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

The Royal Guard's Spear is one of the most powerful spears in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, but it comes with a significant drawback: its low durability. This weapon is best used strategically, as it can break quickly if not managed properly. To make the most of the Royal Guard's Spear, you need to understand its mechanics, plan your approach, and use it in situations where its high damage output can be maximized.

First, let's discuss the mechanics of the Royal Guard's Spear. It has a base attack power of 32, which is quite high for a spear, but its durability is among the lowest in the game. This means it will break after only a few uses, so you need to be careful about when and how you use it. The spear's long reach and fast attack speed make it ideal for keeping enemies at a distance, especially against foes that are dangerous up close, like Lynels or Guardians. However, because of its fragility, it is not recommended for general use against weaker enemies like Bokoblins or Lizalfos.

To use the Royal Guard's Spear effectively, you should focus on high-value targets. For example, when facing a Lynel, the spear's reach allows you to stay out of range of its powerful melee attacks while dealing consistent damage. Start by mounting the Lynel after stunning it with a headshot using a bow. While mounted, your attacks do not consume durability, making this the perfect time to use the Royal Guard's Spear. This way, you can deal significant damage without worrying about the weapon breaking. Similarly, against Guardians, the spear's reach can help you avoid their laser attacks while chipping away at their health.

Preparation is key when using the Royal Guard's Spear. Before engaging in combat, make sure you have a backup weapon in case the spear breaks. It's also a good idea to have a strong shield for parrying and dodging, as well as plenty of healing items. If you're planning to fight a Lynel, consider cooking meals that boost your attack power or defense. For example, a meal made with Mighty Bananas and a Dragon Horn can give you a significant attack boost, making the Royal Guard's Spear even more effective.

One common mistake players make is using the Royal Guard's Spear for general combat. This weapon is too valuable to waste on weaker enemies, so save it for tougher foes. Another mistake is not having a backup plan. If the spear breaks mid-fight, you need to be ready to switch to another weapon or retreat if necessary. Additionally, avoid using the spear for tasks like breaking rocks or cutting trees, as this will quickly deplete its durability.

Advanced techniques can help you get the most out of the Royal Guard's Spear. For example, combining the spear with elemental effects can increase its effectiveness. If you have a weapon or arrow that can set enemies on fire or freeze them, you can use the spear to deal extra damage while they are affected by the status. Another advanced strategy is to use the spear in conjunction with stealth. Sneak up on a powerful enemy and land a critical hit with the spear before engaging in direct combat. This can give you a significant advantage in the fight.

In terms of alternative approaches, you might consider using the Royal Guard's Spear as a last resort weapon. Keep it in your inventory for emergencies, such as when you're low on health and need to finish off a tough enemy quickly. Alternatively, you could use it in situations where you need to deal a lot of damage in a short amount of time, such as during a boss fight or when facing multiple strong enemies at once.

Specific examples of when to use the Royal Guard's Spear include fighting a Silver Lynel in the Coliseum Ruins or taking on a Guardian Stalker in Hyrule Field. In both cases, the spear's high damage and reach can give you an edge, but you need to be careful not to overuse it. Against the Lynel, focus on mounting and attacking, while against the Guardian, use the spear to keep your distance and avoid its laser attacks.

In conclusion, the Royal Guard's Spear is a powerful but fragile weapon that requires careful management. Use it strategically against high-value targets, prepare for combat with backup weapons and healing items, and avoid wasting it on weaker enemies or non-combat tasks. With the right approach, the Royal Guard's Spear can be a valuable tool in your arsenal, helping you take down some of the toughest foes in Hyrule.