Is Ayaka Worth Pulling in 2023? A Comprehensive Guide
Unequivocally, yes, Ayaka is absolutely worth pulling in Genshin Impact in 2023. Kamisato Ayaka remains one of the top-tier DPS characters in the game, renowned for her consistent Cryo application, impressive damage output, and overall team synergy. Whether you’re tackling the formidable Spiral Abyss or exploring the vast world of Teyvat, Ayaka can significantly enhance your team’s capabilities. Her kit is relatively straightforward to understand, but offers enough depth for optimized gameplay. Even with the introduction of new characters and elemental reactions, Ayaka’s position as a premier Cryo DPS hasn’t diminished. Let’s delve into why Ayaka remains a worthwhile investment and address some frequently asked questions.
Why Ayaka Remains a Top-Tier Choice
Consistent Cryo Application and High Damage
Ayaka’s alternate sprint allows her to apply Cryo to enemies upon reappearing, making her exceptional at enabling Freeze compositions. Her Elemental Burst, “Soumetsu,” is a swirling vortex of icy blades dealing massive AoE Cryo damage, capable of melting through enemy hordes. This burst alone is a major reason she’s considered one of the best DPS units.
Ease of Use and Accessibility
While some characters require intricate combos or specific team compositions to shine, Ayaka’s kit is relatively easy to pick up. Even at C0 (constellation zero), she’s a powerhouse. This makes her accessible to both veteran players and newcomers alike. Understanding her sprint and burst mechanics will unlock huge damage potential.
Synergistic Team Compositions
Ayaka thrives in Freeze teams, typically paired with Hydro applicators like Kokomi or Xingqiu, an Anemo support like Kazuha or Venti, and a Cryo battery/support such as Shenhe or Diona. These teams offer excellent crowd control, consistent damage, and survivability. The flexibility in team building means you can use Ayaka in different ways.
Strong Performance in Spiral Abyss
The Spiral Abyss is Genshin Impact’s endgame challenge, and Ayaka consistently performs well on its toughest floors. Her ability to deal massive damage in a short amount of time makes her ideal for clearing timed challenges. She can carry your team with enough investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Ayaka worth pulling if you already have Ganyu?
This depends on your playstyle and team needs. Both are excellent Cryo DPS characters. Ayaka excels in close-range combat and Freeze teams, while Ganyu is a more versatile character who can be played as both a main DPS (charged attacks) and a Sub-DPS (burst support). The article notes that if you have both at C0, many players prefer Ayaka for her more diverse playstyle.
2. Is C1 Ayaka worth it?
C1 Ayaka enhances her on-field DPS potential by reducing her Elemental Skill cooldown with Charged Attack hits. However, its value diminishes if she’s primarily used as a Sub-DPS. It’s a decent constellation, but not essential.
3. Should I pull for Ayaka or Kazuha?
This depends on your account. Kazuha is a fantastic Anemo support who buffs elemental damage and groups enemies. Ayaka is a strong DPS. If you lack a dedicated DPS, Ayaka might be the better choice. According to the original article, if there is a possibility for both, it’s better to pull for Ayaka because you will have no chance of pulling for her until the next rerun.
4. Should I get Xiao or Ayaka?
Ayaka is generally considered the better choice for team synergy and Spiral Abyss performance. Xiao, while a strong DPS in his own right, can be more demanding in terms of team composition and energy requirements. The article suggests that while Xiao is a strong individual unit, Ayaka brings more value as part of a team.
5. Should I pull Ayaka or Hu Tao?
Hu Tao excels in single-target damage, especially against bosses. Ayaka is stronger in multi-target situations due to her AoE burst and Freeze teams. Consider which type of content you struggle with more.
6. Is Ayaka weaker than Ganyu?
The article states that Ayaka is superior to Ganyu in both DPS and Freeze capabilities. It suggests Ayaka overshadows Ganyu in terms of damage, but it depends on team comp and enemy type.
7. Is it better to pull for Ayaka or Shenhe?
Ayaka is a DPS, while Shenhe is a support/buffer who specifically enhances Cryo damage. If you already have a strong DPS, Shenhe can greatly improve your Ayaka’s damage output. If you lack a reliable DPS, Ayaka should be your priority.
8. What are the cons of Ayaka?
A major con is that she relies heavily on her Elemental Burst for damage, requiring good Energy Recharge stats or a dedicated battery. Also, if enemies can’t be frozen, her effectiveness decreases.
9. Is Ayaka the best DPS in the game?
While there is no definitive “best DPS,” Ayaka consistently ranks among the top-tier DPS characters. Her potential damage output with her burst is incredibly high.
10. Should I get Venti or Ayaka?
Venti is a powerful Anemo support with crowd control capabilities. Ayaka is a DPS. If you need a strong DPS, go for Ayaka. If you need crowd control and elemental application, Venti is a great choice. They also synergize well.
11. Is Ayaka better or Venti?
They have different roles and aren’t directly comparable. Ayaka is a DPS, while Venti is a support. They can work well together in Freeze teams.
12. Is Ayaka too strong?
Ayaka is a powerful character, but not necessarily overpowered. Her effectiveness depends on team composition, enemy types, and player skill.
13. Is Ayaka’s signature weapon worth it?
While her signature weapon increases her damage, there are viable F2P options. Many players recommend using other swords if they are not able to pull her signature weapon.
14. Is Ayaka’s skill worth crowning?
Crowning her Elemental Burst is generally considered worthwhile due to its massive damage scaling. If you plan to heavily invest in Ayaka, crowning her burst is a good choice.
15. Should I pull for Ayaka or Raiden Shogun?
Both are excellent characters. Ayaka is a Cryo DPS who excels in Freeze teams, while Raiden Shogun is a versatile Electro character who can function as both a DPS and a battery. Raiden Shogun can fit in more teams due to her flexibility.
Team Compositions and Synergies
Ayaka shines the most in Freeze teams. A common and highly effective team composition is:
- Ayaka (Main DPS)
- Kokomi (Hydro Applicator/Healer)
- Kazuha (Anemo Support/Crowd Control)
- Shenhe (Cryo Support/Buffer)
Other viable teammates include:
- Xingqiu (Hydro Applicator)
- Mona (Hydro Applicator)
- Diona (Cryo Battery/Healer/Shield)
- Rosaria (Cryo Battery/Sub-DPS)
- Sucrose (Anemo Support/Crowd Control)
Final Verdict
Ayaka remains a top-tier DPS character in Genshin Impact in 2023. Her consistent Cryo application, high damage output, and synergistic team compositions make her a valuable asset to any player’s roster. Whether you’re a new player looking for a strong DPS or a veteran player seeking to optimize your Spiral Abyss clears, Ayaka is an excellent choice. Even with new characters being released regularly, Ayaka is still a strong DPS for a number of reasons.
Learn more about the mechanics and strategies behind effective gaming through resources like those offered by the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Understanding the underlying principles can help you appreciate characters like Ayaka even more.