Which Twin is Better in Genshin Impact: A Comprehensive Guide
The age-old question of whether to choose Aether or Lumine in Genshin Impact plagues new players and sparks debate within the community. The short answer is: neither is inherently “better.” The choice is primarily cosmetic, with minimal gameplay differences that often come down to player perception and preference. This article delves into the nuances of this decision, examining their stats, lore implications, and community perspectives, ensuring you make the most informed choice possible for your Teyvat adventure.
Aether vs. Lumine: Examining the Core Differences
At the start of your Genshin Impact journey, you’re presented with a pivotal decision: select Aether, the brother, or Lumine, the sister. Both twins share identical base stats, attack patterns, and elemental abilities. Their gear and progression are mirror images of each other. So, what truly sets them apart?
Aesthetic Preferences and Personal Connection
The most significant difference lies in their appearance. Aether presents as a male character, with a more angular design and typically portrayed in promotional material as the main protagonist. Lumine, on the other hand, is the female twin, often depicted as the leader of the Abyss Order, the game’s primary antagonists (depending on player choice). This visual distinction is the foundation for many players’ choices.
Beyond aesthetics, many players form a personal connection with their chosen Traveler based on their personalities. Aether is sometimes perceived as more stoic, while Lumine is seen as more expressive. These nuances, though subtle, can influence player immersion.
Charged Attack DPS: A Minor Discrepancy
While largely identical, some argue that Lumine possesses a slightly higher charged attack damage bonus compared to Aether. This, coupled with her attack speed, supposedly translates to a marginally higher DPS in specific scenarios. However, these differences are so minimal that they are often negligible in actual gameplay. They are not consistently observed across all testing and character builds.
Height and Sprint Speed: A Misconception
Another common misconception revolves around the height difference between the twins, suggesting Aether sprints faster due to his taller stature. However, this claim is generally unfounded. Genshin Impact’s movement mechanics don’t typically attribute noticeable speed advantages based on slight height variations between characters.
Lore and Narrative Implications: The Abyss Order
The lore surrounding Aether and Lumine is a crucial consideration, particularly as the game’s narrative unfolds. The twin not chosen as the player character becomes a central figure in the Abyss Order. The narrative implication is that the unchosen twin becomes disillusioned with humanity and chooses to oppose the divine principles governing Teyvat.
Whether you choose Aether or Lumine, the unchosen twin becomes the “evil” counterpart, leading the Abyss Order. This choice impacts your perception of the overarching storyline and your character’s motivations.
Canon Debate and MiHoYo’s Stance
The debate about a “canon” Traveler has raged within the Genshin Impact community. MiHoYo, the game’s developer, has explicitly stated that there is no canonical Traveler. The choice between Aether and Lumine is left entirely to the player’s discretion. While one twin might appear more frequently in promotional materials, this doesn’t indicate official canon status.
Team Composition and Synergies
Regardless of whether you choose Aether or Lumine, their gameplay potential relies on team composition and synergies. Both twins can effectively fill various roles, depending on their elemental attunement and the needs of your team.
Elemental Flexibility: Adaptability is Key
The Traveler’s ability to resonate with different elements is a crucial asset. Whether it’s Anemo, Geo, Electro, Dendro, or Hydro, the Traveler adapts to diverse combat situations. This adaptability is unaffected by whether you select Aether or Lumine.
The Final Verdict: Personal Preference Reigns Supreme
Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose Aether or Lumine comes down to personal preference. There’s no objectively “better” twin in Genshin Impact. Consider your aesthetic preferences, connection to the lore, and preferred playstyle. Choose the twin that resonates with you the most and embark on your unforgettable journey through Teyvat.
This is a game with an active community, and you can connect with people interested in game design and learning, such as those associated with the Games Learning Society. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are Aether and Lumine’s stats exactly the same?
Yes, Aether and Lumine have identical base stats. Any perceived differences are likely placebo effects or artifacts of specific build configurations.
2. Does the unchosen twin become evil?
Yes, the twin you don’t select becomes the leader or a key figure in the Abyss Order, effectively adopting the role of the “evil” counterpart.
3. Is there a canon Traveler in Genshin Impact?
MiHoYo has stated there is no canon Traveler. The choice between Aether and Lumine is entirely up to the player.
4. Does Aether sprint faster than Lumine?
No, there is no significant difference in sprint speed between Aether and Lumine due to height differences.
5. Does Lumine have higher charged attack damage?
Some players claim Lumine has a slightly higher charged attack damage bonus, but the difference is negligible and inconsistent.
6. How old are Aether and Lumine?
The game suggests that Aether and Lumine are over 500 years old, having traveled across many worlds before arriving in Teyvat.
7. Which twin is the Hydro Traveler better on?
The Hydro Traveler’s effectiveness is independent of whether you choose Aether or Lumine. Both twins have the same skill set.
8. Does my choice of Traveler affect the story?
The overall storyline remains consistent regardless of your choice. However, your perspective and personal connection to the narrative will vary.
9. Can I change my Traveler after choosing?
You cannot change your Traveler after making your initial selection at the start of the game. This is a permanent decision.
10. Are there romantic options for Aether or Lumine?
The game doesn’t offer explicit romance options. However, certain characters display hints of affection or interest in the Traveler, leading to fan-created “ships.”
11. Which is better for beginners in Genshin?
Both twins are equally suitable for beginners. Choose whichever twin appeals to you more aesthetically. The gameplay experience will be the same.
12. Is the Traveler a God?
The Traveler is considered a quasi-deity in some circles, depending on the world and beliefs. They possess unique abilities that set them apart from ordinary humans.
13. Is it possible the “evil” twin will eventually become good?
While currently leading the Abyss Order, the possibility remains for the “evil” twin to experience a change of heart as the game’s story progresses. Whether or not this change is due to brainwashing, or if it is organic, remains to be seen.
14. Can I play as both twins eventually?
Currently, you can only play as one twin, the one chosen at the beginning of the game. There is no mechanic that allows you to switch between the two at any point in the game.
15. How do I know which one is right for me?
Consider which character appeals to you visually, and how you envision your gameplay experience. Reading through forums and listening to others’ experiences may help you arrive at a decision.