Materials Required for Building Xiao in Genshin Impact: A Complete Guide

Unmasking Xiao: Your Guide to Building the Vigilant Yaksha in Genshin Impact

You want to unleash Xiao on Teyvat? Good choice. This adeptus has karmic debt. He wields a sharp polearm. Before you send him into battle, gear him up. This guide will turn him from a boy with a spear into a DPS powerhouse. No fluff here, just facts.

I. Gearing Up the Yaksha: Xiao’s Build

Building Xiao requires precision and optimization. It’s not about just any artifacts. We will explore artifacts that enhance his plunges. We will also cover weapons that fit his combat style. Think of this as your armory dedicated to Xiao.

A. Artifacts: Preparing Xiao for Success

Artifacts can be frustrating yet crucial. Choosing the right set maximizes damage output. Let’s examine the best options for Xiao.

Best in Slot: 4-Piece Vermillion Hereafter

Want to make Xiao’s plunge attacks powerful? The 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter set boosts ATK after using an Elemental Burst. Xiao’s playstyle centers on his Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil. Perfect match for his abilities.

Here’s what it offers:

• 2-Piece Bonus: ATK +18%
• 4-Piece Bonus: After an Elemental Burst, the character gains Nascent Light effect, increasing ATK by 8% for 16s. When HP decreases, ATK increases by 10%, stacking 4 times. Effect triggers every 0.8s. Nascent Light is lost when leaving the field.

Vermillion Hereafter transforms Xiao into a damage dealer during his burst. It amplifies plunge damage significantly. This set is the gold standard for maximizing damage.

Solid Alternatives: Desert Pavilion Chronicle and Marechaussee Hunter

Let’s be real. Artifact farming is harsh. You might find yourself with different pieces while searching for Vermillion Hereafter. Don’t worry. Alternatives exist that hold their own against it. Consider Desert Pavilion Chronicle and Marechaussee Hunter sets.

4-Piece Desert Pavilion Chronicle:

• 2-Piece Bonus: Anemo DMG Bonus +15%
• 4-Piece Bonus: After Charged Attacks hit opponents, Normal Attack SPD increases by 10%. Normal, Charged, and Plunging Attack DMG will increase by 40% for 15s.

This set might seem focused on Charged Attacks, yet it boosts Plunging Attack DMG well. This makes it a strong choice for Xiao. If you have good Desert Pavilion pieces, try them out. You may find them surprisingly effective.

4-Piece Marechaussee Hunter:

• 2-Piece Bonus: Normal and Charged Attack DMG +15%
• 4-Piece Bonus: CRIT Rate increases by 12% for 5s when current HP increases or decreases, stacking up to 3 times.

Marechaussee Hunter may seem odd at first. However, as Xiao loses HP constantly during his burst, the bonus activates often. This grants him a significant CRIT Rate boost. It can also help you meet that ideal CRIT Rate threshold.

The Golden Rule: Substats Over Sets

Remember this rule: substats often outweigh set bonuses. An excellent set of Desert Pavilion with fantastic substats may outshine a mediocre Vermillion Hereafter set. Focus on good main stats and substats first, then consider set bonuses.

Main Stats: The Keys to Damage

Now let’s discuss main stats. These are essential for maximizing Xiao’s damage. They form the foundation of his build.

• Sands: ATK% – More ATK means more damage. It boosts Xiao’s damage significantly.
• Goblet: Anemo DMG Bonus – As Anemo DPS, choose an Anemo DMG Bonus goblet. It increases his primary source of damage during burst.
• Circlet: CRIT Rate or CRIT DMG – Aim for around 70% CRIT Rate and 140%+ CRIT DMG. Adjust based on your current stats to maintain good ratios.

B. Weapons: Equipping Xiao for Combat

Xiao is only as powerful as his weapon. While he can use any polearm, some outshine the others for his skills. Let’s look at the best options.

Best in Slot: Primordial Jade Winged-Spear

The Primordial Jade Winged-Spear is the weapon for Xiao. It features a high base ATK and great synergy with his skills.

Reasons it excels:

• High Base ATK: Provides a strong foundation for scaling damage.
• CRIT Rate Substat: The substat helps reach the ideal 70% CRIT Rate target.
• Passive Efficiency: Its passive ability stacks ATK% and DMG% through attacks, easy to stack during burst.

