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Is Aqua Simulacra Worth Pulling? A Comprehensive Genshin Impact Guide

Yes, Aqua Simulacra is often worth pulling for in Genshin Impact, but with important caveats. Its high Crit DMG substat and universal damage boost make it a top-tier weapon for many bow users, most notably Yelan, for whom it is BiS (Best in Slot). However, its value depends heavily on your account’s specific needs, existing weapon arsenal, and willingness to invest in the weapon banner. It is crucial to consider your primogem budget and the other weapon featured on the banner.

Aqua Simulacra: The Staff of Homa of Bows

Aqua Simulacra has earned the moniker “Staff of Homa of Bows” for good reason. Just as Staff of Homa revolutionized polearm users, Aqua Simulacra offers a significant power boost to various bow characters. This versatility stems from its focus on Crit DMG and a passive ability that grants a 20% damage increase when near enemies, regardless of whether the wielder is on or off the field. This makes it beneficial for both main DPS and sub-DPS characters.

The Allure of Crit DMG and Damage Boost

The primary attraction of Aqua Simulacra is its massive 88.2% Crit DMG substat at maximum level. This greatly simplifies artifact building, particularly for characters like Yelan, who ascends with Crit Rate. Achieving a healthy Crit Ratio (1:2) becomes significantly easier, allowing players to focus on other desirable stats like HP and Energy Recharge.

Furthermore, the passive damage boost synergizes well with characters who consistently deal damage, regardless of their on-field presence. Whether it’s Fischl, Lyney, or Ganyu, many archers can leverage this passive to amplify their damage output.

Drawbacks and Considerations

Despite its undeniable strengths, Aqua Simulacra isn’t a universally perfect weapon.

Low Base ATK: Aqua Simulacra has a relatively low base ATK compared to other 5-star bows. While the Crit DMG substat and damage boost compensate for this, characters who heavily rely on ATK scaling might find other options more appealing.
Weapon Banner Gacha: Pulling on the weapon banner comes with inherent risks. There’s a chance of obtaining the other featured 5-star weapon, which might not be useful for your account. Planning your primogem spending is vital, and the pity system in the weapon banner is different from the character banner.
Alternative Options: Before wishing for Aqua Simulacra, assess your current weapon inventory. Powerful 4-star bows like The Stringless or Favonius Warbow can often provide comparable performance on certain characters, particularly those who require Energy Recharge.

Character Synergies: Who Benefits Most?

Aqua Simulacra shines on characters who:

Scale with HP or other stats instead of ATK: Characters like Yelan, who scale primarily with HP, benefit greatly from Aqua Simulacra’s damage boost without being hindered by its low base ATK.
Function as Sub-DPS: The weapon’s passive works effectively for sub-DPS characters like Fischl or Collei who deal off-field damage consistently.
Need Crit DMG: Any DPS character that needs Crit DMG will find it much easier to build with this weapon

Some examples of excellent Aqua Simulacra users include:

Yelan: Aqua Simulacra is her BiS weapon. It synergizes perfectly with her kit, enhancing both her damage and survivability.
Fischl: Aqua Simulacra can be a potent option for sub-DPS Fischl, offering a significant damage boost.
Lyney: The Crit DMG stat helps overcome his own Crit Rate requirements

FAQs: Unveiling the Nuances of Aqua Simulacra

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a more in-depth understanding of Aqua Simulacra:

1. Is Aqua Simulacra necessary for Yelan?

No, Aqua Simulacra isn’t strictly necessary for Yelan, but it is undoubtedly her best-in-slot (BiS) weapon. While she can function effectively with other bows, Aqua Simulacra maximizes her damage output and simplifies artifact optimization.

2. Is Aqua Simulacra good for Collei?

Yes, Aqua Simulacra is a great option for Collei. Her damage is boosted by the weapon, making her a more effective Sub-DPS. Other bows that focus on Energy Recharge or Elemental Mastery may be more suitable depending on the team composition.

