What is the best way to use the Royal Guard's Sword in combat in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Royal Guard's Sword is one of the most powerful one-handed weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, boasting high damage output. However, it has low durability, meaning it will break quickly if not used strategically. To maximize its effectiveness in combat, you need to understand its strengths, weaknesses, and how to integrate it into your overall combat strategy.

First, let's discuss the mechanics of the Royal Guard's Sword. It has a base attack power of 48, making it one of the strongest one-handed swords in the game. However, its durability is extremely low, meaning it can only withstand a limited number of hits before breaking. This makes it a situational weapon, best reserved for critical moments rather than general use. The sword is found in Hyrule Castle, often in the guard's chambers or near the Sanctum, making it a late-game weapon for most players.

To use the Royal Guard's Sword effectively, you should focus on high-impact situations where its damage output can make a significant difference. For example, it is ideal for fighting tough enemies like Lynels, Guardians, or bosses where you need to deal as much damage as possible in a short amount of time. Avoid using it against weaker enemies like Bokoblins or Lizalfos, as this would waste its durability on trivial encounters.

Preparation is key when using the Royal Guard's Sword. Before engaging in combat, ensure you have a backup weapon in case the sword breaks mid-fight. Additionally, consider using food or elixirs that boost your attack power, such as Mighty Bananas or Dragon Horn elixirs, to further amplify the sword's damage. Wearing armor sets like the Barbarian Set or the Fierce Deity Set, which increase attack power, can also enhance your effectiveness in combat.

In combat, focus on precision and efficiency. Use flurry rushes, which are triggered by perfectly dodging an enemy's attack, to deal massive damage in a short period. The Royal Guard's Sword is particularly effective in these situations because its high damage output can quickly deplete an enemy's health. Additionally, consider using shield parries against enemies like Guardians to stun them and create openings for powerful strikes.

One common mistake is overusing the Royal Guard's Sword in situations where a weaker weapon would suffice. Since it breaks easily, you should reserve it for critical moments. Another mistake is neglecting to repair or replace it after it breaks. Always keep an eye on its durability and switch to a backup weapon when necessary.

Advanced techniques include combining the Royal Guard's Sword with elemental effects. For example, using a shock arrow to stun an enemy before closing in with the sword can give you a significant advantage. Additionally, you can use the sword in conjunction with Urbosa's Fury, a Champion ability that deals massive area-of-effect damage, to quickly dispatch groups of enemies.

Alternative approaches include using the Royal Guard's Sword as a secondary weapon in conjunction with a bow or spear. For example, you can weaken an enemy from a distance with arrows before finishing them off with the sword. This conserves the sword's durability while still allowing you to take advantage of its high damage output.

In specific scenarios, such as fighting a Lynel, the Royal Guard's Sword can be a game-changer. Lynels are among the toughest enemies in the game, and their high health pools make them ideal targets for the sword's damage. Use flurry rushes and perfect dodges to maximize your damage output while minimizing the risk of taking damage yourself.

In summary, the Royal Guard's Sword is a powerful but fragile weapon that requires careful management. Use it sparingly, focus on high-impact situations, and always have a backup plan. With the right preparation and strategy, it can be one of the most effective tools in your arsenal for taking down the toughest enemies in Hyrule.