This weapon amplifies all aspects of Xiao’s gameplay: ATK, CRIT Rate, and DMG. To maximize his potential, pulling for this weapon is an excellent idea.

Budget Option: Deathmatch

Not everyone can pull a Primordial Jade Winged-Spear from the gacha system. If you seek an effective alternative, use the Deathmatch. This Battle Pass weapon works well with Xiao.

Why Deathmatch is deadly:

• CRIT Rate Substat: Deathmatch features a CRIT Rate substat (36.8% at max). This makes managing CRIT Rate easier.
• Solid Passive: The passive grants an ATK and DEF buff near 2 or more enemies and a larger ATK buff if there are fewer. Both outcomes benefit Xiao, particularly in mob-heavy content and boss fights.

Deathmatch balances damage and accessibility. It is a reliable option that allows Xiao to excel. You do not need to rely on the weapon banner. If you seek a strong 4-star weapon for Xiao, Deathmatch is the ideal choice.

Other Weapon Options: The “Good Enough” Gang

Let’s face it. You may not have a Primordial Jade Winged-Spear or Deathmatch nearby. Your luck might be poor or you’re saving Primogems for another character. In those cases, some polearms work for Xiao. They may not maximize his potential, but they are “good enough.”

• Blackcliff Pole: This weapon comes from Paimon’s Bargains. It offers a CRIT DMG substat and a passive that raises ATK after defeating enemies. The CRIT DMG substat is good. But, the passive lacks consistency in boss fights. It’s decent, not great.
• Lithic Spear: If you have a Liyue-centric team with Xiao, the Lithic Spear may perform well. Its passive scales with Liyue characters in your party for ATK% and CRIT Rate. However, it relies heavily on team composition.
• Favonius Lance: This spear provides Energy Recharge utility. It can assist with Xiao’s energy needs. Still, it has lower damage output than other options. Use it solely if you struggle with energy.
• White Tassel: This humble 3-star weapon serves as an early-game option for Xiao. Its substat is CRIT Rate, with a passive that boosts Normal Attack DMG. While Xiao prefers plunge attacks during bursts, CRIT Rate is still useful.

While these weapons work, they fall short compared to Primordial Jade Winged-Spear and Deathmatch. Focus on acquiring one of those top-tier options to maximize Xiao’s damage.

C. Talents: Unleashing Xiao’s Inner Demon

Talents define a character’s abilities in combat. For Xiao, leveling his talents wisely boosts his damage and playstyle. Let’s outline the priority list.

Talent Priority: Burst > Normal Attack > Elemental Skill (Focus Mostly on Burst and Normal Attack)

Prioritize these talents for leveling with Xiao:

1. Bane of All Evil (Elemental Burst): Level First (Aim for Level 7 Initially) – Xiao’s primary skill increases plunge damage and duration. Maxing this out enhances his burst potential. Focus on getting it to at least level 7 for better damage.
2. Normal Attack: Level Second – Although Xiao’s Elemental Burst changes Normal Attacks to plunges, leveling this talent increases multiplier damage for those plunges. Level this second after his burst.
3. Lemniscatic Wind Cycling (Elemental Skill): Level Last (or Not at All) – This skill helps with mobility but contributes little to damage in hypercarry setups. It’s fine to leave it at level 1 or level it last after increasing burst and Normal Attack.

In short, focus on maximizing plunge damage through burst and Normal Attack talents. His skill serves as utility.

D. Energy Recharge (ER): Fueling the Plunge Machine

Xiao’s Elemental Burst drives his damage. Like any engine, it requires fuel – Energy Recharge. Ensuring he has sufficient ER for consistent bursts is vital in maintaining damage uptime.

General Recommendation: 120% – 140% ER – The Sweet Spot for Burst Consistency

Aim for around 120% to 140% Energy Recharge. This ensures Xiao generally has his burst ready off cooldown. It allows for smooth rotations. However, ER needs may fluctuate based on team composition.

