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

The Royal Guard's Claymore is one of the most powerful two-handed weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, boasting high damage output. However, it has low durability, meaning it breaks quickly. To use it effectively, you need to understand its mechanics, manage its durability, and employ strategies that maximize its potential while minimizing waste. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to make the most of the Royal Guard's Claymore.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics. The Royal Guard's Claymore has a base attack power of 72, making it one of the strongest weapons in the game. However, its durability is extremely low, often breaking after just a few hits. This makes it a high-risk, high-reward weapon. ItÔÇÖs best used in situations where you need to deal massive damage quickly, such as against tough enemies like Lynels, Guardians, or bosses. Because of its fragility, itÔÇÖs not ideal for general exploration or fighting weaker enemies.

To use the Royal Guard's Claymore effectively, you need to prepare properly. Before engaging in combat, ensure you have a backup weapon in case the Claymore breaks. Additionally, consider using food or elixirs that boost your attack power, such as a Mighty Banana dish or a Mightily Simmered Fruit. These will further increase the damage output of the Claymore, allowing you to defeat enemies faster and conserve its durability. Armor sets like the Barbarian Set or the Fierce Deity Set also provide attack bonuses, making them ideal for this weapon.

When using the Royal Guard's Claymore in combat, focus on high-value targets. For example, Lynels are one of the best enemies to use this weapon against. Start by mounting the Lynel using stealth or a well-timed arrow to the face. Once mounted, switch to the Royal Guard's Claymore and attack repeatedly. Mounted attacks do not consume durability, so you can deal massive damage without worrying about the weapon breaking. This is one of the most effective ways to use the Claymore without wasting its durability.

Another strategy is to use the Claymore for sneak attacks. If you can sneak up on an enemy, a charged spin attack with the Claymore can deal devastating damage. This is particularly effective against groups of enemies or high-health targets like Hinoxes. However, be cautious, as the spin attack consumes a lot of durability. Use it sparingly and only when youÔÇÖre confident it will finish off the enemy or significantly weaken them.

One common mistake players make is using the Royal Guard's Claymore for general combat or against weak enemies. This is a waste of its potential, as the weapon will break quickly without dealing significant damage to justify its use. Instead, save it for critical moments when you need to deal massive damage quickly. Another mistake is not having a backup weapon. Always carry a secondary weapon, such as a Savage Lynel Sword or a Royal Broadsword, to switch to if the Claymore breaks.

Advanced techniques involve combining the Royal Guard's Claymore with other combat mechanics. For example, you can use UrbosaÔÇÖs Fury, a Champion ability, to stun enemies and then follow up with a charged spin attack from the Claymore. This maximizes damage output while minimizing the number of hits required, preserving the weaponÔÇÖs durability. Additionally, using elemental arrows or environmental hazards like fire or electricity can weaken enemies before engaging them with the Claymore.

Preparation is key when using the Royal Guard's Claymore. Ensure you have plenty of healing items, as two-handed weapons leave you vulnerable during attacks. Cooking hearty dishes or using fairies can help you survive tough battles. Also, consider upgrading your armor to increase your defense, as the ClaymoreÔÇÖs slow attack speed can leave you open to counterattacks.

Alternative approaches include using the Royal Guard's Claymore for specific challenges, such as defeating a Molduga or clearing a Guardian Stalker. In these scenarios, the weaponÔÇÖs high damage can quickly turn the tide of battle. For example, when fighting a Molduga, use bombs to lure it out of the sand and then attack with the Claymore while itÔÇÖs stunned. Against Guardian Stalkers, use the Claymore to break their legs and then finish them off with a few powerful strikes.

In summary, the Royal Guard's Claymore is a powerful but fragile weapon best used in specific situations. Focus on high-value targets, prepare with attack-boosting items, and use advanced techniques like mounted attacks or sneak strikes to maximize its potential. Avoid using it for general combat, and always have a backup weapon ready. With careful planning and strategic use, the Royal Guard's Claymore can be a game-changer in tough battles.