3. Is Aqua Simulacra good for Fischl?

Yes, Aqua Simulacra is good for Fischl. It provides a significant damage boost as her primary scaling depends on damage. However, if you already have Skyward Harp, the difference may not be significant enough to warrant pulling Aqua Simulacra.

4. Is Aqua Simulacra good for Lyney?

Yes, Aqua Simulacra is a good option for Lyney, since he will primarily depend on Crit DMG and the stats will help him scale well.

5. Is Aqua Simulacra worth it if I don’t have Yelan?

Aqua Simulacra retains its value even without Yelan. Many other bow users can effectively utilize its Crit DMG substat and damage boost, making it a valuable addition to your weapon arsenal.

6. Should I pull for C1 Yelan or Aqua Simulacra?

This depends on your priorities. C1 Yelan provides a significant increase in Energy Recharge, allowing for more consistent Burst uptime. However, Aqua Simulacra offers a larger damage boost. If you struggle with Yelan’s Energy Recharge needs, C1 might be preferable. If her energy needs are met and damage is the main priority, Aqua Simulacra would be better. A good guide is available through the Games Learning Society website.

7. Is Aqua Simulacra worth buying?

The term “buying” in this context likely refers to spending primogems on the weapon banner. Whether it’s worth the primogem investment depends on your account’s needs and willingness to take the risks associated with the weapon banner.

8. Who is Aqua Simulacra good with (besides Yelan)?

As mentioned earlier, Aqua Simulacra is suitable for various DPS and sub-DPS bow characters, including Fischl, Ganyu, Childe, and Lyney. Any character that can benefit from Crit DMG and a general damage boost can effectively use this weapon.

9. Is Aqua Simulacra necessary for endgame content?

No, Aqua Simulacra isn’t necessary to clear Genshin Impact’s endgame content (Spiral Abyss). While it undoubtedly makes clearing the Abyss easier, skillful team composition, strategic gameplay, and well-built characters with alternative weapons can also achieve success.

10. What are some alternative weapons for Yelan if I don’t have Aqua Simulacra?

Good alternatives for Yelan include Favonius Warbow, Elegy for the End, The Stringless, and Sacrificial Bow. The best choice depends on your team composition and Yelan’s energy recharge needs.

11. Is Aqua Simulacra better than Polar Star?

This depends on the character and team composition. Polar Star offers higher base ATK and an ATK% boost, while Aqua Simulacra focuses on Crit DMG and a general damage increase. Polar Star is better for bow users that can consistently proc the stacks, while Aqua Simulacra is better for ease of use.

12. Does Aqua Simulacra work on characters that don’t scale with HP?

Yes, Aqua Simulacra works well on characters that don’t scale with HP because of the passive ability that grants 20% damage. While characters like Yelan who scale with HP get more value out of the weapon, the Crit DMG and damage boost benefit any bow user.

13. What is the best way to build Yelan with Aqua Simulacra?

Aim for a Crit Ratio of 1:2, prioritize HP, and ensure sufficient Energy Recharge (typically around 160-180%, depending on your team). A 4-piece Emblem of Severed Fate artifact set is generally recommended.

14. Is the Aqua Simulacra banner worth pulling on if I don’t want the other weapon?

Pulling on the weapon banner solely for Aqua Simulacra when you don’t desire the other featured weapon is generally not recommended. The weapon banner is inherently risky, and the odds of obtaining the specific weapon you want are not guaranteed. It’s better to wait for a rerun where Aqua Simulacra is paired with a more desirable weapon.

15. How does Aqua Simulacra compare to Thundering Pulse for Yelan?

Aqua Simulacra is almost universally better for Yelan because it has a Crit DMG and damage buff that works off-field and is always active.

Final Verdict: A Powerful Weapon with Caveats

Aqua Simulacra is undoubtedly a powerful weapon that can significantly enhance the performance of many Genshin Impact bow users, especially Yelan. However, its value depends on your account’s specific needs, existing weapon arsenal, and willingness to invest in the weapon banner. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before wishing to make an informed decision.

Is Aqua Simulacra worth pulling?