Team Composition Matters: ER Needs are Flexible

Xiao’s ER needs vary with team composition:

• Triple Anemo Teams (Xiao, Faruzan, Sucrose/Jean): Lower ER Needed (Around 120%) – Using multiple Anemo characters like Faruzan and Sucrose provides more Anemo particles, which help refuel Xiao’s burst. In triple Anemo teams, 120% ER usually suffices.
• Favonius Weapons on Teammates: Lower ER Needs – Equipping Favonius weapons to support characters can lower Xiao’s ER demands. Favonius weapons generate extra energy particles on CRIT hits, helping the entire team.
• C6 Faruzan: ER Requirements Reduce – C6 Faruzan significantly improves Xiao’s energy economy. Her constellation offers an energy refund after using her burst. With C6 Faruzan, Xiao’s ER needs lessen, allowing more focus on offensive stats.

Substats to the Rescue: ER% on Artifacts

If you need more ER, look for Energy Recharge% substats on artifacts. Substats on flower, feather, sands, goblet, and circlet help you reach your desired range without sacrificing offense. Treat ER% substats as valuable bonuses.

E. Stat Goals: Aiming for Anemo Perfection

We covered main stats and substats. Let’s outline the stat goals for Xiao into a checklist. Here are benchmarks for building your Vigilant Yaksha.

• CRIT Rate: Minimum 70% (Ideally Higher) – Consistency is vital for DPS characters; CRIT Rate sets the stage for sustained damage. A minimum of 70% CRIT Rate is essential for Xiao.
• CRIT DMG: Balance in a 1:2 Ratio with CRIT Rate (140%+ Ideally) – CRIT DMG enhances critical hit damage output. Balance it with CRIT Rate in approximately a 1:2 ratio. If at 70% CRIT Rate, aim for around 140% CRIT DMG or higher.
• ATK: As Much as Possible (After Meeting CRIT and ER Goals) – ATK benefits DPS characters immensely. Once you’ve addressed CRIT Rate, CRIT DMG, and Energy Recharge, stack ATK as much as possible.
• Energy Recharge: 120% – 140% (Adjust Based on Team) – As mentioned earlier, strive for 120% – 140% ER as a baseline, tailoring it based on team dynamics and energy generation.

F. Ascension: Reaching Level 90 – The Final Push

Leveling characters to 90 in Genshin Impact seems costly. But for hypercarry DPS characters like Xiao, it proves worthwhile.

Leveling Xiao to 90 gives a big boost to his stats. His ATK increase leads to greater damage output. Use ascension materials wisely to unlock his potential. Every point in base stats matters for peak performance.

II. Unveiling Xiao’s Identity: More Than Just a Mask and a Spear

Xiao’s character holds deep lore. Knowing his backstory enhances gameplay. It helps explain his serious personality and fighting style. Let’s explore the lore of the Vigilant Yaksha.

A. True Name: Jīnpéng (金鹏) – Alatus in the West

Xiao is not his real name. His true name is Jīnpéng (金鹏). The English version uses Alatus. Jīnpéng refers to a mythical Roc, a massive bird in Chinese myths. Alatus means “winged” in Latin, reflecting his Anemo element. The name “Xiao,” meaning “small,” hides his identity and past burdens.

B. Meaning of Name: Xiao (小) – The Little One Hiding a Big Burden

Xiao (小) means “small” in Chinese. This name reflects his effort to stay hidden from humans. It belies his true power and the heavy karmic burden of a Yaksha. The irony between his name and nature adds depth to his character.

C. Age and Status: Over 2,000 Years Old Adeptus – A Guardian of Liyue

Xiao is ancient, over 2,000 years old. He has seen civilizations in Liyue rise and fall. As an adeptus, he protects Liyue as a Vigilant Yaksha, fending off demonic threats. Known as Alatus, he prefers secrecy while fulfilling his duty.

D. Appearance: Teal Tones, Avian Pupils, and Markings of a Yaksha

Xiao’s striking appearance reflects his identity:

• Dark Hair with Teal Undertones: His medium-length hair has teal undertones, hinting at Anemo.
• Pale Skin, Golden Irises with Avian Pupils: This ethereal look emphasizes his adeptus nature and alludes to his mythical connections.
• Red Eyeshadow, Purple Diamond Marking, Green Tattoo: The red eyeshadow symbolizes his Yaksha status. The purple diamond marking is likely an adeptal symbol. The green tattoo connects to his true form.

