Nilou – Genshin Impact Character Guide
★★★★★ Hydro • Sword • Sumeru Character Overview Nilou is a 5-star Hydro character from Sumeru who wields a Sword. As a Hydro user, Nilou excels in teams that can take advantage of elemental reactions and synergies. Players who enjoy Nilou might also be interested in Barbara, another powerful Hydro character. This comprehensive guide covers…
★★★★★ Hydro • Sword • Sumeru
Character Overview
Nilou is a 5-star Hydro character from Sumeru who wields a Sword. As a Hydro user, Nilou excels in teams that can take advantage of elemental reactions and synergies. Players who enjoy Nilou might also be interested in Barbara, another powerful Hydro character. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to maximize Nilou’s potential in Genshin Impact.
Character Stats & Role
- Element: Hydro
- Weapon Type: Sword
- Rarity: 5 Stars ★★★★★
- Region: Sumeru
- Best Role: Main DPS / Sub-DPS / Support (varies by build)
Best Weapons for Nilou
Nilou performs best with weapons that complement the Hydro element and Sword weapon type. Here are the top recommendations:
5-Star Weapons (Premium Options)
- Primordial Jade Cutter – Top-tier option with excellent stats
- Mistsplitter Reforged – Top-tier option with excellent stats
- Freedom-Sworn – Top-tier option with excellent stats
- Haran Geppaku Futsu – Top-tier option with excellent stats
4-Star Weapons (Great Alternatives)
- Amenoma Kageuchi – Solid choice for most players
- Iron Sting – Solid choice for most players
- Favonius Sword – Solid choice for most players
- Sacrificial Sword – Solid choice for most players
F2P / Budget Option
Harbinger of Dawn (3-star) – Excellent budget option with CRIT Rate
Best Artifacts for Nilou
Artifact selection is crucial for maximizing Nilou’s damage output and overall performance.
Primary Artifact Set
Heart of Depth (4pc) – Boosts Hydro DMG and Normal/Charged attacks
Alternative Artifact Sets
Noblesse Oblige (4pc) for support or Emblem of Severed Fate (4pc)
Main Stats Priority
Sands: ATK% or ER% | Goblet: Hydro DMG Bonus | Circlet: CRIT Rate/DMG
Substats Priority
Focus on: CRIT Rate > CRIT DMG > ATK% > Energy Recharge > Elemental Mastery (adjust based on character role)
Team Compositions
Nilou works well in various team compositions. Here are some of the best teams to maximize effectiveness:
Team Composition 1: Hydro Focus
- Main DPS
- Pyro/Electro Sub-DPS
- Anemo Support
- Healer/Shielder
Team Composition 2: Elemental Reaction
- Freeze Team
- Cryo DPS
- Hydro Enabler
- Anemo Support
Synergy Tips
• Pair Nilou with characters who can trigger Hydro reactions
• Use Anemo supports to group enemies and spread Hydro damage
• Include a healer or shielder for team survivability
• Consider Energy Recharge needs for smooth burst rotations
Pro Tip: Consider pairing Nilou with Mona for excellent Hydro synergy!
Talents & Constellations
Talent Priority
For most Nilou builds, prioritize talents in this order:
- Elemental Skill – Primary damage source for most rotations
- Elemental Burst – High damage potential with proper energy management
- Normal Attack – Level last unless playing as main on-field DPS
Constellation Overview
C0 (Base) – Nilou is perfectly viable at C0 with proper investment in artifacts and weapons.
C1 – First constellation typically improves energy generation or damage output.
C2 – Often provides significant damage increases or new mechanics.
C4 – Usually offers team-wide buffs or personal damage boosts.
C6 – Maximum constellation unlock; dramatically changes playstyle or damage ceiling.
Note: Nilou is strong at C0. Constellations are nice but not necessary for clearing all content.
Gameplay Tips
- Use Nilou’s Elemental Skill frequently to generate energy particles
- Time the Elemental Burst for maximum damage during enemy vulnerability windows
- Manage stamina carefully for charged attacks and dodging
- Position well to hit multiple enemies with AoE abilities
- Rotate between characters to maximize elemental reactions
Ascension Materials
To fully ascend Nilou to level 90, you’ll need to farm specific materials from Sumeru and various weekly bosses. Plan your resin usage efficiently!
Key Materials Needed
- Hydro Gemstones (Sliver, Fragment, Chunk, Gemstone)
- Regional Specialty from Sumeru
- Common Enemy Drops
- Weekly Boss Materials (for talents)
- Talent Books from specific domains
How to Get Nilou
Nilou is a 5-star character available through:
- Limited Character Banners – Featured during specific update versions
- Standard Banner – Available in the standard wish pool
- Character Event Wish – Check the current banner schedule
Always check the in-game notices for current and upcoming banners featuring Nilou!
Related Character Guides
Looking to build a strong team around Nilou? Check out these related character guides:
- Barbara – 4-star Hydro Catalyst from Mondstadt
- Mona – 5-star Hydro Catalyst from Mondstadt
- Xingqiu – 4-star Hydro Sword from Liyue
These characters synergize well with Nilou and can help you create powerful team compositions!