What is the best way to use the Ancient Short Sword in combat in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?
The Ancient Short Sword is one of the most powerful one-handed weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, especially when used against Guardians and other ancient enemies. Its high base damage, combined with its unique properties, makes it a valuable tool in combat. However, to use it effectively, you need to understand its mechanics, strengths, and limitations. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to maximize its potential in combat.
First, letÔÇÖs talk about the mechanics of the Ancient Short Sword. This weapon deals 40 base damage, which is already impressive for a one-handed sword. However, its true power shines when used against Guardians and other ancient enemies, as it deals 30% bonus damage to these foes. This makes it particularly effective against Guardian Stalkers, Skywatchers, and Turrets. Additionally, the sword is durable, with a lifespan of around 54 hits before it breaks. To craft or purchase the Ancient Short Sword, you need to visit the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab and exchange 1,000 rupees, 15 Ancient Springs, 5 Ancient Shafts, and 2 Ancient Cores. These materials can be obtained by defeating Guardians or found in shrines and treasure chests.
To use the Ancient Short Sword effectively, you should focus on its strengths. Since it excels against Guardians, itÔÇÖs best to save it for these encounters rather than wasting its durability on weaker enemies. When facing a Guardian, start by targeting its legs if itÔÇÖs a Stalker. This will immobilize it, giving you more time to deal damage. Use the swordÔÇÖs fast attack speed to land multiple hits quickly. If youÔÇÖre fighting a Guardian Skywatcher or Turret, aim for its eye with arrows first to stun it, then close the distance and use the Ancient Short Sword to finish it off.
Preparation is key when using the Ancient Short Sword. Before engaging in combat, make sure you have a full set of Ancient Armor, which can also be purchased at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. This armor set provides an additional 80% damage boost against ancient enemies when upgraded to at least level 2. Combined with the Ancient Short SwordÔÇÖs innate bonus, this makes you incredibly powerful against Guardians. Additionally, consider cooking meals that boost your attack power, such as those made with Mighty Bananas or Razor Shrooms. These can further increase your damage output.
One common mistake players make is using the Ancient Short Sword against non-ancient enemies. While itÔÇÖs a strong weapon, its durability is better saved for tougher foes like Guardians. Instead, use weaker weapons for smaller enemies like Bokoblins or Lizalfos. Another mistake is not upgrading the Ancient Armor set. Without the damage boost from the armor, the Ancient Short Sword loses some of its effectiveness. Make sure to collect the necessary materials to upgrade your armor at Great Fairy Fountains.
For advanced techniques, consider pairing the Ancient Short Sword with a shield that can deflect Guardian lasers, such as the Ancient Shield. This allows you to parry incoming attacks and close the distance quickly. Additionally, practice perfect dodges and flurry rushes to maximize your damage output while minimizing the damage you take. These techniques are especially useful when fighting multiple Guardians or Lynels, as they allow you to deal massive damage in a short amount of time.
In terms of alternative approaches, if you donÔÇÖt have the Ancient Short Sword, you can still use other ancient weapons like the Ancient Bladesaw or Ancient Spear. These weapons also benefit from the Ancient Armor setÔÇÖs damage boost and are effective against Guardians. However, the Ancient Short SwordÔÇÖs balance of speed and power makes it a favorite among players. If youÔÇÖre low on resources, consider using elemental weapons or arrows to exploit enemy weaknesses. For example, shock arrows can stun enemies, giving you an opening to attack with the Ancient Short Sword.
A specific scenario where the Ancient Short Sword shines is during the fight against Calamity Ganon. In the second phase of the battle, Ganon takes on a Guardian-like form, making the Ancient Short Sword extremely effective. Combined with the Ancient Armor set and attack-boosting meals, you can deal significant damage quickly, making the fight much easier.
In conclusion, the Ancient Short Sword is a powerful weapon that excels against Guardians and other ancient enemies. To use it effectively, focus on preparation, such as upgrading your Ancient Armor and cooking attack-boosting meals. Save its durability for tough fights, and pair it with advanced combat techniques like perfect dodges and flurry rushes. Avoid using it on weaker enemies, and consider alternative weapons if youÔÇÖre low on resources. With the right strategy, the Ancient Short Sword can be a game-changer in your battles across Hyrule.
