Unpacking the Vortex Vanquisher: Is This Polearm a True Game-Changer?
So, you’re interested in the Vortex Vanquisher in Genshin Impact? With a name like that, it sounds fierce. But does it live up to expectations? Let’s explore this five-star polearm and see if it’s worth pursuing.
Vortex Vanquisher 101: The Basics
The Vortex Vanquisher is a five-star polearm. This means it ranks high in Teyvat’s weapon category. Its stats impress. It boasts a Base ATK of 608. That’s quite powerful. Bringing a weapon like this to a hilichurl fight can change the game.
Alongside that Base ATK, there’s a strong ATK% substat, reaching 49.6%. This weapon screams for more attack. If your tactics involve high damage, the Vortex Vanquisher fits into your plans well. It encourages aggressive play styles.
Golden Majesty: Unleashing the Passive Power
Next, let’s examine its passive ability, called Golden Majesty. This ability sounds grand, but it has specific effects. With the first effect, you gain a 20% Shield Strength bonus. This is solid, but there’s a catch.
This shield strength boost only applies to the user. So don’t expect team-wide defenses. It’s a bit selfish, like hoarding treats for yourself. The key benefit of Golden Majesty is the ATK increase while shielded.
This means to maximize its potential, you need a strong shield. More attack is useful, but consider how to activate it for optimal results.
Zhongli and the Vortex Vanquisher: A Mismatch Made in Liyue?
This is where things get tricky. The Vortex Vanquisher is seen as Zhongli’s signature weapon. While thematically fitting, it has gameplay issues. The passive activates only when the user is fielded.
Zhongli typically serves as a support character. He uses his stele and shield, then steps back for the damage dealers. This creates a problem: he may not benefit from the ATK bonuses unless you’re using him for damage.
If you think you can just slap the Vortex Vanquisher on Zhongli, you might reconsider. It’s not a bad choice, but it’s not optimal. There are polearms that work better with his support style.
Beyond Zhongli: Who Else Can Wield the Vortex?
Maybe the Vortex Vanquisher doesn’t fit Zhongli, but what about other polearm users? Will this weapon gather dust in your inventory?
No, there are characters who can utilize it well. Consider Shenhe. Although she focuses on Cryo damage, the significant ATK% from this polearm can still be beneficial.
Then there’s Xiao. This weapon is also a solid choice for him. Xiao relies on high ATK for plunge damage, and the Vortex Vanquisher delivers. If you lack his signature weapon, it serves as a good alternative.
Vortex Vanquisher vs. Calamity Queller: Attack Titans Clash
Now let’s compare the Vortex Vanquisher with another ATK-focused polearm: the Calamity Queller. Both weapons enhance damage for Xiao effectively. They emphasize boosting attack power and suit characters scaling off ATK.
Your choice depends on your team composition. Both weapons are viable for damage-focused polearm users.
The Verdict: Is the Vortex Vanquisher Worth the Hype (and the Primogems)?
So, is the Vortex Vanquisher a must-have? For Zhongli, many argue “no,” it isn’t worth it. Other weapons serve him better in support roles. However, for high ATK characters like Xiao or Shenhe in specific setups, it’s a solid 5-star option.
It may not be the top choice for everyone, yet it’s powerful in the right hands. Don’t expect it to turn Zhongli into a hyper-carry. Even the coolest weapons need strategic use.
Bonus Fun Fact: Size Matters (in Replicas, at Least)
If you ever wanted to wield a Vortex Vanquisher in real life (for cosplay, not for fights), a replica is about 100 cm (or 39.4 inches) long. If you craft one, ensure you have space to swing it safely!