Is the Sacrificial Sword Good in Genshin Impact? A Deep Dive
So, you’re looking at your Genshin Impact weapon inventory. Your gaze rests on the Sacrificial Sword. This four-star weapon shines with potential. You wonder, “Is it worth using?” You’ve come to the right place. Short answer: it’s not just good; it’s truly exceptional.
Sacrificial Sword: The Nitty-Gritty Details
First, let’s discuss what the Sacrificial Sword actually does. This weapon isn’t merely an aesthetic piece; it’s designed for performance. Its main feature is to reset your Elemental Skill cooldown.
Elemental Skill CD Reset: What Does It Mean?
Picture yourself in combat. You use your character’s Elemental Skill. You deal damage and create reactions. Now, you’re waiting for that cooldown. Here’s where the Sacrificial Sword shines. It offers a chance to instantly reset that cooldown after using your Elemental Skill.
This reset is crucial for many characters and team setups. Consider skills that apply elemental effects, generate energy, or teammates. Using them twice in quick succession is a huge advantage.
Stats and Source: What You Need to Know
Now, let’s explain how to obtain this powerful sword. Like many desirable items, the Sacrificial Sword comes from Wishes. You need to spend Primogems and hope for its drop. It’s a four-star weapon, so while not the rarest, it still relies on luck.
Stat-wise, it boosts Base Attack from 41 at Level 1 to 454 at Level 90. But the standout feature is the Energy Recharge boost. Starting at 13.3%, it scales to 61.3% at maximum level. This recharge is invaluable for characters who depend on their Elemental Burst or have energy issues.
As noted, the Sacrificial Sword is from the “Sacrificial Series.” The cooldown reset isn’t guaranteed; it activates by damaging an enemy with your Elemental Skill. Each hit can potentially trigger the reset.
Let’s repeat because it’s vital: you get the Sacrificial Sword from Wishes. Base Attack ranges from 41 to 454. Energy Recharge is from 13.3% to 61.3%. Understand? Great, we’ll move on.
Once more for clarity! Wishes, Base Attack (41-454), Energy Recharge (13.3%-61.3%). I’ll keep saying this until it sticks. These details are crucial!
One last reminder! Wishes, Base Attack (41-454), Energy Recharge (13.3%-61.3%). Now, let’s talk about which characters benefit most from this sword.
Oh, another tidbit: that Energy Recharge is particularly useful for characters like Kaeya. Extra energy boosts his Bursts. Still, even an increase in Base Attack is welcome. The range of 41 to 454 is significant.
Who Wields It Best? Character by Character Breakdown
Next, here comes the big question: who should use the Sacrificial Sword? It may not be the “best in slot” for everyone, but for certain characters, it takes their performance up a notch. Let’s look at some key players.
Xingqiu: The Rain Swordsman Supreme
Ah, Xingqiu! He’s the poster child for the Sacrificial Sword, and there’s a solid reason. His Elemental Skill, Guhua Sword: Fatal Rainscreen, is his kit’s backbone. It deals decent Hydro damage and generates Rain Swords around your active character. These provide damage reduction, healing, and Hydro for reactions.
The issue? Fatal Rainscreen has a lengthy cooldown. The solution? Sacrificial Sword! With its effect, Xingqiu can trigger Fatal Rainscreen twice in rapid succession. Double Rain Swords mean double Hydro application and increased energy generation. It’s a beautiful chain reaction.
Sacrificial Sword vs. Skyward Blade for Xingqiu: A Quick Duel
Some might say Skyward Blade is a better weapon for him. It’s a five-star sword and undeniably strong. It has a solid Base Attack, Energy Recharge boost, and increases Crit Rate and ATK SPD after using Elemental Burst.
Skyward Blade is an all-around solid choice. It offers good coverage and enhances Xingqiu’s offense with a Base Attack of 46. It’s versatile and dependable.
However, when it comes to maximizing Xingqiu’s capabilities, the Sacrificial Sword often shines brighter. The value of double Skill casts is unmatched. Skyward Blade is great, but the Sacrificial Sword unleashes Xingqiu’s full potential as a Hydro .
