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Is the Black Sword Worth It for Ayato? A Comprehensive Guide

In short, the Black Sword is a worthwhile investment for Ayato, especially if you’re looking for a strong, accessible 4-star weapon. Its Crit Rate sub-stat significantly boosts Ayato’s damage output, and the 20% Normal Attack damage bonus synergizes perfectly with his Elemental Skill. While it’s not his absolute best-in-slot weapon, it provides excellent value and performance, particularly at higher refinements. However, a few factors should be considered before making your decision. This guide will delve deeper into the Black Sword’s strengths, weaknesses, and alternatives, empowering you to make an informed choice for your Ayato build.

Ayato’s Weapon Options: A Deep Dive

Ayato possesses a unique kit that focuses on dealing Hydro damage through his enhanced Normal Attacks during his Elemental Skill. Therefore, weapons that boost Normal Attack damage, Crit Rate, and overall ATK are highly effective. Understanding these options is crucial for determining the Black Sword’s place in Ayato’s arsenal.

The Top Tier: 5-Star Swords

Naturally, 5-star weapons often represent the pinnacle of performance. Here’s a look at the best options:

Haran Geppaku Futsu: This is Ayato’s signature weapon, and for good reason. Its Crit Rate stat, Elemental DMG Bonus, and Normal Attack damage bonus tailored to Elemental Skill usage make it the absolute best choice.
Mistsplitter Reforged: A close second, the Mistsplitter’s Crit DMG stat and stacking Elemental DMG Bonus are incredibly powerful, especially for maximizing Ayato’s Hydro damage.
Primordial Jade Cutter: The Jade Cutter’s massive Crit Rate stat and HP scaling (which indirectly boosts Ayato’s damage) makes it a versatile and potent option.

Excellent 4-Star Contenders

While 5-star weapons are desirable, they are often difficult to obtain. Thankfully, some 4-star options are surprisingly effective for Ayato:

The Black Sword (Battle Pass): As mentioned, the Black Sword offers a solid Crit Rate sub-stat and a 20% Normal Attack damage bonus. The healing effect can also be situationally useful, adding a layer of survivability.
Amenoma Kageuchi (Craftable): This craftable sword is a great F2P option. Its ATK% sub-stat is useful for increasing damage, but what makes this weapon good for Ayato is the passive that allows to generate Elemental Energy after using an Elemental Skill which will enable you to use your burst more often.
Lion’s Roar: Although not the best choice, this sword can increase damage by 20% against enemies affected by Pyro or Electro, making it usable in some team compositions.

Viable F2P Options

Iron Sting: This forgeable weapon is a decent F2P choice. Its Elemental Mastery sub-stat and the passive skill that increases all damage by 6-12 percent after the wielder uses an Elemental Skill can provide some useful buffs.

Why the Black Sword Shines on Ayato

The Black Sword’s appeal for Ayato stems from several key factors:

Crit Rate: Crit Rate is arguably the most important stat for maximizing damage output in Genshin Impact. The Black Sword provides a substantial amount of Crit Rate, reducing the need to rely on artifact substats for this crucial stat.
Normal Attack Damage Bonus: Ayato’s primary damage source during his Elemental Skill comes from his enhanced Normal Attacks. The Black Sword’s 20% Normal Attack damage bonus directly buffs this damage, leading to significant damage increases.
Accessibility: The Black Sword is obtainable through the Battle Pass, making it a guaranteed option for players willing to spend a small amount of money. This consistency contrasts with the uncertainty of weapon banners.

Potential Drawbacks

Despite its strengths, the Black Sword isn’t without its limitations:

Opportunity Cost: Obtaining the Black Sword requires purchasing the Battle Pass, which may not be appealing to all players.
Better Alternatives Exist: 5-star weapons like Haran Geppaku Futsu and Mistsplitter Reforged offer superior performance.
Healing is Minimal: While the healing effect can be helpful, it’s not a significant factor in the overall value of the weapon.

Refinement Ranks: Maximizing the Black Sword’s Potential

The Black Sword’s passive effect increases with refinement ranks. At R5, the Normal Attack damage bonus increases to 40%, making it a substantially more powerful weapon. The healing effect also becomes more potent, though it remains a secondary benefit.

