Wuthering Waves' elemental system has evolved significantly in Version 2.0, introducing Elemental Effects that go beyond simple buffs and resistances. Initially, elements primarily enhanced character performance and influenced enemy weaknesses, but now, with new Echo sets and character reworks, these effects offer more dynamic interactions. This guide details the changes.
Elemental Status Effects and Debuffs
While elements like Glacio's freeze effect (seen in enemies like Lampylumen Myriad) have been in the game since launch, Version 2.0 expands this to all six elements, each with unique status effects applied through specific attacks. These often function as damage over time (DoT) effects. Dodging removes these stacks.
| Elemental Effect | Effect Description |
|---|---|
| Havoc Bane | Stacks up to 2; at 2 stacks, deals Havoc DMG and reapplies to nearby characters. |
| Glacio Chafe | Reduces movement speed, increasing with stacks; at 10 stacks, freezes the resonator (players can "Struggle" to recover faster). |
| Spectro Frazzle | Stacks reduce over time, dealing Spectro DMG; more stacks = more DMG. |
| Fusion Burst | Stacks up to 10; at 10 stacks, explodes, dealing significant Fusion DMG. |
| Aero Erosion | Deals Aero DMG periodically; stacks don't deplete to deal damage, more stacks = more damage over time. |
| Electro Flare | Reduces ATK (-5% at 1-4 stacks, -7% at 5-9 stacks with Magnetized effect, -10% at 10 stacks). |
Resonators, Echoes, and Echo Sets
While the game hints at broader Elemental Effect integration, current usage is limited. Version 2.0 primarily enhances this mechanic for specific Resonators, Echoes, and Echo sets:
Resonators Applying Elemental Effects
Currently, only the reworked Spectro Rover (available post-Version 2.0 storyline) can apply Elemental Effects. Its Resonance Skill (Resonating Spin) applies 2 stacks of Spectro Frazzle and a Shimmer effect, preventing stack decay, allowing sustained effect buildup.
Echoes and Echo Sets
Only one Echo set currently benefits from Elemental Effects, primarily supporting Spectro Rover:
- Eternal Radiance (Echo Set): 2pc: +10% Spectro DMG; 5pc: Spectro Frazzle inflicts +20% Crit Rate (15s); 10 stacks grant +15% Spectro DMG Bonus (15s).
- Nightmare (Echo): Mourning Aix deals 273.60% Spectro DMG; DMG increased by 100% against Spectro Frazzle; +12% Spectro DMG Bonus.
In summary, while still niche, Version 2.0 significantly expands Wuthering Waves' elemental system through Elemental Effects, offering strategic depth primarily for Spectro Rover and specific Echo sets. Future updates may broaden this mechanic's impact.
