Discover the unique charm and specialized functionality of the Alley Hunter, a 4-star bow in Genshin Impact that rewards players with off-field damage bonuses when used by sub-DPS or support characters. This article walks you through its weapon type, acquisition methods, detailed stats, optimal builds, and comparisons to help you decide if this stylish bow is the ideal addition to your inventory.
Weapon Profile: The Alley Hunter
The Alley Hunter stands out as a bow with a distinct niche in Genshin Impact. With its high ATK percentage substat, this 4-star weapon is specially designed for characters who deal off-field damage. Its signature effect provides a stacking damage bonus when the equipped character is not actively on the field, making it perfect for sub-DPS and support roles.
Type, Rarity, and Acquisition
Weapon Type and Rarity
Alley Hunter is a bow, rated at 4-stars (★★★★). Its design and effect cater to players looking for a weapon that amplifies off-field damage, setting it apart from more traditional main DPS options.
How to Obtain the Alley Hunter
This weapon is exclusively available through the Weapon Event Wish banner, known as the Epitome Invocation. The Alley Hunter rotates into availability on the banner, which means it cannot be obtained through standard wishes or permanently available banners. Timely participation in event banners is key to acquiring this specialized weapon.
In-Depth Weapon Stats and Materials
Base Stats
The Alley Hunter scales impressively with level progression. At level 1, it starts with a Base ATK of 44 and a 6.0% ATK% substat. By level 90, its Base ATK increases to 565 while the ATK% climbs to 27.6%.
Upgrade Materials
- Dream of the Dandelion Gladiator x18
- Chaos Core x12
- Slime Concentrate x18
- Additional materials such as Fetters, Chains, or Shackles of the Dandelion Gladiator, Chaos Device/Circuit, and Slime Condensate/Secretions for lower ascensions
Weapon Skill: Oppidan Ambush
Unique Effects and Details
The signature ability of the Alley Hunter, known as Oppidan Ambush, increases the DMG of the equipped character by 2% per second when off the field, stacking up to a maximum bonus of 20% at Refinement Rank 1. Once active on the field for over 4 seconds, the bonus is reduced at a rate of 4% per second until it resets. Higher refinement levels further boost this effect, making timing and role optimization critical for performance.
Refinement Scaling
| Refinement | Off-Field DMG Increase per sec | Maximum Off-Field DMG | On-Field DMG Loss per sec |
|---|---|---|---|
| R1 | 2% | 20% | 4% |
| R2 | 2.5% | 25% | 5% |
| R3 | 3% | 30% | 6% |
| R4 | 3.5% | 35% | 7% |
| R5 | 4% | 40% | 8% |
Optimal Champions and Build Strategies
Best Characters for Alley Hunter
The Alley Hunter shines when equipped on sub-DPS or support characters whose abilities thrive even when they are off the field. Fischl is a standout candidate, as her familiar Oz continues to dish out Electro damage seamlessly while she remains off-field. Other characters like Yelan, Faruzan, and Venti may also benefit from its off-field bonuses provided their kits support persistent damage outputs.
Build Recommendations
For maximum impact, it is advisable to prioritize artifacts that boost ATK%, Crit Rate, and Crit DMG. Complement the build with artifact sets tailored to the character’s element. For instance, Thundering Fury works well with Electro units such as Fischl, while Emblem of Severed Fate allows for greater burst scaling. Note that this weapon is less ideal for characters who need to be on-field for extended periods since its bonus diminishes quickly when active.
Comparative Analysis and Alternatives
How Alley Hunter Stacks Up
Compared to other bow options, Alley Hunter excels in niche scenarios where off-field damage is key. Below is a snapshot comparison:
| Bow | Base ATK | Sub-stat | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alley Hunter | 565 | ATK 27.6% | Off-field sub-DPS |
| The Stringless | 510 | Elemental Mastery 165 | Elemental skill/burst scaling |
| Favonius Warbow | 454 | Energy Recharge 61.3% | Support/energy generation |
| Aqua Simulacra (5★) | 542 | Crit DMG 88.2% | High scaling for most bow users |
| Song of Stillness | 510 | ATK 41.3% | Generalist option |
The Legend Behind Alley Hunter
Intriguing Backstory
Inspired by a legendary thief who maneuvered through the hidden alleys of Mondstadt, the Alley Hunter carries a mysterious and captivating lore. Its motif of operating in the shadows fits perfectly with its game mechanics, where cunning and agile off-field damage play a prominent role in battle strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alley Hunter in Genshin Impact
What is the primary role of the Alley Hunter?
The Alley Hunter is designed for off-field sub-DPS or support roles. Its stacking damage bonus rewards players who prefer to keep the character out of the fray while their abilities continue to deal damage.
How do I obtain the Alley Hunter?
You can only acquire the Alley Hunter through the Weapon Event Wish banner, known as the Epitome Invocation. It is not available in standard wishes or on permanent banners.
What are the base stats of the Alley Hunter at level 90?
At level 90, the Alley Hunter has a Base ATK of 565 and an ATK% substat of 27.6%.
How does the Oppidan Ambush skill work?
Oppidan Ambush increases the character’s damage by a specific percentage per second when off-field, stacking to a maximum bonus. When the character is on-field for more than 4 seconds, the bonus starts decreasing until it resets.
Which characters benefit the most from the Alley Hunter?
Fischl is one of the best candidates because her familiar, Oz, can deal continuous Electro damage while she stays off-field. Other characters with off-field damage capabilities can also benefit.
What are the ideal artifact stats to pair with the Alley Hunter?
Focus on artifacts that boost ATK%, Crit Rate, and Crit DMG. Complement these sets with ones that support the character’s elemental abilities, such as Thundering Fury for Electro units.
Is the Alley Hunter effective for main DPS builds?
No, the Alley Hunter loses its bonus quickly when the character is on-field. It is best suited for builds where the character remains off-field to maximize the stacking damage effect.
How does refinement affect the weapon’s performance?
Each refinement level improves both the off-field damage increase per second and the maximum bonus, while also affecting the rate at which the bonus is lost when on-field.
Can the Alley Hunter be used on characters other than bow users?
No, the weapon is exclusive to characters who use bows in Genshin Impact and it is designed specifically for those combat styles.
Are there any alternatives to the Alley Hunter if I need a more versatile bow?
Yes, options like The Stringless or Song of Stillness might be a better fit if you require a weapon that offers versatility for main DPS roles or different playstyles.
