What is the best way to use the Edge of Duality in combat in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Edge of Duality is a powerful two-handed sword in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, known for its high damage output and durability. It is a great weapon for taking on tougher enemies, but its slow swing speed and two-handed nature require careful use in combat. To maximize its effectiveness, you need to understand its mechanics, plan your approach, and avoid common mistakes.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of the Edge of Duality. As a two-handed weapon, it deals significant damage per hit, making it ideal for taking down high-health enemies like Lynels, Hinoxes, or Guardians. However, its slow attack speed means you cannot spam attacks without leaving yourself vulnerable. Additionally, two-handed weapons cannot be used with a shield, so you lose the ability to block or parry attacks. This makes dodging and positioning critical when using the Edge of Duality.

To use the Edge of Duality effectively, start by mastering the basics of combat. Perfect dodges and flurry rushes are essential. When an enemy attacks, press the jump button (X) while moving left or right to perform a side hop or backward to perform a backflip. Timing this correctly will trigger a slow-motion effect, allowing you to unleash a flurry rush. During a flurry rush, you can land multiple hits with the Edge of Duality, dealing massive damage. This is especially useful against fast enemies like Lynels or Guardians.

Another important strategy is to use charged attacks. Holding the attack button (Y) with the Edge of Duality will cause Link to spin in a circle, dealing damage to all nearby enemies. This is great for crowd control when surrounded by weaker foes like Bokoblins or Lizalfos. However, be cautious when using this move, as it leaves you vulnerable to ranged attacks or counterattacks from stronger enemies. Always ensure you have enough stamina to complete the spin and retreat if necessary.

Preparation is key when using the Edge of Duality. Before engaging in combat, make sure you have enough stamina for dodging and charged attacks. Eating meals that boost stamina or stamina regeneration can help. Additionally, consider wearing armor that increases your attack power, such as the Barbarian Set or the Fierce Deity Set. These sets will amplify the damage dealt by the Edge of Duality, making it even more effective.

One common mistake is overcommitting to attacks. The Edge of DualityÔÇÖs slow swing speed means you cannot cancel an attack mid-swing. If you miss or the enemy dodges, you may be left open to counterattacks. To avoid this, always plan your attacks carefully and focus on timing rather than spamming buttons. Another mistake is using the Edge of Duality against enemies with shields. Two-handed weapons are less effective against shielded foes, as they can block your attacks easily. In these situations, consider switching to a one-handed weapon or using a shield-breaking technique like a bomb or a heavy weapon.

For advanced techniques, consider combining the Edge of Duality with environmental elements. For example, you can use fire or electricity to create additional damage. If you are fighting in a grassy area, set the grass on fire with a fire arrow or flame weapon, then use the Edge of Duality to knock enemies into the flames. Alternatively, use shock arrows or electric weapons to stun enemies, giving you an opening to land powerful hits with the Edge of Duality.

In specific scenarios, the Edge of Duality shines against large, slow enemies like Hinoxes or Taluses. These enemies have high health but are relatively easy to dodge, making them ideal targets for the weaponÔÇÖs high damage output. For example, when fighting a Hinox, aim for its eye to stagger it, then use charged attacks with the Edge of Duality to deal massive damage while it is stunned.

In summary, the Edge of Duality is a powerful but demanding weapon that requires careful use. Master perfect dodges and flurry rushes, use charged attacks wisely, and prepare with stamina-boosting meals and attack-enhancing armor. Avoid overcommitting to attacks and be mindful of shielded enemies. By combining these strategies with environmental elements and advanced techniques, you can make the most of the Edge of Duality in combat.