Il Dottore in Genshin Impact ⇒ Origins, Powers & Future

\Il Dottore, also known as Zandik, is one of the most enigmatic and sinister figures in Genshin Impact. As one of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers, Dottore’s deep obsession with science and experimentation has made him a fearsome presence in the world of Teyvat. Originally hailing from Sumeru, he was expelled from the Akademiya due to his unethical research before joining the ranks of the Fatui under Pierro’s guidance. His involvement in major events across Teyvat, including experiments on people, sabotage, and manipulation, showcases his complex and ruthless nature. This article delves into his origins, personality, abilities, and role in the overarching story of Genshin Impact.

Source : Maru Biscuit (MB)

Who is Il Dottore – Background and Origins

Although Il Dottore is closely associated with Snezhnaya and the Fatui Harbingers, he originally comes from Sumeru. His real name is Zandik, and his early life was marked by an intense curiosity for scientific advancement, often disregarding ethical boundaries. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and the lack of compassion in his experiments led to his eventual expulsion from the Sumeru Akademiya.

Many traditional scholars viewed his research as dangerous and inhumane. Despite his exile, Dottore never abandoned his ideologies, and his radical methods caught the attention of Pierro, the leader of the Fatui Harbingers. Recognizing his potential, Pierro offered him a position within the Fatui, granting him access to the vast resources needed to continue his research unrestricted.

Il Dottore’s Appearance and Personality

Il Dottore is easily recognizable due to his striking appearance. He wears a checkerboard mask, indicative of his high-ranking status within the Fatui Harbingers, and has wild blue hair that contrasts sharply against his signature white suit. His outfit and mask give him an almost theatrical appearance, symbolizing his rejection of conventional morality in favor of scientific progress.

His personality is arguably his most terrifying trait. Unlike other antagonists in Genshin Impact who display remnants of humanity or emotion, Dottore exhibits an unsettling lack of empathy. According to Tighnari, a knowledgeable forest ranger from Sumeru, Dottore converses in a manner devoid of malice, yet his complete lack of compassion is chilling. He sees people as mere test subjects, valuing only what he can extract from them scientifically.

Il Dottore’s Role in the Story

His Introduction in the Genshin Impact Manga

Il Dottore made his first appearance in the official Genshin Impact manga, which predates the game’s main storyline. Even in this early depiction, he is shown to be conducting unethical experiments in Mondstadt, attempting to create artificially enhanced humans capable of rivaling the gods. His actions were met with resistance from Diluc, one of the prominent characters in Mondstadt.

Joining the Fatui and Experimentation

Following his expulsion from the Akademiya, Dottore was recruited into the Fatui by Pierro. Unlike other Harbingers, who might have joined for conquest or power, Dottore saw the Fatui as an opportunity to pursue his experiments without restriction. He officially took on the title “Il Dottore” (The Doctor), a name that holds ironic significance given his complete disregard for human life.

Notable Activities in Teyvat

Sabotaging the Tatarasuna Furnace in Inazuma – One of his most infamous actions was the sabotage of the Tatarasuna Furnace. During this event, Dottore manipulated circumstances to cause its collapse, resulting in the death of a worker named Niwa. He later presented Niwa’s heart to Scaramouche.
Experiments on Children in Apam Woods – In Sumeru, Dottore conducted research on the local children in Apam Woods. These experiments were particularly heinous, as they involved unknown, likely dangerous procedures with long-term repercussions.
Testing on Eleazar Patients – Eleazar, a disease known to those in Sumeru, was another area of Dottore’s experimentation. He used the afflicted as test subjects, hoping to further his scientific endeavors.

Abilities and Powers – The Genius of Il Dottore

Unlike other Fatui Harbingers who rely on sheer combat prowess, Dottore’s strength lies primarily in his intelligence, strategic mind, and scientific creations.

Creating Clones – The “Segments”

One of Dottore’s most groundbreaking advancements is the creation of clones, known as “segments.” These are versions of himself preserved at different ages, effectively allowing him to exist in multiple places simultaneously. These segments are incredibly difficult to make due to the rare materials required, and they retain the knowledge of their respective iterations.

Potential Elemental Abilities

While he has not been confirmed as a playable character, speculation suggests that Dottore might have Hydro or Cryo elemental abilities, as hinted by datamined information. Additionally, his in-game file name includes “claymore,” implying he might be a potential claymore user.

Recent Story Developments

In the Sumeru Arc, Dottore played a crucial role in Nahida’s confinement. He successfully trapped her consciousness and used this as leverage to negotiate for the Electro and Dendro gnoses. In exchange for the gnoses, he claimed to have destroyed his segments. However, many theories suggest he may have retained their knowledge via an advanced backup mechanism.

Symbolism and Themes Behind Il Dottore

Dottore’s character design and narrative are infused with symbolic elements:

Plague Doctor Imagery – His mask resembles a plague doctor’s mask, commonly associated with medieval medicine and death.
Corvid Motifs (Ravens and Crows) – His constellation and themes surrounding his character often involve corvid imagery, reinforcing his ties to death, intelligence, and mystery.

Future Speculations About Il Dottore

Many fans speculate that Dottore will become a playable character in a future update due to his significance in the story. Given his role, he may be introduced as a high-tier 5-star character, potentially wielding a claymore and using a Cryo or Hydro vision.

How to Prepare for Il Dottore’s Potential Playable Release

Save Primogems and Materials

Accumulate a good stockpile of Primogems in case he is introduced as a limited 5-star character.
Collect Ascension Materials related to Snezhnaya or Fatui origins to be prepared.

Anticipate His Playstyle

Since Dottore is likely an intellect-based fighter, his abilities might incorporate scientific advancements, meaning players should anticipate high-skill mechanics.