-Spear & Staff of Homa: These weapons lead his arsenal.
  • Primordial Jade Winged-Spear: Xiao’s Signature Weapon: Made for him, this weapon has high base attack with stacking ATK and CRIT Rate bonuses. More attacks mean stronger Xiao. This suits his plunge-heavy playstyle perfectly.
  • Staff of Homa: The Versatile Powerhouse: Though not his signature weapon, it works wonders in many situations. It provides high CRIT DMG and boosts HP and ATK (more ATK when HP falls below 50%). Since his Burst drains HP, it’s easy to trigger Homa’s potential.

  These weapons are closely matched, usually vying for the top spot. Jade Winged-Spear is slightly more consistent due to its stacking bonuses, while Homa offers higher damage potential when HP is low.

• Tier 2: Excellent 5-Star Alternatives: Skyward Spine: If you lack Jade Winged-Spear or Staff of Homa, Skyward Spine is a solid alternative. It offers Energy Recharge to aid Burst uptime, alongside bonuses to CRIT Rate and Normal Attack speed.
• Tier 3: Strong 4-Star Options: Lithic Spear & Blackcliff Pole: These weapons perform well under certain circumstances.
  • Lithic Spear: Liyue Team Synergy: Its passive boosts ATK% and CRIT Rate based on Liyue characters in your party, making it powerful in a Liyue-centric team.
  • Blackcliff Pole: Enemy-Clearing Power: With a CRIT DMG substat, it raises ATK% after defeating an enemy. Great for content with enemy waves.
• Functional Options: Favonius Lance, White Tassel, Prototype Archaic, Whiteblind: These weapons are common. They provide decent options for new players with limited choices.
  • Favonius Lance: Energy Recharge Support: Favonius Lance helps with energy recharge. Its passive creates energy particles on crits, aiding the team. It is ideal if Burst consistency is a struggle.
  • White Tassel: Crit Value on a Budget: This 3-star weapon is surprisingly effective. It offers CRIT Rate and boosts Normal Attack damage. If you lack crit value and use Normal Attacks outside of Burst, White Tassel is a useful option.
  • Prototype Archaic: AoE Damage Focus: Prototype Archaic (craftable) has high base ATK and a passive that deals AoE damage on Normal or Charged Attacks. It helps clear mobs faster outside of Burst.
  • Whiteblind: Durability Focus: Whiteblind (craftable) offers DEF% and boosts ATK and DEF after hitting enemies with Normal or Charged Attacks. While DEF does not directly enhance Xiao’s damage, the ATK increase can aid him and improve survivability, especially with shielders like Noelle or Xinyan.

Choosing the right weapon for Xiao hinges on your resources and playstyle. Primordial Jade Winged-Spear and Staff of Homa stand out, but many alternatives are viable. Keep your team composition, artifact stats, and energy recharge needs in mind.

Energy Recharge (ER): Keeping Xiao’s Burst Up and Running

Energy Recharge (ER) is vital for Xiao. His Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil, is the main damage source. You want to use it consistently. But energy generation is not strong, so manage ER carefully.

• General ER Recommendations: 120% – 140%: Aim for around 120% to 140% Energy Recharge on Xiao. This range provides consistent Burst uptime in most team builds. However, it is not fixed and can vary based on several factors.
• Team Composition Matters: Anemo Batteries and Faruzan C6: Your team layout greatly affects Xiao’s ER needs.
  • Triple Anemo Teams: Higher ER Needs (Around 140%): In teams with multiple Anemo characters (like Xiao/Jean/Sucrose/Zhongli), you may need about 140% ER, especially without dedicated batteries.
  • C6 Faruzan: Lower ER Needs: C6 Faruzan significantly improves Xiao’s energy generation. With her, you can comfortably run Xiao with less ER, around 120% or lower depending on your rotation.
  • Other Anemo Supports (Sucrose, Lynette): Moderate ER Needs (130-140% or More): Other Anemo supports like Sucrose or Lynette help, but their battery functions are weaker than C6 Faruzan. You may still need about 130-140% ER in such setups.
• Favonius Weapons on Supports: Alleviating ER Pressure: Equipping Favonius weapons to support characters helps Xiao’s ER needs. Favonius weapons create energy particles with crits, benefiting everyone. This method supplements Xiao’s energy generation without lowering his damage.
• Xiao’s C1: Minor ER Reduction: Xiao’s Constellation 1 grants him an extra charge of his Elemental Skill, Whirlwind Thrust. This lets him generate more Anemo particles, slightly easing his ER requirements. However, C1 isn’t a major fix; it’s just a helpful bonus.
• Xiao ER Calculator: For Precise Needs: For precise ER assessment, use the Xiao ER Calculator from Genshin communities. It considers your team composition, rotation, and other factors for a personalized recommendation.

In summary, aim for 120%-140% ER as a starting point. Adjust according to your team, supports, and weapon choices. C6 Faruzan and Favonius weapons can lower ER needs significantly, while triple Anemo teams may need slightly higher ER. Experiment to ensure Burst uptime for maximum damage.

