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Is Level 90 Xingqiu Worth It? A Deep Dive

In the ever-evolving world of Genshin Impact, resource management is crucial. One of the most common questions players face is whether to invest the significant resources required to level a character to 90. Specifically, is it worth pushing Xingqiu, the beloved Hydro support, all the way to the top?

The short answer is: generally, no, but it depends. While Xingqiu is undoubtedly one of the best 4-star characters in the game, the benefits of leveling him from 80/90 to 90/90 are marginal for most players. His primary value lies in his Hydro application and damage mitigation, which scale effectively even at level 80. The stat increases from those last ten levels, primarily ATK, HP, and DEF, offer minimal improvements to his core functionality. However, some specific team compositions or min-maxing goals might make it worthwhile. Let’s break it down further.

Xingqiu’s Strengths and Limitations

Xingqiu shines as an off-field Hydro applicator, enabling powerful reactions like Vaporize and Electro-Charged. His Elemental Skill, Guhua Sword: Fatal Rainscreen, provides damage reduction and minor healing, while his Elemental Burst, Guhua Sword: Raincutter, summons a barrage of Hydro swords that continuously apply Hydro to enemies.

His strengths include:

Consistent Hydro Application: Essential for Vaporize-centric teams.
Damage Reduction: Provides survivability for your main DPS.
Off-Field Damage: Contributes significant damage even when not actively on the field.
Energy Generation: Facilitates energy recharge for himself and the team, particularly with the Sacrificial Sword.

However, Xingqiu also has limitations:

Attack Scaling: His damage is primarily based on Attack, and the stat gains from 80 to 90 are less impactful compared to HP or DEF scaling characters.
Healing is Limited: While the damage reduction and small healing are useful, he is not a primary healer.
Energy Requirements: He needs sufficient Energy Recharge to consistently use his Burst.

When Leveling to 90 Might Be Worth Considering

There are specific scenarios where leveling Xingqiu to 90 could be justified:

Min-Maxing: If you are striving for the absolute maximum damage output in ideal conditions, the extra Attack from level 90 can contribute a small percentage increase. This is primarily relevant for players deeply invested in Spiral Abyss optimization.
Specific Team Compositions: If Xingqiu is a crucial part of a team where every bit of damage counts, such as a highly optimized Hu Tao Vaporize team, the extra stats could provide a tangible benefit.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, if you enjoy playing Xingqiu and want to invest in him fully, leveling him to 90 can be a satisfying goal. Genshin Impact is, after all, a game meant to be enjoyed!
Character Level-Based Reaction Damage: If you are using Xingqiu in a team focused on certain Transformative Reactions, like Electro-Charged, leveling him to 90 can be helpful, since Transformative Reaction damage scales with character level.

Alternatives to Leveling to 90

Before committing to level 90, consider alternative investments that might provide more significant returns:

Artifact Optimization: Farming for better artifacts with improved substats (Crit Rate, Crit Damage, Energy Recharge, ATK%) is often a more effective way to increase Xingqiu’s damage.
Talent Leveling: Prioritize leveling his Elemental Skill and Burst talents to maximize his Hydro application and damage output. Leveling talents to level 9/10 is often more worthwhile than going from level 80 to 90.
Weapon Refinement: If you use the Sacrificial Sword, refining it will further increase its effectiveness in generating energy.
Supporting Other Characters: Investing resources in leveling and equipping your main DPS or other support characters can often provide a greater overall team benefit.

Resource Considerations

Leveling a character to 90 is a significant investment. It requires:

1,673,400 Mora
Numerous Character EXP Materials (Hero’s Wit, Adventurer’s Experience, etc.)

These resources could be used to improve other aspects of your account, such as leveling other characters, upgrading weapons, or farming artifacts. Weigh the potential benefits against the opportunity cost before making the decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Xingqiu a must-have character in Genshin Impact?

