The Definitive Guide to the Best Shield Characters in Genshin Impact 2022
Shields are an integral part of Genshin Impact’s gameplay mechanics. They provide temporary protection barriers that absorb damage, allowing players to withstand powerful attacks. In this comprehensive guide, we will showcase a tier list for the best shield characters in Genshin Impact for 2022. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this list will help you choose the most effective shield characters to enhance your gameplay.
Experience the Unmatched Power of Zhongli
Zhongli: The Unrivaled Shield Master
Zhongli, known for his immense popularity among players, is undisputedly the best shield user in Genshin Impact. Initially released in an underpowered state, miHoYo responded to players’ feedback and buffed Zhongli to become a force to be reckoned with. His durable shield can withstand all types of enemy attacks, making him an invaluable asset in any team composition.
With the highest base shield strength and the ability to absorb 150% of elemental and physical damage, Zhongli’s shield is remarkably powerful and versatile. Additionally, he possesses the unique ability to reduce the elemental resistance of nearby foes, greatly benefiting top DPS characters in the game. Furthermore, Zhongli’s Elemental Burst deals substantial AoE Geo damage and inflicts Petrify, making him a formidable damage dealer as well.
Harness the Strength of Noelle
Noelle: The Stalwart Shielder and Healer
Noelle, a Geo character, excels as both a shielder and a healer in Genshin Impact. With naturally high DEF and an elemental skill that protects and heals all characters, Noelle is the go-to choice for players seeking sustainability. Among all the 4-star shielders in the game, Noelle’s shield reigns supreme.
Noelle’s potential as a damage dealer is unlocked at C6, where her last constellation boosts her damage by 50% of DEF and extends the duration of her abilities by 10 seconds. This extraordinary constellation allows Noelle to compete with 5-star characters in terms of damage output.
Unleash the Power of Thoma
Thoma: The Unexpected Shield Specialist
Thoma may be considered the weakest polearm character in Genshin Impact due to his unique kit that focuses on shields. Despite lackluster damage scaling and long cooldowns, Thoma’s shielding ability should not be underestimated. His shield provides increased Pyro absorption, making him exceptionally effective against enemies and domains that rely on Pyro attacks.
While Thoma may not excel in other aspects, his shielding prowess shines brightly, allowing players to tackle Pyro-based challenges with ease.
Discover the Versatility of Xinyan
Xinyan: The Unexpected Shield Hero
Xinyan is a character of immense versatility in Genshin Impact. She can serve as a main DPS or a support character, complementing Pyro DPS characters effectively. Her Elemental Burst inflicts physical damage, making her shield an excellent choice for those seeking protection without relying solely on Pyro damage.
Despite being underestimated by many, Xinyan’s shield grows stronger when surrounded by opponents, making her an excellent choice for those in need of reliable shielding capabilities.
Experience the Utility of Diona
Diona: The Ultimate Support
Diona is widely regarded as one of the best support characters in Genshin Impact. In addition to dealing damage, she excels in various other areas, including healing, shielding, cleansing, and ally buffs. While her shield may be seen as just an added bonus to her already impressive kit, it still offers valuable protection.
Despite her power, Diona does have a few weaknesses. Her low base HP and less impactful Cryo Damage stat can be challenging to work with. However, her constellations (C1, C2, and C6) further enhance her support capabilities by buffing team damage.
Unleash the Potential of Beidou
Beidou: The Electrifying Shield Counter
Beidou stands out as one of the best Electro characters in Genshin Impact. She possesses the unique ability to counter enemies’ attacks and deal massive Electro damage. While her shield is not as powerful as other characters, it allows players to absorb damage and reflect it back upon release.
Beidou’s true potential lies in her ability to serve as a sub DPS character, applying Electro to trigger reactions for the main DPS to unleash devastating damage.
Explore the Potential of Constellation Shield Users
Kaeya and Yanfei: Unexpected Shield Masters
While not originally possessing shielding abilities, some Genshin Impact characters gain shielding capabilities through their constellations.
Kaeya
At C4, Kaeya gains an auto-trigger shield that forms when his health drops below 20%. This Cryo shield is especially effective against Cryo damage. However, due to its trigger requirement, the shield’s usefulness may be limited.
Yanfei
At C4, Yanfei automatically creates a shield upon releasing her Burst. Unlike Kaeya’s shield, Yanfei’s shield is more controllable and provides added durability to this otherwise squishy character.
Read more: 5 Tips For Beginners To Start Genshin Impact In 2022
Conclusion
Choosing the right shield characters in Genshin Impact can greatly enhance your overall gameplay experience. Whether you prefer the raw power of Zhongli, the versatility of Noelle and Xinyan, the utility of Diona, the unique abilities of Thoma and Beidou, or the unexpected shielding capabilities of Kaeya and Yanfei, each character brings something unique to the table. So, assemble your dream team and unleash their formidable shielding abilities as you dive into the world of Genshin Impact.