Energy Recharge Needs: Sacrificial Sword to the Rescue
Xingqiu is known for being energy-hungry. Without sufficient Energy Recharge, his Elemental Burst, Guhua Sword: Raincutter, struggles to stay up. The Sacrificial Sword offers a much-needed boost. Plus, generating more energy particles with double Skills eases energy challenges. It’s a fantastic cycle.
Nilou: Bloom Queen with a Sword
Nilou, the elegant dancer and Bloom team er, may not seem like a typical sword . But the Sacrificial Sword works surprisingly well for her.
Nilou’s scaling focuses on HP, not Attack. Thus, the sword’s lower Base Attack matters less to her. What she needs is Energy Recharge to maintain her Bloom-amplifying Elemental Burst, Dance of Abundance: Distant Dreams, Listening Spring.
The 61.3% Energy Recharge from the Sacrificial Sword significantly aids Nilou. It allows her to consistently use her Burst, crucial for maximizing Bloom damage in teams. While the Elemental Skill reset isn’t as powerful as with Xingqiu, it can still boost Hydro applications and energy generation.
Sources confirm the Sacrificial Sword fits Nilou perfectly. The reduction in ATK is minimal for her HP scaling, and the Energy Recharge is precisely what she needs. It’s an excellent match.
Ayaka: Burst Extraordinaire
Kamisato Ayaka, the Cryo princess, often wields powerful five-star swords like Mistsplitter Reforged. Yet, the Sacrificial Sword can still serve her well as a Burst .
Her Elemental Burst, Kamisato Art: Soumetsu, unleashes a torrent of Cryo blades doing significant damage. However, it needs 80 Energy to cast. The Sacrificial Sword can help with its Energy Recharge. Additionally, the Skill reset allows her to activate Kamisato Art: Hyouka, her Elemental Skill, twice, which means more Cryo particles and better Burst fueling.
As noted, for players using Ayaka as Burst , the Sacrificial Sword is invaluable. That 61.3% Energy Recharge is vital for accessing her powerful Burst more often. It’s about unleashing Cryo destruction multiple times.
Traveler: Adaptable and Energetic
The Traveler, our adaptable hero, can also benefit from the Sacrificial Sword. Regardless of the element chosen, the weapon increases both Base Attack and Energy Recharge.
Yes, the Sacrificial Sword is a solid option for the Traveler. It enhances both their offensive strength and energy capabilities. A good choice overall for our versatile protagonist.
Noelle: Shield Maiden with Energy Needs
Noelle, the steadfast knight, usually appears as a Geo DPS or shielder/healer. With her constellations active, especially Constellation 1 (I am invincible!), the Sacrificial Sword can perform better than expected.
Constellation 1 allows Noelle’s Breastplate to trigger healing on hit. This effect has a 100% chance, even against single enemies. With Sacrificial Sword, Breastplate can cast twice. It boosts shield uptime and energy generation. Energy Recharge increases Burst uptime for Sweeping Time.
Sacrificial Sword, or Sacrificial Greatsword, fits Noelle well. Especially with constellations, it boosts Energy Recharge and shield damage. Higher refinements enhance its power. Double shields and more energy are beneficial.
Kazuha: Anemo Crowd Control and Battery
Kaedehara Kazuha, the wandering samurai, excels at Anemo crowd control and Elemental DMG Bonus. He prefers weapons boosting Elemental Mastery or Crit. However, Sacrificial Sword can serve well for a -focused build.
Kazuha’s Elemental Skill, Chihayaburu, groups enemies effectively. With Sacrificial Sword, it can activate twice quickly. This enhances crowd control and generates more Anemo energy particles. Increased energy leads to more frequent Elemental Bursts, like Kazuha Slash.
Sacrificial Sword “increases Kazuha’s crowd control ability.” It “generates double the Energy.” More control, more energy, and more Bursts create an ideal scenario.
Kaeya: Cryo with Energy Needs
Kaeya, the charming cavalry captain, excels as a Cryo character. His Elemental Skill, Frostgnaw, has a short cooldown and generates Cryo particles. His Burst, Glacial Waltz, ensures reliable Cryo application.
