How do I defeat a Guardian Stalker without ancient weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

Defeating a Guardian Stalker without ancient weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a challenging but achievable task. Guardian Stalkers are one of the most formidable enemies in the game, known for their powerful laser attacks and high durability. However, with the right strategy, preparation, and understanding of their mechanics, you can take them down using conventional weapons and tactics.

First, letÔÇÖs break down the mechanics of a Guardian Stalker. These enemies have a few key behaviors. They patrol areas and will lock onto you with a targeting laser before firing a powerful beam. They are also capable of melee attacks if you get too close, such as spinning their legs or charging at you. Their weak point is the eye, which can be exploited to stagger them and deal significant damage. Additionally, their legs can be destroyed to immobilize them temporarily, making them easier to handle.

To prepare for this fight, youÔÇÖll need a few essential items. A strong shield is crucial for deflecting their laser attacks. The Hylian Shield, found in Hyrule Castle, is one of the best options due to its high durability. If you donÔÇÖt have it, any sturdy shield will work, but be prepared to replace it if it breaks. YouÔÇÖll also want a good supply of arrows, especially bomb arrows or elemental arrows, as they can deal extra damage. A strong melee weapon, such as a Royal Broadsword or a Lynel weapon, is also recommended for dealing damage once the Guardian is staggered. Additionally, consider cooking meals that boost your defense or provide extra hearts, as the GuardianÔÇÖs attacks can be devastating.

The first step in the fight is to avoid the GuardianÔÇÖs laser attack. When the Guardian locks onto you, youÔÇÖll see a red beam targeting you. Just before it fires, youÔÇÖll hear a beeping sound. This is your cue to perform a perfect parry with your shield. To do this, hold your shield up and press the A button at the exact moment the laser is about to hit you. If timed correctly, the laser will be reflected back at the Guardian, dealing significant damage to its eye and staggering it. This is the most effective way to damage a Guardian without ancient weapons, as it doesnÔÇÖt rely on your weaponÔÇÖs durability.

If youÔÇÖre not confident in your parrying skills, another strategy is to use the environment to your advantage. Look for cover, such as rocks or trees, to break the GuardianÔÇÖs line of sight. This will cause it to lose its lock-on, giving you time to reposition or attack. You can also use Stasis+ to freeze the Guardian temporarily, allowing you to close the distance and attack its legs or eye. Destroying its legs will immobilize it, making it easier to focus on its weak point.

Once the Guardian is staggered, rush in and attack its eye with your strongest weapon. This will deal critical damage and keep it from recovering quickly. If you have bomb arrows, use them to deal extra damage to the eye or legs. Be mindful of your weapon durability, as Guardian Stalkers have a lot of health, and you may go through several weapons during the fight.

A common mistake is panicking when the Guardian locks onto you. Staying calm and timing your parry correctly is key to success. Another mistake is underestimating the GuardianÔÇÖs melee attacks. If you get too close, it can spin its legs or charge at you, dealing heavy damage. Always maintain a safe distance unless youÔÇÖre attacking its weak point.

For advanced players, you can optimize the fight by using UrbosaÔÇÖs Fury, a Champion ability that deals massive area-of-effect damage. This can quickly take down a Guardian if used strategically. Additionally, wearing armor with high defense, such as the Ancient Armor set, can reduce the damage you take from the GuardianÔÇÖs attacks.

If youÔÇÖre struggling with the parry timing, an alternative approach is to use stealth. Sneak up on the Guardian and attack its legs with a strong weapon. Destroying its legs will immobilize it and give you time to focus on its eye. You can also use elemental arrows, such as shock arrows, to stun the Guardian and create openings for attacks.

In specific scenarios, such as fighting multiple Guardians, prioritize taking them out one at a time. Use the environment to isolate them and focus on parrying their lasers or destroying their legs. If youÔÇÖre in an area with water, you can use Cryonis to create ice blocks as cover or to block the GuardianÔÇÖs path.

In summary, defeating a Guardian Stalker without ancient weapons requires careful preparation, precise timing, and effective use of your resources. By mastering the parry mechanic, exploiting the GuardianÔÇÖs weak points, and using the environment to your advantage, you can overcome this formidable foe. With practice and patience, youÔÇÖll be able to take down Guardian Stalkers with confidence, even without the most powerful weapons in the game.