Airi might not be the most eye-catching character in Blue Archive, but she brings a unique support toolkit to the table that can truly stand out in the right circumstances. In this RPG, Airi is recognized for her ability to manipulate attack speeds through debuffs and buffs, making her a valuable asset when it comes to controlling the pace of battle rather than focusing on sheer damage output. While she isn't commonly used in everyday gameplay, Airi shines in specific late-game raids such as ShiroKuro (Insane), where her skills play a crucial role in managing boss mechanics effectively.
For new players or those focused on general progression, Airi isn’t a priority to build. Her EX Skill, while powerful, is costly and situational, and her overall impact can be limited in scenarios where enemies remain in cover or don't move much. However, for seasoned players aiming to fine-tune their endgame raid strategies, Airi can be an invaluable tool when deployed strategically.
What Makes Airi Special
Airi’s strength lies in her ability to control speed. Her Sub Skill passively increases the Attack Speed of all allies, while her Basic Skill frequently decreases the Attack Speed of a single enemy. This combination allows her to tilt the battlefield slightly in your favor, particularly in situations where interrupting or delaying enemy attacks is crucial.
When building Airi, you don't need to prioritize damage stats. Instead, focus on ensuring she remains healthy and active on the battlefield, allowing her to consistently influence the fight.
Using Airi in Battle
In combat, Airi functions largely on autopilot. Her Sub and Basic Skills activate without any need for player intervention, which simplifies her integration as a support unit. If you decide to utilize her EX Skill, timing is key—use it when enemies are funneling through chokepoints or are grouped up. The resulting slow effect can hinder enemy movement and engagement. In the context of ShiroKuro, her skills can be strategically used to manipulate the boss’s attack patterns, thereby maximizing your team's damage output during phase 2.
However, outside of this niche scenario, Airi’s EX Skill may not be worth the 5 SP it costs, especially since it only offers soft crowd control.
While Airi isn’t a go-to character for most players, she has her shining moments. For late-game challenges like ShiroKuro (Insane), her toolkit provides unique utility that can make a significant impact when timed correctly. Otherwise, she remains a specialized support unit, best reserved for content that aligns with her strengths.
If you decide to include her in your lineup, focus on leveraging her Sub Skill and integrate her into teams that thrive on speed-based support. To optimize your experience with her skill activations and raid strategies, consider playing Blue Archive on PC with BlueStacks for enhanced control and smoother performance.