Sacrificial Sword benefits Kaeya by boosting Energy Recharge. This ensures more consistent Burst use for Cryo reactions like Freeze and Superconduct. Although its Skill reset isn’t as impactful for him, it still provides extra energy and Cryo application.
Energy Recharge is “more beneficial to Kaeya.” Keeping Glacial Waltz active is vital for freezing enemies.
Diluc: Pyro DPS Focused on Skills
Diluc, the darknight hero, serves as a powerful Pyro DPS. His Elemental Skill, Searing Onslaught, delivers a three-hit Pyro attack central to his damage output. Although Diluc prefers weapons boosting Crit or ATK, Sacrificial Sword has niche applications.
Against enemies vulnerable to Pyro (like Hydro slimes), Sacrificial Sword’s Skill reset allows more frequent use of Searing Onslaught. This triggers more Vaporize or Melt reactions. Coupled with a Pyro DMG artifact set like Crimson Witch of Flames, it can yield strong reaction-based damage.
Sacrificial Sword “works great against react-able enemies.” Especially with a Crimson Witch of Flames set, this facilitates a reaction-focused Diluc gameplay.
Barbara: Healing and Hydro Abundance
Barbara, the shining idol, focuses on healing. Her Elemental Skill, Let the Show Begin♪, applies Hydro and heals over time. Her Burst provides significant burst healing.
Sacrificial Sword enhances Barbara with cooldown resets. While her Skill has a short cooldown already, resetting it facilitates more Hydro application for reactions. This can ensure consistent healing and enhance her role as a Hydro applicator.
Sacrificial Sword is “useful for cooldown resets” on Barbara. More Hydro application leads to improved healing – a significant upgrade.
Beidou: Electro Counter Specialist
Beidou, the uncrowned lord of the ocean, functions with powerful counter-attack skills. Her Elemental Skill, Tidecaller, provides significant counter-attacks. Though she prefers ATK or Crit boosting weapons, Sacrificial Sword offers unique benefits.
Its random Skill reset allows Beidou to use Tidecaller more often. More Tidecaller use leads to greater counter damage and Electro energy particle generation. Energy Recharge s her high-cost Elemental Burst, Stormbreaker.
Sacrificial Greatsword “can randomly skip cooldowns on hits.” Those random skips allow satisfying Tidecaller spam opportunities.
Sacrificial Sword vs. The Competition: Weapon Comparisons
How does Sacrificial Sword measure against other sword options? Let’s compare it with notable contenders.
Sacrificial Sword vs. Iron Sting: Elemental Mastery Comparison
Iron Sting is a craftable 4-Star sword focused on Elemental Mastery. It’s suitable for characters needing elemental reactions. Sacrificial Sword and Iron Sting serve different roles.
Sacrificial Sword excels in Energy Recharge and Skill cooldown manipulation. Iron Sting boosts Elemental Mastery and reaction damage. Characters like Kazuha might prefer Iron Sting for reaction maximization. For those needing Energy Recharge and Skill resets, Sacrificial Sword leads.
Sacrificial Sword vs. Prototype Rancour: Physical DPS Analysis
Prototype Rancour is another craftable 4-Star sword aimed at Physical DPS. Its secondary stat boosts Physical DMG while increasing ATK and DEF upon damage.
In physical DPS contexts, Prototype Rancour usually outperforms Sacrificial Sword. The buffs enhance damage output directly. Sacrificial Sword’s Energy Recharge and Skill reset aren’t as relevant to pure physical damage dealers. characters might still find Sacrificial Sword’s utility valuable.
Prototype Rancour “is better for physical dps.” Simple conclusion. If you build a physical damage sword , Prototype Rancour is ideal.
Sacrificial Sword vs. Skyward Blade: A Second Look
Previously mentioned, the debate between Sacrificial Sword and Skyward Blade specifically for Xingqiu deserves reiteration.
Skyward Blade is a high-end 5-Star sword with broad utility. It balances various combat aspects. However, for Xingqiu, Sacrificial Sword’s double Skill casts significantly enhance Hydro application and overall .