Team Compositions and Playstyles

The Black Sword works well in various Ayato team compositions, particularly those that focus on maximizing his Normal Attack damage. Teams that enable Vaporize or Electro-Charged reactions can further enhance his damage output.

GamesLearningSociety.org: Further Exploration

To dive deeper into the mechanics of Genshin Impact and understand the game’s learning potential, explore resources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Understanding game mechanics can lead to better strategic decision-making, making choices like weapon selection more informed and effective.

Conclusion: Is the Black Sword a Good Fit?

Ultimately, the Black Sword is a strong and reliable weapon for Ayato. Its Crit Rate and Normal Attack damage bonus synergize perfectly with his kit, making it a valuable addition to your arsenal. While better options exist, the Black Sword’s accessibility and consistent performance make it an excellent choice, especially for players who don’t have access to 5-star weapons or other premium 4-star alternatives. Consider your budget, existing weapon options, and team compositions to determine if the Black Sword is the right choice for your Ayato.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Black Sword better than Amenoma Kageuchi for Ayato?

The Black Sword is generally better for Ayato due to its Crit Rate sub-stat and Normal Attack damage bonus. Amenoma Kageuchi can be a viable option if you are struggling to keep up with Ayato’s energy needs.

2. Is the Black Sword good for Ayaka?

The Black Sword is a decent option for Ayaka, providing Crit Rate and boosting Normal/Charged Attack damage. However, there are better options for Ayaka depending on your playstyle and team composition.

3. What is Ayato’s best F2P weapon?

The best F2P weapon for Ayato depends on your needs. The Amenoma Kageuchi is good if you need to focus on energy, but the Iron Sting can also be good to use when you want to focus on raw damage.

4. How do I make Ayato deal more damage?

To maximize Ayato’s damage, focus on Crit Rate, Crit Damage, ATK%, and Hydro DMG Bonus. Using his Burst before his Skill and pairing him with appropriate supports can further enhance his damage output.

5. What are the best supports for Ayato?

Excellent supports for Ayato include Yun Jin (Normal Attack buffs), Bennett (ATK buff and healing), Kazuha (Elemental DMG Bonus), and Fischl/Beidou (Electro-Charged reactions).

6. Is Ayato worth pulling in Genshin Impact?

Yes, Ayato is a strong Hydro DPS character and is worth pulling if you need a reliable and versatile damage dealer.

7. How important is Energy Recharge on Ayato?

Energy Recharge is important for Ayato, but it’s not as critical as other stats like Crit Rate and ATK%. Aim for around 120-140% Energy Recharge to ensure consistent Burst uptime.

8. What artifacts should I use on Ayato?

The Heart of Depth set is generally considered the best artifact set for Ayato. Gladiator’s Finale and Shimenawa’s Reminiscence are also viable options.

9. What talent should I prioritize leveling on Ayato?

Prioritize leveling Ayato’s Elemental Skill, as it is his primary source of damage. Then focus on his Elemental Burst. Leveling his Normal Attack is not necessary.

10. Does the Black Sword’s healing passive work on Ayato’s Skill?

Yes, the Black Sword’s healing passive works on Ayato’s Normal Attacks during his Elemental Skill, providing a small amount of healing with each hit.

11. Is the Black Sword worth buying from the Battle Pass?

If you need a good weapon for your DPS characters that rely on normal attacks such as Ayato, the black sword is worth buying from the battle pass due to the stats that it provides.

12. What stats should I look for on Ayato’s artifacts?

On Ayato’s artifacts, prioritize Crit Rate/Crit DMG, ATK%, Energy Recharge, and HP.

13. Can I use the Black Sword on other characters?

Yes, the Black Sword is a versatile weapon that can be used on other sword users who rely on Normal Attack damage, such as Keqing, Ayaka, and the Traveler.

14. Is the Cursed Sword good for Ayato?

The Cursed Sword (Amenoma Kageuchi) can be a viable F2P option for Ayato if you need additional Energy Recharge, but it does not provide the same damage potential as the Black Sword.

15. How does the Black Sword compare to other Battle Pass weapons?

The Black Sword is generally considered one of the best Battle Pass weapons due to its Crit Rate stat and Normal Attack damage bonus, making it a valuable choice for many DPS characters.

Is black sword worth it for Ayato?