E. Model: Medium Male – A Standard, Yet Distinctive Form

Xiao uses the medium male model common in Genshin Impact. Yet, his distinctive features make him easily recognizable among others using this model.

F. Element: Anemo (Wind) – The Swift and Elusive Element

Xiao controls the Anemo element, representing wind. This adds to his agile combat style, allowing him to manipulate wind currents boldly. Anemo signifies freedom, though Xiao’s past complicates this connection.

G. Illuminated Beast Form: A Hidden Form, Yet to Be Revealed

Xiao’s illuminated beast form remains hidden in the game, teased only in merchandise. It connects to powerful avian figures from myths. This mystery heightens his enigmatic persona.

H. Tattoo: Upside-Down Bird – A Reflection of His True Self

The green tattoo on his arm resembles an upside-down bird. This is linked to his illuminated beast form and the deity Garuda. The orientation may signify his fallen state and sacrifices as a Yaksha.

I. Mask: Exorcism Rituals – A Symbol of Duty and Pain

Xiao’s mask serves more than looks. Its design originates from exorcism rituals. The colors and solemn appearance reflect its power to ward off evil and channel strength. For Xiao, it suppresses karmic pain while boosting his power against demons.

III. Xiao in Gameplay: The Plunging Powerhouse Unleashed

With lore and build explored, we will now focus on Xiao’s gameplay. Understanding his combat style helps utilize him effectively.

A. Role: Hypercarry DPS – The Main Damage Dealer

Xiao operates as a hypercarry DPS. He is the primary damage dealer, needing support that boosts his output and durability. His plunge attacks during Elemental Burst deal significant Anemo damage. Build teams around him for maximum potential.

B. Playstyle: Acrobatic Plunging with Burst Dependency

Xiao’s combat style features:

• Elemental Burst Dependency: His damage relies on Bane of All Evil. During this burst, he enhances his jump height, allowing powerful AoE Anemo plunge attacks. This burst forms his damage core.
• Acrobatic Combat Style: Known for agility, Xiao employs dashes and plunge attacks. He is swift and mobile, maneuvering around battles to deliver powerful attacks from above.

C. Team Composition: Shielding and Battery Support

Maximize Xiao’s effectiveness with these team roles:

• Shielding: Zhongli – The Ultimate Shield Provider – Without protection, Xiao is vulnerable during plunge attacks. Strong shielder Zhongli is the best support. His shield is unmatched, offering protection while shredding resistance to amplify Xiao’s damage.
• Energy Battery: Faruzan (C6) – The Anemo Energy Goddess – C6 Faruzan significantly improves Xiao’s energy economy. She generates Anemo energy particles and buffs Anemo DMG, making her an excellent battery. Other Anemo characters like Sucrose also help, but none compare to C6 Faruzan.

D. Comparisons: Xiao vs. Wanderer – Anemo DPS Showdown

Xiao and Wanderer are both Anemo hypercarry DPS characters, leading to comparisons. They both excel but exhibit differences:

• Xiao: Plunge Attack Focus, AoE Damage – Using plunge attacks, Xiao shines in AoE combat, delivering steady damage against group enemies.
• Wanderer: Normal Attack Focus, More Mobile – More mobile than Xiao, Wanderer emphasizes Normal Attacks for flexible movement.
• Performance: Comparable, Xiao with a Slight Edge – Generally, their power levels align closely, with Xiao slightly outperforming in AoE scenarios. However, player preference and team composition affect optimal performance.

IV. Miscellaneous Xiao Facts: Beyond the Battlefield

Next, let’s explore fun facts about Xiao.

A. Xiao Lantern Materials: Crafting Wishes for the Lantern Rite

You can craft Xiao Lanterns during the Lantern Rite festival using these materials:

• Lantern Fiber
• Wick Material
• Plaustrite Shard
• 50 Mora

This lantern crafting represents the festive spirit of the event in Genshin Impact.

B. Xiao’s Favorite Food: Almond Tofu – A Taste of Nostalgia

Xiao loves Almond Tofu. This dish reminds him of a sound that eased his past pain. It provides a comforting reminder in his long, burdened life.

C. Voice Actor: Laila Berzins – Bringing Xiao to Life

Xiao’s English voice comes from Laila Berzins, a skilled voice actor known for her work.