Genshin Impact 5.5: Varesa or Xiao - Who to Pull?

In *Genshin Impact* Version 5.5, set for release on March 26, players are eagerly anticipating the arrival of two new characters: Varesa and Iansan. Iansan is a 4-Star Electro Polearm user, while Varesa, a 5-Star Electro Catalyst, has captured the community's attention with her unique kit, drawing comparisons to Xiao's playstyle.

How Is Varesa’s Playstyle Similar to Xiao’s in Genshin Impact?

Varesa's kit offers an engaging and distinctive playstyle that echoes Xiao's. Her Charged Attacks are particularly noteworthy—she launches herself into the air, allowing for Plunging Attacks while generating Nightsoul Points, a mechanic central to her abilities as a character from Natlan. This Charged Attack is crucial for gathering Nightsoul Points, enhancing her combat effectiveness.

Varesa's Elemental Skill, Riding the Night-Rainbow, transforms her into a luchador pro wrestler, charging forward and inflicting Electro DMG. Following this, her Normal Attacks turn into Plunging Attacks without consuming stamina, a feature reminiscent of Xiao’s Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil, which enhances his jumping and allows consecutive Plunging Attacks. After enough Plunging Attacks, Varesa can enter a masked luchador state, Fiery Passion, when her Nightsoul Meter is full, boosting her attacks and Burst. This emphasizes the importance of Plunging Attacks in her gameplay.

Should You Stick to Xiao or Pull for Varesa in Genshin Impact?

The key distinction between Xiao and Varesa lies in their Plunging Attack mechanics. While Xiao depends on his Elemental Burst to execute consecutive Plunging Attacks, Varesa can initiate them with just her Charged Attacks. This flexibility not only enables her to enter a more potent state but also allows sustained Plunging Attacks, setting her apart from Xiao.

Image via HoYoverse

If you're a fan of Xiao's playstyle and enjoy this type of gameplay, Varesa could be a worthy addition to your roster. Her independence from her Elemental Burst for Plunging Attacks is a significant advantage. Additionally, if you have other characters from Natlan, Varesa synergizes well with them, leveraging the Nightsoul's Blessing mechanic.

However, it's worth noting that Xianyun, an excellent support for Plunging Attack characters like Xiao, will be available alongside Varesa in *Genshin Impact* 5.5 (Phase I). If you already own Xiao but not Xianyun, pulling for Xianyun might be more beneficial. Otherwise, Varesa offers a fresh yet familiar experience for those interested in exploring a similar yet distinct playstyle.

*Genshin Impact is available to play now.*