Xiao – Genshin Impact Character Guide

Character Overview

Xiao is a 5-star Anemo character from Liyue who wields a Polearm. As a Anemo user, Xiao excels in teams that can take advantage of elemental reactions and synergies. Players who enjoy Xiao might also be interested in Jean, another powerful Anemo character. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to maximize Xiao’s potential in Genshin Impact.

Character Stats & Role

Best Weapons for Xiao

Xiao performs best with weapons that complement the Anemo element and Polearm weapon type. Here are the top recommendations:

5-Star Weapons (Premium Options)

• Staff of Homa – Top-tier option with excellent stats
• Engulfing Lightning – Top-tier option with excellent stats
• Primordial Jade Winged-Spear – Top-tier option with excellent stats
• Calamity Queller – Top-tier option with excellent stats

4-Star Weapons (Great Alternatives)

• The Catch – Solid choice for most players
• Dragon's Bane – Solid choice for most players
• Favonius Lance – Solid choice for most players
• Deathmatch – Solid choice for most players

F2P / Budget Option

The Catch (Event weapon) – Great Energy Recharge and CRIT

Best Artifacts for Xiao

Artifact selection is crucial for maximizing Xiao’s damage output and overall performance.

Primary Artifact Set

Viridescent Venerer (4pc) – Essential for Anemo supports, reduces enemy RES

Alternative Artifact Sets

Noblesse Oblige (4pc) or Maiden Beloved (4pc) for healers

Main Stats Priority

Sands: ATK% or EM | Goblet: Anemo DMG Bonus or EM | Circlet: CRIT Rate/DMG or EM

Substats Priority

Focus on: CRIT Rate > CRIT DMG > ATK% > Energy Recharge > Elemental Mastery (adjust based on character role)

Team Compositions

Xiao works well in various team compositions. Here are some of the best teams to maximize effectiveness:

Team Composition 1: Anemo Focus

• VV Support
• Main DPS
• Sub-DPS
• Healer

Team Composition 2: Elemental Reaction

• Swirl Team
• Elemental Enablers
• Off-field DPS
• Flex

Synergy Tips

• Pair Xiao with characters who can trigger Anemo reactions
• Use Anemo supports to group enemies and spread Anemo damage
• Include a healer or shielder for team survivability
• Consider Energy Recharge needs for smooth burst rotations

Pro Tip: Consider pairing Xiao with Sucrose for excellent Anemo synergy!

Talents & Constellations

Talent Priority

For most Xiao builds, prioritize talents in this order:

1. Elemental Skill – Primary damage source for most rotations
2. Elemental Burst – High damage potential with proper energy management
3. Normal Attack – Level last unless playing as main on-field DPS

Constellation Overview

C0 (Base) – Xiao 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: Xiao is strong at C0. Constellations are nice but not necessary for clearing all content.

Gameplay Tips

• Use Xiao’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 Xiao to level 90, you’ll need to farm specific materials from Liyue and various weekly bosses. Plan your resin usage efficiently!

Key Materials Needed

• Anemo Gemstones (Sliver, Fragment, Chunk, Gemstone)
• Regional Specialty from Liyue
• Common Enemy Drops
• Weekly Boss Materials (for talents)
• Talent Books from specific domains

How to Get Xiao

Xiao 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 Xiao!

Related Character Guides

Looking to build a strong team around Xiao? Check out these related character guides:

• Jean – 5-star Anemo Sword from Mondstadt
• Sucrose – 4-star Anemo Catalyst from Mondstadt
• Venti – 5-star Anemo Bow from Mondstadt

These characters synergize well with Xiao and can help you create powerful team compositions!