In the much-anticipated *Genshin Impact* Version 5.5, slated for release on March 26, players will be introduced to two exciting new characters: Varesa and Iansan. Iansan, a 4-Star Electro Polearm wielder, and Varesa, a 5-Star Electro Catalyst user, both promise to bring fresh dynamics to the game. During the Version 5.5 livestream, Varesa’s unique kit caught everyone's attention, drawing comparisons to the popular character Xiao due to its distinctive playstyle.

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

Delving into Varesa’s kit, her Charged Attacks are both peculiar and engaging. She propels herself into the air, enabling a Plunging Attack while simultaneously generating Nightsoul Points. As a character hailing from Natlan, these Charged Attacks serve as the primary method for accumulating Nightsoul Points.

Varesa’s Elemental Skill, Riding the Night-Rainbow, adds another layer of excitement. She adopts a luchador pro wrestler persona, dashing forward to deal Electro DMG. Post-activation, her Normal Attacks transform into Plunging Attacks without stamina consumption—a feature that echoes Xiao's playstyle, especially when he's in his Elemental Burst state, Bane of All Evil, which boosts his jumping capability for consecutive Plunging Attacks.

Upon executing sufficient Plunging Attacks, Varesa can transition into a masked luchador state known as Fiery Passion, provided her Nightsoul Meter is full. This state amplifies her attacks and Burst, making the use of Plunging Attacks integral to her gameplay.

Related: Genshin Impact: Shuyu’s Baffling Beetle Battle Bowl Event Guide

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

The primary distinction between Xiao and Varesa's Plunging Attack mechanics is that Xiao depends on his Elemental Burst to perform successive Plunging Attacks, while Varesa can initiate them through her Charged Attacks. This difference not only allows her to access a more potent state but also sustains Plunging Attacks in that form.

If you're a fan of Xiao's playstyle and relish this type of gameplay, Varesa might be a worthwhile addition to your roster. Her independence from Elemental Burst for Plunging Attacks sets her apart significantly. Moreover, if you possess other characters from Natlan, Varesa synergizes well with them, enhancing the Nightsoul’s Blessing effect.

However, it's worth noting that Xianyun will share a banner with Varesa in *Genshin Impact* 5.5 (Phase I). As an excellent support for Plunging Attack users like Xiao, if you already own Xiao and lack Xianyun, she might be the better choice. Otherwise, Varesa offers a fresh yet familiar experience worth considering.

Genshin Impact is available to play now.