“Skyward Blade is Xingqiu’s top choice for an all-around weapon.” For maximizing capability, especially with Skill utility, Sacrificial Sword often outshines.
General Usefulness: More Than Just A Sword
The overall usefulness of Sacrificial Sword stems from its Energy Recharge reduction and Skill-enhancing capabilities.
Energy Recharge Needs Reduction: Efficiency Focused
Characters reliant on Elemental Bursts need substantial Energy Recharge to ensure consistent uptime. Sacrificial Sword alleviates this need. Its Energy Recharge stat and potential for double Skill casts cut artifact Energy Recharge stacking needs.
One Reddit stated that Sacrificial Sword is “great overall for Jean.” It significantly reduces her Energy Recharge requirements.
Reddit’s Consensus: Sacrificial Sword is Good
Genshin Impact fans on Reddit generally praise Sacrificial Sword. Discussions highlight its effectiveness for characters like Xingqiu and Jean benefiting from Skill resets and Energy Recharge. Many view it as a highly valuable 4-Star weapon suring some 5-Star options.
“Is Sacrificial Sword good?” is broad, but the answer is yes. Reddit discussions praise its effectiveness across various characters.
As for Energy Recharge, consider these ER requirements for Xingqiu:
Weapon C0–C5 ER Requirement C6 ER Requirement Favonius Sword 190–220% 150–180% Sacrificial Sword (R3+) 150–180% 130–150% Amenoma Kageuchi (R3) 190–230% 160–190% Other Weapons 220–260% 180–220% Sacrificial Sword (R3 or higher) significantly reduces Xingqiu’s Energy Recharge needs.
huge difference!
Beyond Sacrificial Sword: A Glimpse at Other Blades
While exploring Genshin Impact swords, let’s take a quick detour to highlight notable blades, for context and comparison.
The Rarest Sword: Dark Iron Sword – A Collector’s Dream (or Nightmare)
For collectors, chasing the Dark Iron Sword is essential. This 3-Star sword is deemed the rarest in Genshin Impact, due to its unique acquisition method.
The Dark Iron Sword was available from an NPC in Liyue Harbor, Chen the Sharp. It was a one-time opportunity. Missing it or using it for enhancement leaves you out of luck. It can’t be refined. Obtaining it again through normal gameplay is nearly impossible.
Indeed, the Dark Iron Sword is the “rarest sword in Genshin Impact.” Collectors treasure it. It serves as a trophy for those who acquired it. Its effect is meant for Electro characters, making it a unique piece of Genshin history.
Highest Base Damage: Aquila Favonia and Mistsplitter Reforged – ATK Powerhouses
Aquila Favonia and Mistsplitter Reforged dominate in raw Base Attack among swords. These 5-Star blades have the highest Base Attack stat, starting at 48 at Level 1.
Aquila Favonia gives a permanent 20% ATK bonus. It also provides healing and damage benefits. Mistsplitter Reforged, Ayaka’s weapon, enhances Elemental DMG Bonus and elemental damage amplification based on Burst usage.
Confirmed, “Aquila Favonia is a 5-star sword with the highest base attack alongside Mistsplitter Reforged.” These are the blades to choose when you want power.
Other Swords of Note: A Quick Tour
Let’s briefly mention other swords worth noting in Genshin Impact:
- Primordial Jade Cutter: Great for HP-scaling characters like Xingqiu. Offers Crit Rate and HP%, converting some HP into ATK.
- Freedom Sworn: Kazuha’s signature sword. Focuses on Elemental Mastery and boosts team Normal, Charged, Plunging Attack DMG, and ATK%.
- Key of Khaj-Nisut: Nilou’s weapon. Significantly boosts HP and Elemental Mastery, enhancing Bloom damage in her teams.
- Black Sword: A Battle 4-Star sword, often the optimal choice for Ayaka DPS, giving Crit Rate and Normal/Charged Attack DMG bonuses.
For Xingqiu, “everything Primordial Jade Cutter offers fits perfectly.” HP, Crit Rate, and HP-to-ATK – it’s a dream weapon.
