Layla vs Citlali
The sleep-deprived shielder vs. Natlan's Cryo strategist
TL;DR — Quick Pick
Pick Layla if…
- If you need the strongest possible 4-star Cryo shield
- When playing on-field carries that need constant protection
- For low-investment, reliable off-field Cryo application
Pick Citlali if…
- When utilizing Natlan's Nightsoul mechanics for extra buffs
- If you need a more offensive Cryo presence from a Catalyst user
- For higher potential damage ceiling in specialized teams
Layla is the queen of budget shielding and comfort. Citlali offers a more advanced, higher-ceiling Natlan playstyle that trades raw shield strength for offensive utility and Nightsoul synergy.
At a Glance
Strengths & Weaknesses
Layla
- Strong Cryo damage
- Versatile team options
- Requires investment
- Best teams use limited 5-stars
Citlali
- Provides both Pyro and Hydro RES decreases.
- The 50 Nightsoul points required for Citlali's Nightsoul's Blessing is triggered easily.
- Incredibly easy to build only needing EM.
- Weaker shielding compared to many shielders due to having no shield absorption in her kit.
- Cryo application not always frequent enough to consistently create reactions on her own. Depends on the team and rotation.
Shared Team Members
With Layla
Layla provides Wanderer with a sturdy shield that gives him much-needed interruption resistance during his flight. When Wanderer's Elemental Skill contacts Layla's Cryo, he gains a 20% CRIT Rate bonus from his Jade-Claimed Flower passive, which is a massive boost to his personal damage. Together, they offer a comfortable and effective defensive-offensive synergy.
With Citlali
Citlali's Cryo infusion and buffs provide Wanderer with the necessary elemental contact to trigger his passive CRIT Rate bonus. She acts as a powerful support that increases Wanderer's damage output while also providing off-field Cryo application to maintain Freeze or other reactions. This synergy allows Wanderer to stay offensive while benefiting from Citlali's supportive kit.
With Layla
Layla provides Ayaka with a strong shield and Cryo Resonance, which grants a 15% CRIT Rate bonus against enemies affected by Cryo. Her shield is particularly useful for protecting Ayaka while she is performing her close-range charged attack sequences. Additionally, Layla's off-field Cryo application helps generate extra energy particles to fund Ayaka's expensive burst.
With Citlali
Citlali acts as a supportive partner for Ayaka, offering Cryo Resonance and helpful buffs that increase Ayaka's Cryo damage. Her presence allows for more consistent Cryo application and provides the energy needed to help Ayaka maintain uptime on her burst. Together, they form a solid Cryo core that can be used in Freeze or Mono-Cryo team compositions.
Best Builds (Signature)
Weapon
Key of Khaj-Nisut
Artifacts
Tenacity of the Millelith
Sands
ATK%
Goblet
DMG%
Circlet
CRIT Rate
Substats
Energy Recharge Until Breakpoint > HP % > CRIT Rate with Favobius > HP
Weapon
Starcaller's Watch
Artifacts
Scroll of the Hero of Cinder City
Sands
ER / EM
Goblet
EM
Circlet
EM
Substats
Energy Recharge > Elemental Mastery
Who Should You Pull?
- If you need the strongest possible 4-star Cryo shield
- When playing on-field carries that need constant protection
- For low-investment, reliable off-field Cryo application
- When utilizing Natlan's Nightsoul mechanics for extra buffs
- If you need a more offensive Cryo presence from a Catalyst user
- For higher potential damage ceiling in specialized teams