SHORT ANSWER
Start with the route anchor
A physical ranged anchor that keeps the mark and counter-fire route readable.
Load Elena's route in PlannerWeapon choices that match the run you have
A physical ranged anchor that keeps the mark and counter-fire route readable.
Tradeoff: The route still depends on movement timing; the weapon cannot fix missed dodges.
A reliable physical alternative when the Crossbow is not offered.
Tradeoff: It may demand more reload discipline while Elena is moving.
A crowd-control pivot when the run needs Disruption more than mark payoff.
Tradeoff: Changing element can disconnect the current relic package.
How to choose the weapon during a run
- Keep the active element. Switching away from the element your relics and Tarot reference costs more than a higher rarity label usually gives back.
- Check the event rhythm. Reload, first shot, final shot, skill use, and companion triggers only matter when the weapon produces them often enough.
- Match the room. Use the crowd guidance for packs and the boss guidance for a long single-target phase; one weapon does not have to win both jobs equally.
- Switch for a reason. Move when the new weapon fixes a real failure, such as reload downtime, missing room coverage, or an element the rest of the build has already abandoned.
This is Elena's best matchup. Mark the priority target, keep the counter-fire window deliberate, and take boss damage once movement is reliable.
Against packs, value a weapon or relic that covers space while Elena marks the target that matters. Do not chase single-target payoff if the room is the actual failure point.
If the recommended weapon never appears
The dodge window or mark payoff is not appearing consistently.
Use a safe physical gun, movement support, and reliable damage; let Elena's marks be an upside instead of the only source of output.
Do not: Do not value a perfect arrow chain above a weapon you can safely keep firing.