Genshin Impact is releasing Durin as the next 5★ Pyro Sword user! But given the oversaturation from many years of development, should you pull for him or skip? Would it be better to prepare for Columbina instead? Here’s the full analysis so YOU can decide before Luna IV.
Who is Durin?
Since ancient times, Durin was also known as the Black Dragon. Previously laid waste to Mondstadt, he was introduced originally when Dragonspine released in Version 1.2. Now in Luna III, Durin‘s a playable character with unique mechanics! Akin to having a Light Form and Dark Form, this character deals damage through Essential Transmutation states of Purity and Darkness.
Durin‘s Hexerei: Secret Rite also wants other Hexerei allies to enable Elemental Burst effects. If you want this passive to work wonders, you’ll definitely be pulling a lot of characters to pair with Durin!
Durin’s Strengths
Durin has unique strengths that further enhance his role as a Pyro DPS, especially when played alongside a Hexerei-centered team. Here are his strengths:
Extremely Powerful Burst Pyro DPS
Durin‘s strongest asset is that he’s suitable for big bursts and nuking enemies. Any characters with fast rotations, or if you enjoy this kind of playstyle, will greatly appreciate having Durin on their team.
Two-Modes That Provide Damage Flexibility
If Durin uses his Elemental Skill or Burst, the two Dragon modes can provide different effects! For example, if Durin uses his Principle of Purity: As the Light Shifts,
- Summons Dragon of Purity (Light Mode) that deals AoE damage, or
- Summons Dragon of Darkness (Dark Mode) that deals Single-Target damage.
So if you’re planning to pick up Durin, he’ll hopefully be compatible with most of your existing teams!
Optimal in Hexerei Teams
Notably, Durin‘s Additional Passive Witch’s Eve Rite: Ode to Ascension has a greater effect the more Hexerei characters you have on the same team. While some of Durin‘s best recommendations may differ now, you’ll certainly enjoy pairing him with upcoming characters!
Best Builds for Durin in Genshin Impact
Durin’s Weaknesses
However, for all his strengths, Durin has some rather severe weaknesses that should be taken into account. Before you pull Durin, consider the following:
Big Damage Buffs, But Only With Hexerei Teammates
Without any Hexerei characters, Durin’s team loses a lot of potential damage. Depending on your account investment, teams with less than 4 Hexerei characters may perform worse than expected.
Better DPS Needs Better Artifacts
Just like any DPS character in Genshin Impact, Durin‘s performance depends on getting high CRIT Rate/CRIT DMG, ATK, and even Energy Regen. If you’re a new player, you may find Durin a little slow or difficult to build. Those Artifacts aren’t going to farm themselves!
Two-Mode Rotation Requires Adaptation
For maximum damage from Durin, better get accustomed to using both Dragon forms. Only focusing on one isn’t going to make him miraculously deal more damage.
This may be difficult at first, but with practice and time, anything is possible! Just keep at it, Traveler!
Best Durin Teams in Genshin Impact
Should I Pull Durin? Or Wait for Columbina?
For those who want Columbina, she’s probably releasing in Luna IV. But if you can’t decide who to pull more, consider the following! You should…
| Pull Durin if: | Skip & Wait for Columbina if: |
| You need a Pyro DPS immediately. | You like Columbina more. |
| You’re trying to put together a Hexerei team. | You don’t have any other Hexerei characters yet, or you already have enough Pyro DPS. |
| You enjoy a lot of burst-y and/or mode-swapping gameplay | You are hoarding Primogems for your true C6 love. |
Thankfully, Durin is ramping up to become an amazing and distinctive Pyro DPS who excels in all areas of combat. Especially when you can pair him with other Hexerei characters, such as Venti, Mona, and Albedo.
However, skipping is also perfectly safe and acceptable! There’s no shame in waiting for Columbina or trying to conserve Primogems.
So Traveler, what do you think? Ready to pull the Black Dragon of Dragonspine, or will you wait for another star to shine in Luna IV?