Neuvillette: Hydro Dragon Sovereign Analysis, Skills, and Best Builds

Introduction

Neuvillette has arrived in Teyvat, and the Hydro Archon may have just found a rival for popularity, and perhaps even power. The Iudex of Fontaine, a figure of immense respect and authority, is now a playable character in Genshin Impact, bringing with him a unique blend of grace, power, and intriguing lore. But is he worth your Primogems? This guide will provide an in-depth look at Neuvillette’s abilities, optimal builds, team compositions, and overall value as a playable character, giving you everything you need to know about this Hydro powerhouse. Many have speculated on his true nature, hinting at a connection to the Dragon Sovereigns. Let’s dive in and see what makes him tick.

Character Background and Lore

Who exactly is Neuvillette? Beyond being the Chief Justice of Fontaine, Neuvillette is a figure shrouded in mystery. He’s responsible for overseeing all legal proceedings within the Nation of Justice, a position that demands impartiality and unwavering commitment to the law. His calm demeanor and sharp intellect are evident in every interaction, making him a formidable presence in the courtroom and beyond. Neuvillette embodies the essence of Fontaine’s dedication to justice, yet there’s an underlying aura of ancient knowledge and power that hints at something more profound.

His relationship with the Hydro Archon, Focalors, is complex. While he serves as her chief administrator, a certain distance exists between them. Theories abound regarding Neuvillette’s true identity, with many believing he is connected to the Hydro Dragon Sovereign. The details remain obscured, but the hints are undeniable. Dialogue, design elements, and certain in-game lore point towards this connection, adding another layer of intrigue to his character.

Neuvillette’s personality is one of refined elegance and unwavering composure. He speaks with a measured tone, choosing his words carefully, and rarely betrays strong emotion. His appearance reflects this same sense of refinement, with flowing robes and a striking Hydro vision. This understated elegance, combined with his quiet strength, makes him a compelling and captivating character. Voicelines further hint at his personality and position, revealing insights to his beliefs.

Abilities and Gameplay

Neuvillette’s kit is what truly sets him apart. He’s a main damage dealer who relies on charged attacks and Hydro application to decimate his enemies. Let’s break down his abilities in detail:

Normal Attack: Ripple Iseal

Neuvillette’s normal attack consists of up to three attacks that deal Hydro damage. While these attacks are functional, they are not his primary source of damage. Neuvillette prefers to use his Charged Attack.

Charged Attack: Equitable Judgment

This is where Neuvillette truly shines. Holding the attack button enters a charging state. While charging, Neuvillette will gather Sourcewater Droplets within a certain AoE. When the charging is complete, if there are enough Sourcewater Droplets, Neuvillette will unleash a beam of continuous Hydro damage that scales with his maximum health. Players are able to move the beam while attacking, making it easy to target specific enemies. Using this charged attack consumes stamina if players don’t have enough Sourcewater Droplets, so be sure to grab some or generate some with your skill and burst!

Elemental Skill: O Tears, I Shall Repay

This skill deals AoE Hydro damage based on Neuvillette’s maximum health. Upon hitting enemies, it creates Sourcewater Droplets around the battlefield. These droplets are key to maximizing the effectiveness of his Charged Attack.

Elemental Burst: O Tide, I Have Returned

Neuvillette unleashes a massive wave of Hydro damage, also scaling with his maximum health. After the initial blast, two waterfalls will descend near him, creating even more Sourcewater Droplets. This makes it easy to continually use his Charged Attack. The area of effect on this ability is deceptively large.

Passive Talents

Neuvillette’s passive talents further enhance his abilities.

Heir to the Ancient Sea’s Authority

While Neuvillette is on the field, each Sourcewater Droplet he absorbs grants him increased Charged Attack damage. This further incentivizes picking up Sourcewater Droplets, maximizing his DPS.

Discipline of the Fontainian Court

For each party member that has a different elemental type, increases Neuvillette’s damage. This incentivizes the use of a diverse party.

Gather Like the Seafoam

Increases the party’s underwater movement speed. This makes exploration in Fontaine much faster and easier.

Neuvillette’s gameplay style revolves around managing his stamina, strategically using his skill and burst to generate Sourcewater Droplets, and unleashing powerful Charged Attacks. Effective positioning is crucial, as you’ll need to stay within range of the droplets to maximize their benefits. He rewards players who understand the rhythm of his abilities and can effectively control the battlefield.

