Kaeya, the Cryo swordsman of Mondstadt, is a surprisingly versatile character in Genshin Impact. While often overlooked by newer players, a well-built Kaeya can be a powerful DPS or sub-DPS, excelling in both single-target and AoE damage. This guide will cover everything you need to know to build Kaeya effectively, maximizing his potential in your team composition.
Understanding Kaeya's Strengths and Weaknesses
Before diving into the specifics of building Kaeya, it's crucial to understand his strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Consistent Cryo Application: Kaeya's Normal Attacks and Elemental Skill apply Cryo consistently, making him ideal for triggering Melt and Freeze reactions.
- High Base Attack: Kaeya possesses a respectable base attack, making him a viable DPS option.
- Energy Recharge: His Elemental Burst, Glacial Waltz, offers good energy recharge, allowing for more frequent ultimate usage.
- Versatile Role: He can function as both a Main DPS or a Sub-DPS, offering flexibility in team building.
Weaknesses:
- Fragile: Kaeya's HP is relatively low compared to other characters, making him vulnerable to attacks.
- Energy Cost: His Elemental Burst has a relatively high energy cost if not supported by Energy Recharge artifacts.
- Single-Target Focus: While he has AoE potential, his damage output is generally more effective against single targets.
Best Artifacts for Kaeya
The optimal artifact set for Kaeya depends on his intended role:
For Main DPS Kaeya:
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4-Piece Blizzard Strayer: This set significantly boosts Cryo DMG, perfectly complementing Kaeya's abilities. The 2-piece bonus provides a Cryo DMG bonus, while the 4-piece bonus increases Crit Rate when hitting opponents affected by Cryo. This synergizes extremely well with his elemental skill for consistent Crit Rate.
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2-Piece Blizzard Strayer + 2-Piece Gladiator's Finale/Shimenawa's Reminiscence: This is a viable alternative if you lack a complete 4-piece Blizzard Strayer set. It provides a balance of Cryo DMG and ATK%.
For Sub-DPS Kaeya:
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4-Piece Noblesse Oblige: This set enhances his Elemental Burst DMG, boosting the overall team's damage output.
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4-Piece Emblem of Severed Fate: This is a very powerful option for boosting the damage of his elemental burst if he's consistently triggering it. This is especially useful in a team composition focused on burst damage.
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2-Piece Noblesse Oblige + 2-Piece ATK% Bonus: A solid alternative providing both ATK% and Elemental Burst DMG bonus.
Best Weapons for Kaeya
Weapon choice significantly impacts Kaeya's performance. Here are some top contenders:
- Blackcliff Longsword: A craftable weapon with excellent scaling and Crit DMG, making it an ideal choice for both Main DPS and Sub-DPS builds.
- Amenoma Kageuchi: Another excellent free-to-play option that provides energy recharge while also enhancing normal and charged attack DMG. This weapon is perfect for those playing a more consistent Normal Attack focused Kaeya.
- Prototype Rancour: A craftable weapon offering ATK% and Physical DMG%, offering decent damage if you don't have access to better options.
Best Team Compositions for Kaeya
Kaeya's effectiveness is amplified when paired with specific characters. Consider these team compositions:
- Freeze Team: Kaeya excels in Freeze teams, pairing well with Hydro characters like Xingqiu, Mona, or Kokomi to consistently freeze enemies, creating openings for increased damage.
- Melt Team: By combining Kaeya with Pyro characters like Xiangling or Yoimiya, you can trigger the Melt reaction, significantly boosting your damage output.
Talent Prioritization
Focus on leveling up Kaeya's talents in this order:
- Elemental Skill (Glacial Waltz): This is Kaeya's primary source of Cryo application and damage.
- Elemental Burst (Frostgnaw): A powerful Burst that deals significant AoE Cryo DMG.
- Normal Attack: While important, prioritize the Elemental Skill and Burst first.
Conclusion
Building Kaeya effectively requires understanding his strengths, weaknesses, and optimal artifact and weapon combinations. By following this guide, you can create a powerful Kaeya that contributes significantly to your Genshin Impact team's overall performance. Remember to experiment with different builds and team compositions to find what works best for your playstyle!
