Ballad of the Boundless Blue is a standout 4-star Catalyst weapon in Genshin Impact that debuted in Version 4.1. Revered for its impressive Energy Recharge stat and its ability to boost both Normal and Charged Attack damage, this weapon has carved a niche for itself among catalyst users who favor high DPS output. Originally available through the limited-time Waterborne Poetry event, Ballad of the Boundless Blue remains a coveted prize for players who took part in that special event or hope for a future rerun.
A Closer Look at Ballad of the Boundless Blue
Weapon Type, Rarity, and Primary Stat
This catalyst weapon is rated 4-star (★★★★) and prominently features Energy Recharge as its primary stat. Its design focuses on empowering catalyst users through increased Normal and Charged Attack damage, making it a perfect choice for main DPS or on-field driver roles.
Acquisition and Event Details
Ballad of the Boundless Blue was originally distributed for free during the flagship limited-time event called Waterborne Poetry. To participate, players needed to reach Adventure Rank 20 and complete Act III of the Archon Quest Prologue. Both the weapon and its refinement materials were available by completing event-specific activities and mini-games. Outside of special rerun events or future additions, the weapon is currently not obtainable.
Weapon Stats Over the Levels
The weapon scales impressively with level upgrades. At Level 1/20, it starts with a Base ATK of 44 and an Energy Recharge of 7.0%. By Level 90/90, its Base ATK climbs to 565 while Energy Recharge reaches 30.6%. These improvements ensure that as players invest in its ascension, the weapon continues to deliver impactful performance in battle.
Weapon Skill: Azure Skies
The unique skill, Azure Skies, boosts Normal Attack damage by 8%-16% and Charged Attack damage by 6%-12% (depending on the refinement level) for a duration of 6 seconds after landing an attack. Stacks can reach up to three, with each stack having an independent duration and the effect capable of triggering once every 0.3 seconds.
Ascension Materials Required
To fully ascend Ballad of the Boundless Blue to Level 90, the following materials are needed:
- Boreal Wolf’s Milk Tooth x3
- Boreal Wolf’s Cracked Tooth x9
- Boreal Wolf’s Broken Fang x9
- Boreal Wolf’s Nostalgia x4
- Fragile Bone Shard x15
- Sturdy Bone Shard x18
- Fossilized Bone Shard x27
- Treasure Hoarder Insignia x10
- Silver Raven Insignia x15
- Golden Raven Insignia x18
- Mystic Enhancement Ore x607
Recommended Characters and Build Synergies
Ideal Catalyst Users
Ballad of the Boundless Blue particularly shines when equipped by catalyst characters who can utilize its energy and damage bonuses. Notable users include Charlotte, Wriothesley, Yanfei, Neuvillette, Lisa, Ningguang, Mona, Shikanoin Heizou, Xianyun, Barbara, Wanderer (Scaramouche), and Klee. These characters benefit greatly from both the increased Normal/Charged Attack damage and the enhanced Energy Recharge, enabling faster Elemental Burst uptime.
Optimal Use Cases
The weapon is well-suited for main DPS roles or on-field drivers. Catalyst users who rely heavily on frequent Normal and Charged Attacks will see significant benefits from its effects. Additionally, players looking for a versatile and free-to-play friendly option will appreciate the ease with which Ballad of the Boundless Blue scales into various team compositions.
Build Recommendations
For building a formidable DPS setup with Ballad of the Boundless Blue, consider pairing it with artifact sets that enhance Normal/Charged Attack or Elemental Damage Bonus. Sets such as Shimenawa’s Reminiscence, Gladiator’s Finale, or Wanderer’s Troupe work exceptionally well. For artifact main stats, aim for:
- Sands: ATK% or Energy Recharge if burst uptime is critical
- Goblet: Elemental DMG Bonus
- Circlet: Crit Rate or Crit DMG
Substats like Crit Rate, Crit DMG, ATK%, and additional Energy Recharge can further optimize performance.
Comparative Analysis with Similar Weapons
How It Stacks Up Against Other Catalysts
When compared to weapons like Favonius Codex, Oathsworn Eye, Prototype Amber, and Hakushin Ring, Ballad of the Boundless Blue stands out primarily for its focused Energy Recharge stat and direct boost to Normal and Charged Attack damage. While Favonius Codex is ideal for energy particle generation and Oathsworn Eye emphasizes Elemental Skill and Burst bonuses, Ballad of the Boundless Blue offers a balanced alternative that reinforces DPS potential with efficient energy management.
In Summary: Unleashing the Potential of Ballad of the Boundless Blue
Ballad of the Boundless Blue is a powerful addition to any catalyst user’s arsenal in Genshin Impact. With its unique ability to enhance both attack types and boost Energy Recharge, it caters to characters who rely on frequent offensive maneuvers and rapid Elemental Burst activation. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a free-to-play enthusiast, this weapon provides both versatility and strength, ensuring it remains a treasured asset for the right team composition.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ballad of the Boundless Blue in Genshin Impact
What type of weapon is Ballad of the Boundless Blue?
Ballad of the Boundless Blue is a Catalyst weapon, specifically designed for characters who use catalysts as their primary means of attack.
What is the rarity of this weapon?
This weapon is a 4-star (★★★★) Catalyst, making it a high-quality choice without reaching the 5-star tier.
How can players obtain Ballad of the Boundless Blue?
It was originally given away for free during the limited-time Waterborne Poetry event in Version 4.1. Currently, it is only accessible through special rerun events or future updates.
What primary stat does Ballad of the Boundless Blue boost?
The weapon primarily boosts Energy Recharge, which is vital for reducing Elemental Burst cooldowns.
How does the weapon skill, Azure Skies, work?
Azure Skies increases Normal Attack damage by 8%-16% and Charged Attack damage by 6%-12% for 6 seconds after an attack lands. It can stack up to 3 times with each stack having its own duration, and it can trigger every 0.3 seconds.
Which characters benefit the most from this weapon?
Catalyst users like Charlotte, Wriothesley, Yanfei, Neuvillette, Lisa, and Ningguang benefit greatly, owing to high reliance on Normal and Charged Attack damage and the need for enhanced Energy Recharge.
What level does the weapon reach at its maximum?
At Level 90/90, Ballad of the Boundless Blue reaches a Base ATK of 565 and an Energy Recharge of 30.6%.
What are the recommended artifact sets for users of this weapon?
Artifact sets such as Shimenawa’s Reminiscence, Gladiator’s Finale, and Wanderer’s Troupe are effective. These sets help in boosting either Normal/Charged Attack DMG or Elemental DMG Bonus, depending on the build.
How do the ascension materials compare to other 4-star weapons?
The ascension materials for Ballad of the Boundless Blue include a mix of boss drops, common enemy drops, and refinement ores similar to other 4-star weapons. The materials required ensure progressive scaling in performance and effectiveness.
Is Ballad of the Boundless Blue a good option for free-to-play players?
Yes, its flexibility across various builds and roles, combined with its initial free availability during the event, makes it an excellent choice for players operating on a free-to-play basis.