CRIT Rate and CRIT DMG: The Delicate Balance for Devastating Damage

We’ve discussed CRIT Rate and CRIT DMG before but let’s explore achieving the perfect balance for Xiao. Simply stacking one won’t work. It’s about harmony, a 1:2 ratio, a symphony of critical strikes.

• Minimum 70% CRIT Rate: Consistency is Key: Aim for at least 70% CRIT Rate on Xiao. Why this goal? Consistency in damage is essential. You want those plunging strikes to crit often, not rarely. Hitting 70% ensures most hits will crit, leading to steady damage output. Dropping below this could mean frustrating variance in damage. Xiao’s inherent CRIT Rate is already high (61% at level 90), so reaching 70% is achievable with artifacts and a CRIT Rate Circlet.
• The 1:2 Ratio: CRIT Rate : CRIT DMG: The recommended CRIT stats ratio is generally 1:2 (CRIT Rate : CRIT DMG). For every 1% CRIT Rate, aim for roughly 2% CRIT DMG. This ratio maximizes your damage output. Given Xiao’s high base CRIT Rate, you may lean toward stacking more CRIT DMG. Nonetheless, maintain that necessary 70% minimum CRIT Rate.
• Artifact Substat Prioritization: Avoiding Overcapping: Since Xiao’s ascension stat and some weapons give him CRIT Rate, watch out for overcapping. If you exceed 90% CRIT Rate, you may overspend on CRIT Rate at the cost of CRIT DMG. In that case, focus on substats that offer CRIT DMG to get closer to a good 1:2 ratio and optimize your damage potential. Remember, exceeding 100% CRIT Rate serves no purpose; you cannot crit more than that.

Finding the ideal CRIT ratio involves ongoing artifact farming and optimization. Use a CRIT Rate Circlet if needed to achieve that 70% minimum and look to stack CRIT DMG substats while keeping a balanced ratio. Tools such as Genshin Optimizer can help analyze builds and highlight areas needing adjustment.

Xiao’s Weaknesses: Acknowledging the Flaws for Smarter Play

Even the strong Conqueror of Demons has flaws. Recognizing Xiao’s weaknesses is essential for effective play and mitigating these through strategy.

• Weapon Selection: Limited Optimal Choices: While Xiao has viable weapon options, his optimal choices are limited at the 5-star level. Primordial Jade Winged-Spear and Staff of Homa are far superior to other 5-star polearms for him regarding damage potential. Skyward Spine is a decent option but does not match their level. Thus, for peak performance, one of these top-tier weapons is ideal. However, many strong 4-star options can still make Xiao effective without his best-in-slot weapons.
• ER% Sands: Damage Loss Trap: Using an Energy Recharge Sands on Xiao usually results in significant damage loss. Energy recharge is important but sacrificing your main stat slot for ER is not advisable. ATK% Sands vastly increases damage instead. Instead of ER Sands, gather energy recharge from substats or utilize support setups generating more energy efficiently.
• Abyss Rotation Dependency: Burst Downtime Vulnerability:Xiao relies heavily on his Elemental Burst for damage output. Without it active, his damage reduces greatly. This makes him vulnerable during Abyss rotations where enemies disrupt your setup or force character switches frequently, leading to Burst downtimes. Careful rotation planning helps this issue alongside using energy-gathering supports and effective enemy wave management.
• can help mitigate this weakness.
• Burst Doesn’t Snapshot: Buff Awareness: Xiao’s Burst, Bane of All Evil, does not snapshot buffs. This means buffs from before his Burst start do not last. If they expire during his Burst, they vanish. For instance, use Bennett’s Burst, then switch to Xiao. If Bennett’s Burst ends early, his ATK buff is lost mid-Xiao-Burst. To maximize buffs, align durations. Buffs should last longer than Xiao’s Burst. Alternatively, time buffs for reapplication during his Burst, though this is hard in fast-paced combat. Be aware of buff timings when crafting team rotations for Xiao.

Seeing these weaknesses does not lessen Xiao’s power. It allows you to play smarter. Build teams that enhance his strengths and cover weaknesses. Optimize your gameplay for maximum effectiveness.

Teams: Assembling the Perfect Squad for the Vigilant Yaksha

Team composition is critical in Genshin Impact. Xiao needs a supportive team to thrive. Energy needs matter. Support boosts damage output key to unleashing his full potential.

• Core Supports: Anemo Batteries & Shielders: Some support characters work best with Xiao.
  • Anemo Batteries (Jean, Sucrose, Faruzan): Anemo batteries help Xiao use his Burst often. Jean and Sucrose create Anemo particles, giving healing or crowd control. C6 Faruzan offers Anemo DMG Bonus and RES shred.
  • Shielders (Zhongli, Layla, Diona): Xiao’s Burst reduces HP, causing vulnerability to interruption. Shielders offer protection. They prevent interruptions during plunge attacks. Zhongli serves as an outstanding shielder.