Where can I find the shrine quest "The Test of Strength" in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The "Test of Strength" shrines in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild are a series of combat-focused shrines that challenge players to defeat a Guardian Scout in a one-on-one battle. These shrines are scattered throughout Hyrule and are categorized into three difficulty levels: Minor, Modest, and Major Tests of Strength. Each level increases the Guardian Scout's health, attack power, and the complexity of its combat patterns. Completing these shrines rewards you with valuable weapons, shields, and sometimes rare materials like Ancient Cores.

To find a "Test of Strength" shrine, you need to explore Hyrule thoroughly. These shrines are often located in remote or hidden areas, such as near bodies of water, on cliffs, or in forests. One example is the "Joloo Nah Shrine" in the Gerudo Highlands, which is a Minor Test of Strength. Another is the "Hia Miu Shrine" in the Akkala region, which is a Major Test of Strength. You can identify these shrines by their names, as they often include the word "Test" or "Strength" in their titles.

Before entering a "Test of Strength" shrine, it is crucial to prepare adequately. First, ensure you have a good supply of weapons, as the Guardian Scouts are durable and can quickly wear down your arsenal. Weapons with high durability and damage output, such as Royal or Savage Lynel weapons, are ideal. Additionally, bring shields with high durability to block the Scout's powerful attacks. The Ancient Shield, obtained from the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab, is particularly effective due to its ability to deflect Guardian beams.

Armor is another important consideration. Wearing armor with high defense, such as the Soldier's Set or the Ancient Set, can significantly reduce the damage you take. If you have the Ancient Set, its set bonus increases your damage against Guardians, making it an excellent choice for these battles. Additionally, consider cooking meals that boost your defense or attack power. Dishes like "Tough Meat and Seafood Fry" or "Mighty Porgy Meunière" can provide temporary buffs that give you an edge in combat.

Once inside the shrine, the battle begins immediately. The Guardian Scout will use a variety of attacks, including melee strikes, spinning attacks, and energy beams. For Minor Tests of Strength, the Scout's attacks are relatively simple, but for Major Tests, the Scout will use more advanced techniques, such as charging up a powerful spin attack or launching homing energy orbs. To counter these attacks, use your shield to block melee strikes and dodge to avoid energy beams. Perfect dodges, which trigger a Flurry Rush, are particularly effective for dealing significant damage.

One common mistake is underestimating the Scout's durability and running out of weapons mid-battle. To avoid this, manage your weapon usage carefully. Use weaker weapons for the initial phases of the battle and save your strongest weapons for when the Scout's health is low. Additionally, avoid wasting arrows unless you have a good supply, as they can be crucial for interrupting the Scout's charged attacks.

Advanced techniques include using the environment to your advantage. Some shrines have pillars or walls that you can use to block the Scout's attacks or create distance. Additionally, using runes like Stasis+ can temporarily freeze the Scout, giving you an opportunity to land several free hits. Bombs can also be used to deal damage, though they are less effective against higher-level Scouts.

If you find yourself struggling, consider upgrading your armor and weapons before attempting the shrine again. Alternatively, you can leave the shrine and return later when you are better prepared. Some players prefer to complete easier shrines first to gather Spirit Orbs and increase their health or stamina, making the "Test of Strength" shrines more manageable.

In summary, "Test of Strength" shrines are challenging but rewarding encounters that test your combat skills and preparation. By equipping the right weapons, armor, and meals, and by mastering combat techniques like perfect dodges and shield parries, you can overcome these trials and claim the valuable rewards they offer. Always be mindful of your resources and use the environment to your advantage to ensure victory.