Can Genshin Characters Use Different Weapons? A Deep Dive into Genshin Impact’s Weapon System
The short answer is generally no. Most Genshin Impact characters are restricted to using only one specific weapon type throughout the game. However, there are nuances to this, particularly concerning the Traveler (Aether or Lumine) and certain character abilities. Let’s delve into the specifics of Genshin Impact’s weapon system to fully understand these mechanics.
Weapon Types in Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact features five distinct weapon types:
- Swords: Versatile weapons, often favoring speed and a balance of offense and defense.
- Claymores: Heavy weapons that deal significant damage and can break enemy shields effectively.
- Polearms: Weapons with long reach, capable of hitting multiple enemies at once with rapid attacks.
- Bows: Ranged weapons allowing for charged shots and targeting of specific enemy weaknesses.
- Catalysts: Magical weapons that enable characters to cast elemental spells.
Each character is designed to be proficient with only one of these weapon types. For example, Diluc can only use Claymores, while Barbara is limited to Catalysts.
The Exception: The Traveler
The Traveler is a notable exception to this rule. While the Traveler begins with the ability to wield swords, they can resonate with different elements by interacting with Statues of The Seven in different regions. This allows them to adopt different combat styles and, significantly, change their weapon type.
The article mentions “who is able to use 4 out of the 8 weapon types (excluding the shield)”. This is incorrect, as the Traveler can only use swords.
Character-Specific Weapon Skills
While characters are generally confined to their designated weapon type, some characters possess unique skills that temporarily alter their combat style. The prime example of this is Tartaglia (Childe), a Hydro bow user. His Elemental Skill allows him to switch to a pair of Hydro swords, temporarily changing his attack pattern and damage type. It is important to note that this is not changing his weapon to another type, but instead it is a temporary fighting style change.
Equipping and Switching Weapons
Equipping a weapon to a character is a straightforward process:
- Open the Character menu (Pause Menu > Character or press ‘C’ on PC).
- Select the character you want to equip.
- Click on the Weapons tab on the left side of the screen.
- Click Switch in the bottom right corner.
- Choose a weapon of the correct type from your inventory.
You can only equip weapons that are compatible with the character’s inherent weapon type.
Weapon Acquisition and Management
Weapons are primarily acquired through the Gacha system (Wishes), but some can be obtained through quests, events, or crafting. Managing your weapon inventory is crucial. Excess weapons can be:
- Used as enhancement material: Fusing weaker weapons into a stronger one to increase its level.
- Refined: Using duplicate copies of the same weapon to increase its refinement rank, boosting its passive abilities.
Always be mindful of your weapon inventory limit to avoid being unable to collect new items. The article mentions “Players can fuse the duplicate weapon into another one to make it stronger. This will break down the weapon and the materials within will go into the second weapon”. This is incorrect, as the duplicates are not broken down into materials, but instead directly used for refinement.
Character and Weapon Synergy
Certain weapons are designed to complement specific characters, often referred to as signature weapons. While any character can equip a weapon of the correct type, signature weapons usually amplify a character’s strengths and synergize with their unique abilities. Examples include:
- Wolf’s Gravestone for Diluc (Claymore)
- Amos’ Bow for Ganyu (Bow)
- Staff of Homa for Hu Tao (Polearm)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I equip any weapon I want on any character?
No, most characters are restricted to a single weapon type. Only weapons of that specific type can be equipped. The traveler is able to use swords when interacting with a statue to resonate with an element.
2. Can the Traveler use all weapon types?
No, the Traveler can only use swords, regardless of the element they are attuned to.
3. What happens if I try to equip the wrong weapon type?
The game will prevent you from equipping the weapon. A notification will usually appear indicating the incompatibility.
4. Are some weapons better than others for certain characters?
Yes, weapon stats and passive abilities can greatly enhance a character’s performance. Signature weapons are specifically designed to synergize with a character’s kit.
5. Can I trade weapons with other players?
No, Genshin Impact does not allow weapon trading between players.
6. What should I do with duplicate weapons?
Duplicate weapons can be used to refine the original weapon, increasing its refinement rank and enhancing its passive abilities.
7. Do weapons have different rarities?
Yes, weapons have different rarities, ranging from 1-star to 5-star. Higher rarity weapons generally have better stats and abilities.
8. Can I upgrade my weapons?
Yes, weapons can be leveled up using enhancement ore and other weapons as fodder.
9. What is the maximum level a weapon can reach?
The maximum level depends on the weapon’s rarity and its ascension level.
10. How do I get more weapons?
Weapons are primarily obtained through the Wish system (Gacha), but some can be earned through quests, events, or crafted at the blacksmith.
11. Do weapon stats transfer if I switch weapons on a character?
Yes, when you switch weapons, the character’s stats will change accordingly based on the new weapon’s stats and abilities.
12. What is weapon pity?
Weapon pity is a mechanic within the Wish system that guarantees a 5-star weapon after a certain number of wishes. The Standard and Character banners do not share pity with the Weapon banner.
13. Can weapons break in Genshin Impact?
No, weapons do not break or degrade with use.
14. Does weapon level affect refinement?
No, the level of the weapon being used for refinement does not matter. The refinement rank only depends on the number of duplicates used.
15. What are the best weapons for the Traveler?
The best weapon for the Traveler depends on the chosen element and build. For the Anemo Traveler, the Skyward Blade is a solid choice. The article mentions “Skyward Blade boosts their movement and attack speeds by 10%, along with their normal and charged attack damage on a sliding scale of 20-40% based on the weapon’s level, for 12 seconds after the burst is activated”.
The Importance of Understanding Weapon Mechanics
A thorough understanding of Genshin Impact’s weapon system is critical for effective team building and character optimization. Choosing the right weapon for each character, leveling them up, and refining them are all crucial steps in maximizing your combat potential. Experimenting with different weapon combinations and researching character-specific builds will significantly improve your gameplay experience.
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By mastering the intricacies of Genshin Impact’s weapon system, you can unleash the full potential of your characters and conquer even the most challenging content.