Xiao, the Vigilant Yaksha, is one of the most powerful and unique Anemo DPS characters in Genshin Impact. As an Adeptus sworn to protect Liyue, he wields his polearm with unmatched agility, leaping into battle with devastating plunging attacks. If you're considering pulling for him or optimizing your build, this guide dives deep into Xiao’s abilities, lore, and best team compositions to help you maximize his potential.

If you're looking to add Xiao to your roster, using Genshin Impact Top Up service that can help you stock up on Genesis Crystals and exchange them for Primogems. This makes it easier to get Intertwined Fates, increasing your chances of pulling the Vigilant Yaksha when his banner is available!

Also Read: Genshin Impact: Arlecchino’s Abilities, Lore & Best Teams

Who is Xiao? (Lore & Background)

Xiao, also known as the Conqueror of Demons, is one of the last remaining Yakshas, sworn to defend Liyue from dark forces. Originally named Alatus, he was enslaved by an ancient god and forced to commit countless atrocities before being freed by Rex Lapis (Morax). Now, he carries the burden of his past, battling lingering karmic debt while continuing to protect Liyue in the shadows.

Despite his cold and distant demeanor, Xiao is deeply loyal and harbors a silent duty to the people of Liyue. His connection to Lantern Rite, where the people honor fallen warriors, is particularly touching, as he rarely allows himself to be acknowledged or celebrated. Xiao’s story quests and interactions reveal a tragic yet noble character who stands alone, fighting battles no one else can see.

Xiao’s Abilities & Playstyle

Xiao is a hyper-aggressive Anemo DPS who excels in fast-paced, high-damage aerial combat, making him one of the most unique and thrilling characters to play. His signature playstyle revolves around using his Elemental Burst, which grants him enhanced jump height and converts all his attacks into Anemo damage, allowing him to unleash devastating plunging attacks with massive AoE potential. However, his kit comes with a significant drawback—while in his Burst state, he cannot generate energy, making him heavily reliant on Anemo battery supports to maintain uptime. To maximize his potential, players must carefully manage energy regeneration, healing, and shields, ensuring that Xiao can continue dominating the battlefield without interruption.

Normal & Charged Attack – Whirlwind Thrust

• Xiao performs swift polearm strikes, ending with a powerful thrust attack.
• His Charged Attack consumes stamina and delivers an upward thrust, but it’s rarely used in optimal gameplay.

Elemental Skill – Lemniscatic Wind Cycling

• Xiao dashes forward, dealing Anemo damage to all enemies in his path.
• This skill can be used twice in quick succession (or three times at higher constellations).
• Generates energy particles, which are crucial for charging his Burst.

Elemental Burst – Bane of All Evil

• Xiao dons the Yaksha’s Mask, enhancing his jump height and converting all his attacks into Anemo damage.
• His Plunging Attacks deal significantly increased AoE damage.
• While active, his Burst constantly drains his HP, making healing and shielding vital to sustain his damage output.

Passive Talents & Unique Mechanics

• Transcension: Gravity Defier – Reduces stamina consumption when climbing by 20%.
• Conqueror of Evil: Tamer of Demons – Increases Xiao’s damage output while under his Elemental Burst by 5% per second, stacking up to 25%.
• Dissolution Eon: Heaven Fall – Using Lemniscatic Wind Cycling increases the damage of the next use by 15%, stacking up to three times.

Also Read: How Many Characters Are in Genshin Impact? (March 2025)

Best Team Compositions for Xiao

Since Xiao’s Elemental Burst prevents energy regeneration, he heavily relies on battery supports to keep his Burst active as often as possible, as well as sustain-focused teammates to counteract his constant HP drain. Without the right support, he may struggle with energy issues and survivability, making team synergy crucial for maximizing his damage potential. Here are some of the best team compositions to complement his fast-paced, high-risk playstyle and ensure he remains a dominant force on the battlefield.

1. Xiao Hypercarry (Best for Maximum Damage Output)

• Xiao (Main DPS) – Anemo damage dealer relying on Plunging Attacks.
• Faruzan (Anemo Support) – Increases Xiao’s Anemo DMG and reduces enemy resistance.
• Bennett (Healer/Attack Buff) – Provides ATK boost and healing to offset HP drain.
• Zhongli (Shielder) – Grants a strong shield, allowing Xiao to plunge safely without interruption.

2. Double Anemo Battery (Energy Recharge Focused Team)

• Xiao (Main DPS) – Core damage dealer.
• Jean (Healer/Anemo Battery) – Provides healing and generates Anemo particles.
• Sucrose (Anemo Support) – Additional energy generation and crowd control.
• Zhongli (Shielder) – Protects Xiao and reduces enemy resistance.

3. Xiao + Double Geo (High Sustain & Shielding)

• Xiao (Main DPS) – Main Anemo damage dealer.
• Albedo (Geo Sub-DPS) – Provides off-field Geo damage.
• Zhongli (Shielder/Support) – Strong shield and Elemental RES reduction.
• Bennett (Attack Buff/Healer) – Heals Xiao and boosts ATK.

4. Xiao + Electro-Charged (For Off-Field Elemental Damage)

• Xiao (Main DPS) – Main Plunging DPS.
• Raiden Shogun (Energy Recharge & Burst DPS) – Helps with energy generation and deals Electro damage.
• Xingqiu (Hydro Sub-DPS) – Provides Hydro application for additional off-field damage.
• Bennett (Healer/Attack Buff) – Ensures Xiao stays alive.

Also Read: Genshin Impact Codes & How to Redeem Them (Feb 2025)

Final Words

Xiao is a high-risk, high-reward Anemo DPS who shines in the hands of players who love fast-paced, aerial combat. His ability to deal massive AoE damage with plunging attacks makes him one of the most satisfying characters to play. However, he requires careful team building due to his energy-hungry kit and HP-draining Burst.

If you enjoy high-mobility, aggressive DPS characters and don’t mind managing energy and sustain, Xiao is worth pulling for. His Yaksha lore, tragic backstory, and unique playstyle make him one of the most compelling characters in Genshin Impact. Soaring through the skies of Liyue or taking on hordes of enemies, Xiao remains a force to be reckoned with.

You're finished reading, but we have more informative content that you could learn from. In addition, we offer game-changing services that can elevate your gaming experience to the next level. What would you like to do next?