Alright, so you’ve just pulled Xianyun, the Anemo Catalyst support from Liyue, and now you’re wondering, “How do I build her?” Well, you’re in the right place. Xianyun is one of those versatile characters that can slot into different roles depending on what your team needs. Whether you want her as a healer, a debuffer, or a source of energy generation, she’s got you covered. Let’s dive into how to get the most out of this jack-of-all-trades.
Xianyun’s Playstyle and Role
First things first, let’s talk about how Xianyun fits into a team. Picture her as the ultimate multitasker: she can boost damage, heal your team, and mess with enemy resistances, all while swirling around like she owns the battlefield. She’s perfect for when you want a support that pulls double (or even triple) duty.
Here’s a quick breakdown of her roles:
- Plunge Attack Booster: Xianyun’s abilities make it easier for characters like Xiao to go full dive-bomb mode.
- Team Healer: Her Elemental Burst isn’t just for show—it’s your safety net when things get hairy.
- Debuffer: With the right artifacts, she can cut through enemy resistances like a hot knife through butter.
Top Artifact Sets for Xianyun
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty: artifacts. You know, those pesky things you farm week after week but never seem to get perfect stats on (we’ve all been there).
1. 4-piece Song of Days Past
Why You’d Love It: This set is a game-changer if you want Xianyun’s healing to be top-notch while giving your team a solid ATK boost. Think of it as a double win—you keep your team alive and help them dish out more damage.
When to Use It: If your playstyle leans on aggressive damage dealers who also appreciate a safety net, this set is for you. It lets you push the tempo without worrying too much about HP bars.
2. 4-piece Viridescent Venerer
Why It’s Awesome: This one’s a classic for Anemo characters, and for good reason. It boosts Swirl damage and shreds enemy resistance to the element Swirled. Yep, that means your DPS units can go from hitting like a truck to hitting like a freight train.
Best Used With: Teams that love their elemental reactions. Pair Xianyun with Pyro, Hydro, Cryo, or Electro DPS characters, and watch the numbers fly. This set is perfect for making bosses regret ever crossing your path.
3. 4-piece Noblesse Oblige
Why It Works: Sometimes, simple is best. This set boosts Xianyun’s Elemental Burst damage and gives your whole team an ATK buff whenever she uses it. It’s the perfect way to turn her Burst into a team-wide damage amplifier.
Great For: Compositions that need that little extra push to bring down enemies faster. If your team has a heavy hitter like Diluc or Ayaka, this set will make sure they shine even brighter.
Artifact Stats to Focus On:
- Sands: Go for ATK% or Energy Recharge%
- Goblet: ATK% is your friend
- Circlet: ATK% to squeeze out more value
Want my advice? Prioritize Energy Recharge if you find Xianyun’s Burst taking ages to come back. Otherwise, lean into ATK for bigger healing numbers.
Best Weapons for Xianyun
Now, let’s talk about her weapon. The right Catalyst can turn Xianyun from “pretty good” to “why is my damage suddenly so high?” Here’s what you should be looking for:
1. Crane’s Echoing Call
Why It Rocks: This Catalyst boosts Plunge attack damage and generates energy—two things that Xianyun excels at. With this weapon in hand, your team will be plunge-attacking like it’s going out of style.
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re running a team with Xiao or another character that benefits from plunge attacks, this is a no-brainer. Plus, the extra energy means her Burst will be ready when you need it most.
2. Thrilling Tales of Dragon Slayers
Classic Choice: Don’t underestimate this 3-star weapon. It’s cheap, cheerful, and hands out a whopping 48% ATK boost to whoever you swap in next.
When to Use It: Perfect for when you’ve got a hard-hitting DPS waiting in the wings. Pair Xianyun with someone like Hu Tao or Eula, and watch their damage spike after she passes them the buff.
3. Hakushin Ring
Best For: Teams with Electro characters. This Catalyst boosts Energy Recharge and shares an Elemental DMG bonus with Anemo and Electro teammates.
Why You Might Want It: If you’re playing around with a team comp that includes Raiden Shogun or Beidou, this weapon fits like a glove. It keeps Xianyun’s energy topped up and boosts everyone’s damage.
4. Favonius Codex
Why It’s Handy: High Energy Recharge makes this weapon great for keeping Xianyun’s Burst available. Just make sure she has enough Crit Rate to trigger the passive and generate energy particles.
Who It’s For: If you’re struggling to keep her Burst up consistently, Favonius Codex is your go-to. It’s practical, reliable, and gets the job done.
Honorable Mentions:
- Skyward Atlas: If you want raw ATK power, this 5-star weapon is solid.
- Eye of Perception: A decent 4-star choice for those looking for an easier-to-obtain option with some extra punch.
Building the Perfect Team
No matter how great Xianyun is, she’s only as strong as the team around her. Here are a few comps that’ll make her shine:
1. Plunge Damage Focus
Pair her up with Xiao or Wanderer to take full advantage of her Plunge attack buffs. Her support helps keep them healed and powered up, letting them do what they do best: slam enemies into the dirt.
2. Elemental Reaction Team
This is where the Viridescent Venerer set really pulls its weight. Partner Xianyun with a Pyro, Hydro, Cryo, or Electro DPS to trigger those sweet, sweet Swirl reactions.
Example Team: Raiden Shogun (DPS), Xianyun (support), Xingqiu (Hydro applicator), and Bennett (healing and ATK boost). The synergy is real, and you’ll be melting through enemies in no time.
3. Balanced Support Squad
Looking for a more general support role? Equip Xianyun with Noblesse Oblige and let her Burst do the talking. Pair her with hard-hitters like Ayaka or Diluc and watch your team’s damage soar.
Tips for Maximizing Xianyun’s Potential
Elemental Burst and Energy Management
One thing you’ll notice right away is that Xianyun’s Burst can make or break your rotations. Energy Recharge is key to keeping her abilities available, so don’t skimp on it. And if you’re ever in doubt, throw a few Favonius procs her way to keep the energy flowing.
Smart Rotations
To make the most of her, use her Elemental Skill first to set up Swirls and gather energy. Then drop her Burst to heal and buff before swapping to your main DPS. Simple, but effective.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, Xianyun is that support character you didn’t know you needed but can’t imagine playing without once you do. Whether she’s healing, buffing, or swirling her way to victory, she brings flexibility and power to any team. Give her the right build, and she’ll keep your party going strong through even the toughest fights.