Freedom Sworn is indeed “Kazuha’s signature weapon” and “best choice,” crafted for maximizing and damage.
Key of Khaj-Nisut is “Nilou’s weapon,” tailored to her HP-scaling Bloom-focused playstyle.
For Ayaka DPS, “Black Sword” often ranks as the “best 4-star weapon” if you’re open to investing in the Battle .
No sword guarantees a one-shot kill. But weapons like Mistsplitter Reforged, Primordial Jade Cutter, Freedom Sworn, Aquila Favonia, Skyward Blade, and Sacrificial Sword can produce high damage output in certain contexts.
Character-Specific Weapon Choices: Beyond Sacrificial Sword
While the Sacrificial Sword shines on certain characters, it is not always the best choice. Let’s examine some recommended weapons for specific characters mentioned in relation to Sacrificial Sword.
Weapon Recommendations for Specific Characters
- Tighnari: Hunter’s Path (signature), Elegy for the End, The Stringless, Windblume Ode.
- Jean: Aquila Favonia (signature), Favonius Sword (general energy ).
- Keqing: Lion’s Roar (Electro DPS), Wolf Fang, Black Sword, Iron Sting (reaction builds).
- Anemo Traveler: Skyward Blade (for Energy Recharge).
- Amber: Elegy for the End (), Skyward Harp, Amos’ Bow, The Stringless, Favonius Warbow (varied options based on build).
- Noelle: Redhorn Stonethresher (Geo DPS), Skyward Pride, The Unforged, Serpent Spine, Whiteblind (claymore options).
- Barbara: Prototype Malice (healing), Thrilling Tales of Dragon Slayers (), Sacrificial Fragments (less common than Sac Sword).
- Chasca: Song of Stillness (F2P craftable bow), other ATK-boosting bows.
For Tighnari, “Hunter’s Path” acts as his signature weapon. Options like “Elegy for the End,” “The Stringless,” and “Windblume Ode” focus on Elemental Mastery.
Jean benefits from “Aquila Favonia” as her best weapon, while “Favonius Sword” offers strong energy .
For Keqing, “Lion’s Roar” ranks high for Electro DPS. Meanwhile, “Wolf Fang” and “Black Sword” are great 4-Star picks.
Anemo Traveler finds value in “Skyward Blade” through Energy Recharge.
Amber’s choices vary by role but include “Elegy for the End,” “Skyward Harp,” “Amos’ Bow,” “The Stringless,” and “Favonius Warbow.”
Noelle’s top Geo DPS weapon is “Redhorn Stonethresher,” but other options exist like “Skyward Pride,” “The Unforged,” “Serpent Spine,” and “Whiteblind.”
For Barbara, “Prototype Malice” serves well for healing while “Thrilling Tales of Dragon Slayers” remains a timeless weapon. “Sacrificial Fragments” is rarer but can aid with Skill resets.
Chasca favors “Song of Stillness,” the F2P craftable bow, for its ATK boost.
Sacrificial Jade: The Polearm Cousin (Not a Sword, but Related)
Now let’s discuss Sacrificial Jade. While not a sword, it belongs to the “Sacrificial” weapon family and merits mention.
Sacrificial Jade: Battle Polearm
Sacrificial Jade is a 5-Star polearm from the Battle in Genshin Impact. This unique weapon features a ive effect that boosts HP and Elemental Mastery when off-field.
Viability: Kokomi and Neuvillette (and Others?)
Sacrificial Jade suits characters like Kokomi and Neuvillette, as they benefit from HP boosts and Elemental Mastery potential. Other characters may also find value depending on team setups.
“Sacrificial Jade is a 5-star weapon obtainable through the Battle .” It’s a unique option available through that system.
“It is viable for Kokomi or Neuvillette,” especially due to HP scaling and EM utility.
Is the Sacrificial Sword good in Genshin Impact? Absolutely. For characters like Xingqiu, it’s exceptional. Teams relying on Skill resets and Energy Recharge benefit greatly. While not the flashiest 5-Star weapon, its utility and influence on gameplay are clear. If you get one, you possess a robust sword in your collection.