Yes, Xingqiu is widely considered a must-have character due to his exceptional Hydro application, damage reduction, and overall versatility. He fits into many team compositions and significantly enhances their damage potential.

2. What are Xingqiu’s best constellations?

Xingqiu’s C2 and C6 are particularly valuable. C2 reduces Hydro RES of enemies hit by his Raincutter swords, while C6 significantly improves his energy generation. However, all of his constellations provide worthwhile benefits.

3. Is Xingqiu a good healer?

Xingqiu provides some healing through his Elemental Skill, but it is not his primary role. He is not a dedicated healer and should not be relied upon as the sole source of healing in most teams.

4. What artifacts should I use on Xingqiu?

The Emblem of Severed Fate set is generally considered Xingqiu’s best artifact set, providing increased Energy Recharge and Burst damage. Noblesse Oblige can be used if no other party members are using it.

5. What weapon is best for Xingqiu?

The Sacrificial Sword is generally considered the best weapon for Xingqiu, as it provides Energy Recharge and allows him to use his Elemental Skill twice, generating more energy for his Burst.

6. Is it worth pulling for Xingqiu constellations?

If you use Xingqiu frequently, pulling for his constellations can be worthwhile. C2 and C6 are particularly impactful, but even his earlier constellations provide useful benefits.

7. Should I prioritize Energy Recharge or ATK on Xingqiu?

Energy Recharge is the priority. Xingqiu needs sufficient Energy Recharge to consistently use his Burst. Aim for around 180-220% Energy Recharge, depending on your team composition and weapon.

8. How much Mora does it cost to level a character to 90 in Genshin Impact?

It costs 1,673,400 Mora to level a character from 1 to 90, not including the cost of ascension materials. Ascension costs an additional 420,000 Mora.

9. What is the ideal talent level for Xingqiu?

Prioritize leveling his Elemental Burst (Raincutter) to at least level 8 or 9. His Elemental Skill (Fatal Rainscreen) is also important and should be leveled accordingly. His Normal Attack talent can be ignored.

10. Is Xingqiu better than Yelan?

Xingqiu and Yelan are both excellent Hydro sub-DPS characters, but they have different strengths. Yelan generally deals more damage but XIngqiu is way more primo efficient.

11. How does character level affect reaction damage in Genshin Impact?

Transformative Reactions like Electro-Charged, Overload, and Swirl scale with character level. Therefore, leveling characters like Kazuha or Raiden Shogun to 90 can significantly increase their reaction damage.

12. Which characters benefit the most from being leveled to 90?

Characters that scale with HP, DEF, or whose primary role involves triggering reactions often benefit the most from being leveled to 90. Examples include Hu Tao, Yelan, Albedo, and characters used in Dendro teams.

13. Is Xingqiu better than Mona?

Xingqiu is generally considered a more reliable and versatile Hydro support than Mona. While Mona’s burst provides a damage bonus, Xingqiu’s consistent Hydro application and damage reduction make him a more valuable asset in many team compositions.

14. Can Xingqiu solo heal in Genshin Impact?

No, Xingqiu cannot solo heal. His healing is limited and only affects the active character. He is not a substitute for a dedicated healer.

15. Where can I find more information about Genshin Impact strategies and character builds?

Numerous online resources are available, including websites, forums, and YouTube channels dedicated to Genshin Impact. Also, consider exploring the wealth of knowledge available at the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org), which explores the educational and social dimensions of gaming.

Conclusion

While leveling Xingqiu to 90 might provide a slight damage increase, it is generally not the most efficient use of resources for most players. Prioritize artifact optimization, talent leveling, and investing in other characters to maximize your overall team strength. However, if you are a dedicated Xingqiu fan or striving for absolute min-maxing, leveling him to 90 can be a worthwhile personal goal.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Consider your resources, team composition, and personal preferences to make the best choice for your Genshin Impact experience.

Is it worth getting Xingqiu to 90?