Genshin Impact Guide: Building Kinich

Since its debut with the Sumeru region, the Dendro element has carved out a significant place in Genshin Impact's meta. While Dendro has showcased impressive off-field applications through characters like Nahida and the newly introduced Emilie, it has lacked a wide array of main DPS options. This gap is being filled with the introduction of Kinich, the second 5-star character from Natlan. Kinich stands out as a Dendro DPS powerhouse, featuring a unique Nightsoul mechanic.

To fully harness Kinich’s potential, players should focus on optimizing his build, particularly his artifacts and weapon choices. Kinich’s versatility allows him to be effective with various setups, especially as new Natlan artifact sets become available.

Best Artifacts for Kinich

As an on-field DPS, Kinich’s main damage output comes from his Elemental Skill, which lets him attach to an enemy, dealing damage while rotating around them. This ability also regenerates Nightsoul points, culminating in a potent charged shot. Kinich’s best artifact set is the Obsidian Codex, which enhances his damage during the Nightsoul Blessing state and boosts his Crit Rate, making it ideal for maximizing his charged shot’s effectiveness.

For teams focusing on Dendro reactions, Gilded Dreams is a good alternative, especially when paired with Deepwood Memories to increase Dendro resistance shred. Unfinished Reverie is a solid choice for Burning-focused teams, and Marechaussee Hunter can be effective, particularly in teams featuring Furina. For general usage, using both 2-piece Deepwood Memories with 2-piece Golden Troupe offers a balanced in both improved Dendro damage and improved Elemental Skill damage.

In terms of stats, Kinich’s build is relatively straightforward. His ideal artifact setup includes:

- ATK% Sands

- Crit Rate/Damage Circlet

- Dendro DMG Bonus Goblet

Prioritize substats like Crit Rate and Crit DMG, followed by ATK% and Energy Recharge to ensure Kinich’s Elemental Burst is frequently available for additional Dendro application and off-field damage. In reaction-heavy compositions, Elemental Mastery can also be beneficial.

Best Weapons for Kinich

Kinich’s weapon choices vary based on player resources and investment levels. His signature weapon, Fang of the Mountain King, is the top choice, boosting both Elemental Skill and Burst damage. This weapon is highly synergistic with Kinich’s kit, as its stacks are maintained through Elemental Skill damage. It is especially efficient in Burning or Burgeon teams, though it’s not essential. With a Crit Rate secondary stat, this weapon complements a Crit DMG-focused build, particularly when paired with the Obsidian Codex.

For players without Kinich’s signature weapon, alternatives like Beacon of the Reed Sea and Verdict are viable. Both weapons offer Crit Rate and ATK bonuses, with Verdict providing additional Elemental Skill damage when used with a Geo character for Crystallize reactions. For a more accessible 4-star option, Serpent Spine (R5), available through the Battle Pass, is generally preferable to Talking Stick, offering higher and more consistent performance.

Free-to-play (F2P) players should consider the Earth Shaker, a forgeable claymore from Natlan. It performs well in Burning or Burgeon teams with a Pyro character but remains effective even without full refinement. Another strong 5-star option is Wolf’s Gravestone, which is easier to acquire from the standard banner. Ultimate Overlord’s Mega Magic Sword is also a good F2P choice for those who participated in the Roses and Muskets event during version 4.3.

With this comprehensive guide, you can optimize Kinich’s build and weaponry to excel in Genshin Impact, making the most out of his unique Nightsoul mechanics and Dendro abilities.