First, letÔÇÖs talk about the mechanics of the Ancient Short Sword. This weapon deals 40 base damage, which is already impressive for a one-handed sword. However, its true power shines when used against Guardians and other ancient enemies, as it deals 30% bonus damage to these foes. This makes it particularly effective against Guardian Stalkers, Skywatchers, and Turrets. Additionally, the sword is durable, with a lifespan of around 54 hits before it breaks. To craft or purchase the Ancient Short Sword, you need to visit the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab and exchange 1,000 rupees, 15 Ancient Springs, 5 Ancient Shafts, and 2 Ancient Cores. These materials can be obtained by defeating Guardians or found in shrines and treasure chests.
To use the Ancient Short Sword effectively, you should focus on its strengths. Since it excels against Guardians, itÔÇÖs best to save it for these encounters rather than wasting its durability on weaker enemies. When facing a Guardian, start by targeting its legs if itÔÇÖs a Stalker. This will immobilize it, giving you more time to deal damage. Use the swordÔÇÖs fast attack speed to land multiple hits quickly. If youÔÇÖre fighting a Guardian Skywatcher or Turret, aim for its eye with arrows first to stun it, then close the distance and use the Ancient Short Sword to finish it off.
Preparation is key when using the Ancient Short Sword. Before engaging in combat, make sure you have a full set of Ancient Armor, which can also be purchased at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. This armor set provides an additional 80% damage boost against ancient enemies when upgraded to at least level 2. Combined with the Ancient Short SwordÔÇÖs innate bonus, this makes you incredibly powerful against Guardians. Additionally, consider cooking meals that boost your attack power, such as those made with Mighty Bananas or Razor Shrooms. These can further increase your damage output.
One common mistake players make is using the Ancient Short Sword against non-ancient enemies. While itÔÇÖs a strong weapon, its durability is better saved for tougher foes like Guardians. Instead, use weaker weapons for smaller enemies like Bokoblins or Lizalfos. Another mistake is not upgrading the Ancient Armor set. Without the damage boost from the armor, the Ancient Short Sword loses some of its effectiveness. Make sure to collect the necessary materials to upgrade your armor at Great Fairy Fountains.
For advanced techniques, consider pairing the Ancient Short Sword with a shield that can deflect Guardian lasers, such as the Ancient Shield. This allows you to parry incoming attacks and close the distance quickly. Additionally, practice perfect dodges and flurry rushes to maximize your damage output while minimizing the damage you take. These techniques are especially useful when fighting multiple Guardians or Lynels, as they allow you to deal massive damage in a short amount of time.
In terms of alternative approaches, if you donÔÇÖt have the Ancient Short Sword, you can still use other ancient weapons like the Ancient Bladesaw or Ancient Spear. These weapons also benefit from the Ancient Armor setÔÇÖs damage boost and are effective against Guardians. However, the Ancient Short SwordÔÇÖs balance of speed and power makes it a favorite among players. If youÔÇÖre low on resources, consider using elemental weapons or arrows to exploit enemy weaknesses. For example, shock arrows can stun enemies, giving you an opening to attack with the Ancient Short Sword.
A specific scenario where the Ancient Short Sword shines is during the fight against Calamity Ganon. In the second phase of the battle, Ganon takes on a Guardian-like form, making the Ancient Short Sword extremely effective. Combined with the Ancient Armor set and attack-boosting meals, you can deal significant damage quickly, making the fight much easier.
In conclusion, the Ancient Short Sword is a powerful weapon that excels against Guardians and other ancient enemies. To use it effectively, focus on preparation, such as upgrading your Ancient Armor and cooking attack-boosting meals. Save its durability for tough fights, and pair it with advanced combat techniques like perfect dodges and flurry rushes. Avoid using it on weaker enemies, and consider alternative weapons if youÔÇÖre low on resources. With the right strategy, the Ancient Short Sword can be a game-changer in your battles across Hyrule.