The Genshin Impact Luna III Phase II banners, running from December 23, 2025, to January 13, 2026, bring back two powerful Natlan characters: Varesa, a 5-star Electro Catalyst DPS, and Xilonen, a 5-star Geo Polearm support. With Primogems often in short supply and future banners like Columbina’s looming in Version 6.3, deciding where to invest your pulls is crucial. 

Varesa: The Electro Plunge DPS

Varesa

Pros

  • Top-Tier DPS: Varesa competes with elite Electro carries like Clorinde and Raiden, excelling in Overload and Aggravate teams with high Plunge Attack multipliers. Her damage rivals meta DPS units even without reaction-heavy setups.
  • Versatile Team Comps: She shines in multiple setups:
    • Overload: Pair with Chevreuse (C6 preferred), Iansan, and Mavuika for explosive AoE damage.
    • Aggravate: Combine with Dendro units like Nahida or Baizhu to boost Plunge damage via reactions.
    • Electro-Charged: Team with Hydro characters like Fennina or Ineffa for consistent AoE procs.
  • F2P-Friendly: Varesa performs well at C0 and doesn’t require her signature weapon, Vivid Notions. Alternatives like Lost Prayer to the Sacred Winds, The Widsith, or Kagura’s Verity are effective. Her banner also features accessible 4-star supports like Iansan and Chevreuse.
  • Exploration Utility: Her Elemental Skill’s high movement speed and ability to ascend terrain make her excellent for navigating Natlan’s volcanic landscapes.
  • Fun Playstyle: Varesa’s Plunge-focused combat, with cartoony animations and fluid rotations, offers a dynamic and visually appealing experience.

Cons

  • Team Dependency: Varesa’s full potential requires specific supports like Iansan, Chevreuse, or Xianyun (C2 or higher for Plunge teams). Without these, her damage may lag behind other Electro DPS units.
  • Targeting Issues: Her Plunge Attacks can be inconsistent in multi-enemy scenarios, especially against bosses with adds, leading to clunky gameplay.
  • Competition: If you already own meta DPS units like Mavuika, Arlecchino, or Neuvillette, Varesa’s incremental value may be limited unless you love her playstyle.

Pull Value

Varesa is a fantastic choice if you lack a strong Electro DPS or enjoy her unique Plunge-focused playstyle. She’s especially appealing for F2P or early-game players, as her banner includes synergistic 4-stars (Iansan, Chevreuse, Gaming) and she doesn’t demand heavy investment. However, if you have meta DPS units or lack her key supports, her value may be reduced.

Xilonen: The Versatile Geo Support

Xilonen Genshin Impact

Pros

  • Universal Support: Xilonen fits into nearly any team, boosting DPS units like Mavuika, Neuvillette, Mualani, Arlecchino, and Navia. Her RES shred and buffs rival top supports like Kazuha.
  • Easy to Build: She scales on DEF and Energy Recharge, with Crit Rate optional if using Favonius Sword. The Scroll of the Hero of Cinder City artifact set further enhances team DPS.
  • Exploration Utility: Her Elemental Skill’s vertical mobility and fast movement make her ideal for Natlan’s terrain.
  • Survivability: Her shields and healing (via Burst) allow teams to drop dedicated healers, especially in Furina comps, increasing overall damage output.
  • Natlan Synergy: Xilonen is tailored for Natlan characters, forming the core of some of the game’s strongest teams.

Cons

  • No Crowd Control: Unlike Kazuha, Xilonen lacks crowd-control abilities, which may be a drawback in AoE scenarios.
  • Limited Elemental Reactions: Geo doesn’t react with Anemo or Dendro, restricting her use in Swirl or Bloom teams.
  • Future Competition: Leaks suggest Columbina (Version 6.3) may outshine Xilonen in Lunar-Reaction teams, potentially reducing her long-term value for some players.

Pull Value

Xilonen is a near-universal support who elevates almost any team, making her a safe and future-proof pull. Her ease of use, low build requirements, and synergy with Natlan and non-Natlan DPS units make her a top priority, especially if you lack a versatile support. However, if you’re focused on Anemo/Dendro teams or saving for Columbina, you might consider skipping.

Who Should You Pull For?

Pull for Varesa if:

  • You need a strong Electro Main DPS and lack units like Clorinde or Raiden.
  • You own or can pull her supports (Iansan, Chevreuse, Xianyun).
  • You enjoy her Plunge-focused playstyle and want a fun, mobile character for combat and exploration.
  • You’re a new or F2P player looking for a reliable DPS with accessible team options.

Pull for Xilonen if:

  • You want a versatile support to boost a wide range of DPS units, especially Natlan characters.
  • You value survivability and ease of use in team-building.
  • You lack a strong Geo support or need a healer for Furina teams.
  • You plan to invest in Natlan teams or want a future-proof unit for endgame content.

Other Considerations

  • Roster Needs: If your account lacks a strong DPS, Varesa is the better choice, as a modern 5-star carry often outweighs a support for newer players. If you have multiple DPS units but need a universal buffer, Xilonen is ideal.
  • Primogem Budget: With Columbina rumored for Version 6.3, prioritize characters that fill immediate gaps. Xilonen’s broader utility makes her a safer long-term investment, but Varesa’s banner offers valuable 4-stars for team-building.
  • Playstyle Preference: Varesa’s flashy, high-skill Plunge gameplay suits players who enjoy active, precise combat. Xilonen’s straightforward, off-field support role is perfect for those who prefer low-maintenance buffs and survivability.