Is Zhongli an HP Scale? Understanding the Geo Archon’s Scaling Mechanics

Yes, Zhongli is indeed an HP (Health Points) scaling character in Genshin Impact. While his ultimate (Planet Befall) does deal Geo damage and can crit (making Attack and Crit stats relevant), a significant portion of his kit and overall effectiveness is directly tied to his Max HP. This includes his shield strength, and, most importantly, bonus damage to his Normal, Charged, and Plunging attacks as well as his Stone Stele damage. This makes building HP on him a crucial aspect of optimizing his performance in various roles, from shield support to a more offensive DPS-tank hybrid.

Decoding Zhongli’s Kit: HP Scaling in Action

Let’s break down how Zhongli’s HP scaling manifests within his abilities:

• Jade Shield: The Jade Shield, summoned through his Elemental Skill (Dominus Lapidis), boasts DMG Absorption scaling based on Zhongli’s Max HP. A higher HP stat directly translates to a stronger, more durable shield that can withstand significantly more damage. This is arguably the most important reason to prioritize HP on Zhongli.

• Normal/Charged/Plunging Attacks: Zhongli’s A4 passive talent grants a bonus damage modifier to his Normal, Charged, and Plunging Attacks based on his Max HP. These bonus damage numbers are increased by 1.39% of Zhongli’s Max HP. It might not sound like much, but these numbers add up over time, and, while Attack stat may increase this base number, HP will increase the overall damage output.

• Dominus Lapidis (Elemental Skill): The Stone Stele created by Zhongli’s Elemental Skill, along with its resonating pulses, also receives a damage bonus based on 1.9% of Zhongli’s Max HP. This resonance damage is a valuable part of Zhongli’s Geo application and overall damage output, especially in Geo-centered teams.

• Planet Befall (Elemental Burst): Zhongli’s iconic meteor strike, Planet Befall, has a damage bonus scaling of 33% of Zhongli’s Max HP. Though Attack and Crit stats are also crucial for the damage it does, this high percentage scaling on HP makes it a worthwhile stat to invest in when building him.

Building Zhongli: Balancing HP and Other Stats

While HP is crucial for Zhongli, it’s not the only stat to consider. Building him effectively requires a balance, and the specific balance depends on his role in your team.

• Shield Support: For a dedicated shield bot, prioritize HP above all else. A high HP stat ensures maximum shield durability, allowing your team to tank through substantial damage. Aim for 50k+ HP in this role. Artifact main stats should be HP%, HP%, HP% with HP% substats.

• Sub-DPS/Burst DPS: If you intend for Zhongli to deal significant damage with his Burst and Normal Attacks, you’ll need to balance HP with stats like Crit Rate, Crit Damage, and ATK%. The higher the Attack stat, the more that A4 passive talent increases damage. HP is still a priority, though not as overwhelmingly as in a shield-only build. Artifact main stats may include HP%, Geo DMG Bonus%, Crit Rate/Damage%.

• Weapon Choice: Weapons also play a crucial role. The Staff of Homa is widely considered the best-in-slot weapon for Zhongli due to its HP% secondary stat and passive effect that further boosts ATK based on HP. Other viable options include Black Tassel (for maximizing HP), Favonius Lance (for energy recharge), and Deathmatch (for Crit Rate).

Dispelling Misconceptions About Zhongli

It’s important to address some common misconceptions regarding Zhongli’s scaling:

• “Building ATK is always better for DPS”: This is a simplified view. While ATK contributes to his overall damage, neglecting HP drastically reduces his shield strength and the bonus damage from his A4 passive, rendering him less effective. A balanced approach is generally superior, or HP as priority.

• “Zhongli doesn’t need Crit stats”: This is untrue if you want to increase damage. His Burst deals significant Geo damage and can crit, making Crit Rate and Crit Damage valuable stats for maximizing his burst potential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Zhongli’s HP Scaling

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify Zhongli’s HP scaling and build considerations:

1. How much HP is enough for Zhongli?

Around 30k is a good starting point. For a dedicated shield bot, aim for 50k or higher. The specific amount depends on your team composition and the content you’re tackling.

2. Is 33k HP good for Zhongli?

Yes, 33k HP is a solid number for a well-rounded Zhongli. It provides a decent shield and respectable damage output from his A4 passive and Burst.

3. How does Zhongli HP scaling work for his Normal Attacks?

His Normal, Charged, and Plunging Attack DMG is increased by 1.39% of his Max HP, adding a flat damage bonus to each hit. This is further amplified by your Attack stat.

4. Why is Black Tassel good for Zhongli?

Black Tassel is a 3-star weapon with a HP% secondary stat, making it an excellent choice for maximizing Zhongli’s shield strength, especially early on or for dedicated shield builds.

5. Is Zhongli based on HP or ATK?

He’s primarily based on HP for his shield strength and bonus damage, but ATK, Crit Rate, and Crit Damage are important for optimizing his overall DPS.

6. Is Zhongli HP scaling for his shield?

Yes, absolutely. The Jade Shield’s DMG Absorption is directly tied to Zhongli’s Max HP. More HP equals a stronger shield.

7. Does Zhongli deal bonus damage based on HP?

Yes. His Normal, Charged, and Plunging Attacks, Stone Stele and Planet Befall all benefit from bonus damage scaled off of his Max HP.

8. How much does Zhongli’s Burst scale with HP?

Planet Befall’s DMG is increased by 33% of Zhongli’s Max HP.

9. What is the best HP weapon for Zhongli?

The Staff of Homa is generally considered the best due to its HP% secondary stat and ATK bonus based on HP.

10. Why is my Zhongli shield weak?

A weak shield is usually due to insufficient HP, low character level (affecting defense), or using a character with low base DEF to tank damage.

11. Is Zhongli a good shielder?

Yes, Zhongli is arguably the best shielder in the game. His Geo shields have 150% effectiveness against all types of damage, and his shield has near 100% uptime.

12. Can Zhongli shield break shields?

Yes, but not as effectively as characters with the right elemental matchups. It can slowly chip away at elemental shields but struggles against abyss mage shields.

13. Is Zhongli a DPS?

He can be built as a Sub-DPS or Burst DPS with the right investment, but his primary role is usually support, providing strong shields and crowd control with Petrify.

14. What are the best artifact sets for Zhongli?

Tenacity of the Millelith is a popular choice for shield support, while Archaic Petra can boost Geo damage. The Noblesse Oblige also can be good for more damage with the burst.

15. Is it worth building HP on Zhongli?

Yes, absolutely. Building HP on Zhongli significantly enhances his shield strength and contributes to his overall damage output, making him a more valuable asset to any team.

Understanding Zhongli’s HP scaling is key to unlocking his full potential. By carefully balancing HP with other relevant stats, you can tailor him to fit your team’s needs and maximize his impact on the battlefield. Remember to consider his role, weapon choice, and artifact sets to create a truly effective build.

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