Build Guide

To unlock Neuvillette’s full potential, you’ll need the right weapons and artifacts. Let’s examine the best options:

Weapons

Best in Slot (BiS): Tome of the Eternal Flow

This weapon is specifically designed for Neuvillette, providing a massive health boost and increasing charged attack damage. It’s the ideal choice for maximizing his DPS.

Alternative Gacha Options

Jadefall’s Splendor provides HP scaling and energy restoration. This weapon is a solid alternative to his BiS.

F2P Options: Prototype Amber

This craftable weapon offers a substantial health bonus and helps with energy regeneration, making it a viable option for players who don’t have access to premium weapons.

Artifacts

Best Sets: Marechaussee Hunter

This set provides a significant boost to normal and charged attack damage, and the passive effect helps with Crit Rate. This artifact set is perfect for increasing Neuvillette’s overall DPS.

Alternative Sets: Heart of Depth, 2pc Hydro Damage Bonus/2pc Attack Percent

If you don’t have a full set of Marechaussee Hunter artifacts, these sets can provide a decent damage boost in the interim.

Main Stats and Substats

Prioritize Crit Rate or Crit Damage, HP percentage, Hydro Damage Bonus, and Energy Recharge. The perfect artifacts will provide a balance of these stats, ensuring Neuvillette is both powerful and consistent.

Team Compositions

Neuvillette excels in team compositions that leverage Hydro reactions. Here are some of the most effective teams:

Neuvillette, Fischl, Kazuha, Zhongli: This team combines Neuvillette’s Hydro DPS with Fischl’s off-field Electro application, Kazuha’s elemental damage bonus, and Zhongli’s shielding and resistance shred. This team provides a balanced approach to offense and defense.

Neuvillette, Xiangling, Bennett, Kazuha: This team focuses on Vaporize reactions. Xiangling and Bennett provide Pyro application and attack buffs, respectively, while Kazuha further amplifies the damage.

Neuvillette, Nahida, Raiden Shogun, Zhongli: This team is all about Bloom and Hyperbloom. Nahida applies Dendro, Raiden Shogun triggers Hyperbloom with Electro, and Zhongli provides shielding and resistance shred.

Remember to experiment with different team compositions to find what works best for your playstyle and available characters. Budget options for supports could include Sucrose, Lisa, Collei, or the Traveler.

Pros and Cons

Before you decide to pull for Neuvillette, consider his strengths and weaknesses:

Pros

High damage potential: Neuvillette is capable of dealing substantial damage, making him a valuable asset in any team.

Relatively easy to build: His health scaling makes him easier to gear compared to characters who rely on attack.

Strong in various team compositions: He synergizes well with a variety of characters, allowing for flexible team building.

Unique and engaging gameplay style: His charged attack mechanic is both powerful and fun to use.

Cons

Can be stamina-dependent if not played correctly: Managing your stamina and utilizing Sourcewater Droplets efficiently is crucial.

Requires good positioning: Staying within range of the droplets can be challenging in chaotic combat situations.

May rely on specific team compositions for maximum effectiveness: While he’s versatile, he performs best in teams designed to enable Hydro reactions.

Is Neuvillette Worth Pulling?

So, the million-dollar question: is Neuvillette worth pulling? The answer depends on your current roster and priorities. If you need a reliable Hydro damage dealer who can easily fit in most teams, then Neuvillette is a solid choice. If you are on the fence and don’t care about meta teams, you might consider saving your Primogems.

Ultimately, the decision to pull for Neuvillette is a personal one. Consider your needs, preferences, and available resources before making a decision. His value is undeniable, but he may not be the right fit for everyone.

Conclusion

Neuvillette is a powerful and engaging character who brings a unique playstyle to Genshin Impact. His ability to deal consistent Hydro damage, combined with his versatility in team compositions, makes him a valuable asset for any player. By understanding his abilities, building him effectively, and pairing him with the right teammates, you can unlock his full potential and dominate the battlefield. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to Teyvat, Neuvillette is a character worth considering. Now, go forth and share your experiences with Neuvillette in the comments! What team compositions have you found to be the most effective? What are your thoughts on his playstyle? The world of Teyvat awaits!