Theorylytics

Diluc vs Gaming

The OG Pyro carry vs. the 4-star plunge prodigy

TL;DR — Quick Pick

Pick Diluc if…

  • If you prefer a simpler, more traditional Claymore combo
  • When you lack the high-energy management Gaming requires
  • If you want a Pyro carry that doesn't constantly drain their own HP

Pick Gaming if…

  • In teams with Xianyun for massive Plunge damage
  • If you have high constellations (C4+) on Gaming
  • When you want a more modern, high-mobility Pyro DPS
Verdict

At equal investment and with Xianyun support, Gaming actually outperforms the veteran Diluc in damage output. Diluc remains a solid, easy-to-play option for those who find Gaming's HP drain and mechanics too frantic.

At a Glance

Diluc
Stat
Gaming
5-Star
Rarity
4-Star
Standard / Plunge
Playstyle
Plunge-focusedWinner
LowWinner
Burst Dependency
High
HighWinner
Ease of Use
Moderate
Moderate
Damage Ceiling
Surprisingly HighWinner
None
Sustainability
Self-healingWinner
ModerateWinner
Team Reliance
High (Xianyun)
Slow
Animations
Fast / DynamicWinner

Strengths & Weaknesses

Diluc

Strengths
  • Pyro Infusion will not be lost if you swap characters and swap back to Diluc.
  • Great Shield breaking having both Pyro and Blunt DMG.
  • Elemental Burst only costs 40 Energy.
Weaknesses
  • Low damage compared to other Main DPS, especially Pyro characters.
  • First Ascension Passive increases Charged Attack damage which is rarely used.
  • Diluc's best weapons are simply stat sticks and not tailored for him.

Gaming

Strengths
  • Strong Pyro damage
  • Versatile team options
Weaknesses
  • Requires investment
  • Best teams use limited 5-stars

Shared Team Members

With Diluc

Xianyun enables a high-damage plunge playstyle for Diluc by providing the increased jump height and necessary Anemo buffs. Her 'Starwacker' passive increases the CRIT Rate of Diluc's plunge attacks, while her healing allows him to maintain aggressive rotations without fear. This transformative synergy significantly raises Diluc's damage ceiling, making his plunge attacks his most potent offensive tool.

With Gaming

Xianyun is Gaming's most essential partner, as her kit is perfectly designed to amplify his plunge-based 'Suanni's Leisure' Skill attacks. She provides the jump height needed for him to execute his plunges consistently and offers a massive DMG buff to those specific hits. Her team-wide healing also ensures that Gaming stays healthy while he consumes his own HP during his rotations.

Best Builds (Signature)

Diluc

Weapon

Wolf's Gravestone

Artifacts

Marechaussee Hunter

Sands

ATK % / Elemental Mastery

Goblet

Pyro DMG

Circlet

CRIT Rate / CRIT DMG

Substats

CRIT Rate/DMG > ATK % > Elemental Mastery > Energy Recharge

Gaming

Weapon

Fruitful Hook

Artifacts

Crimson Witch of Flames

Sands

Elemental Mastery > ATK %

Goblet

Pyro DMG

Circlet

CRIT Rate / CRIT DMG

Substats

Energy Recharge to requirements > CRIT Rate / CRIT DMG > Elemental Mastery > ATK %

Who Should You Pull?

Diluc
Pull Diluc if…
  • If you prefer a simpler, more traditional Claymore combo
  • When you lack the high-energy management Gaming requires
  • If you want a Pyro carry that doesn't constantly drain their own HP
Diluc Full Guide
Gaming
Pull Gaming if…
  • In teams with Xianyun for massive Plunge damage
  • If you have high constellations (C4+) on Gaming
  • When you want a more modern, high-mobility Pyro DPS
Gaming Full Guide