What is the best way to use the Ancient Short Sword in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Ancient Short Sword is one of the most powerful one-handed weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, especially when used against Guardians and other ancient enemies. It is crafted using Ancient Materials at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab, and its high damage output makes it a valuable tool in combat. To use the Ancient Short Sword effectively, you need to understand its mechanics, optimize its usage, and prepare accordingly.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of the Ancient Short Sword. This weapon deals 40 base damage, which is already impressive for a one-handed sword. However, its true strength lies in its bonus damage against Guardian-type enemies. When fighting Guardians, the Ancient Short Sword deals 50% more damage, making it a top choice for taking down these formidable foes. Additionally, it has a durability of 54, which is higher than most weapons in the game, allowing it to last longer in combat. Its lightweight design also makes it ideal for quick attacks and dodging, giving you an edge in fast-paced battles.

To maximize the effectiveness of the Ancient Short Sword, preparation is key. Before engaging in combat, ensure you have the necessary materials to craft or repair the sword. You will need 15 Ancient Springs, 5 Ancient Shafts, 2 Ancient Cores, and 1,000 Rupees to create it at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. Farming these materials can be done by defeating Guardian Stalkers, Skywatchers, and Turrets in shrines or the overworld. Additionally, wearing the Ancient Armor set, which can also be crafted at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab, will further boost the swordÔÇÖs damage output. The set bonus increases damage dealt by ancient weapons by 80%, making the Ancient Short Sword even more devastating.

When using the Ancient Short Sword in combat, focus on its strengths. Against Guardians, aim for their legs to immobilize them, then target their eye for critical hits. The swordÔÇÖs quick attack speed allows you to chain multiple strikes, making it easier to stagger enemies. For other enemies, such as Lynels or Hinoxes, the Ancient Short Sword can still be effective, but itÔÇÖs best to pair it with a shield for parrying and dodging. Perfect dodges will trigger flurry rushes, allowing you to deal massive damage in a short amount of time. Remember to manage your stamina, as dodging and sprinting consume it quickly.

One common mistake players make is overusing the Ancient Short Sword against non-Guardian enemies. While it is a powerful weapon, its durability is finite, and itÔÇÖs best saved for tougher battles. Instead, use weaker weapons for smaller enemies like Bokoblins or Lizalfos to conserve the Ancient Short Sword for more challenging encounters. Another mistake is neglecting to upgrade the Ancient Armor set. The set bonus is crucial for maximizing the swordÔÇÖs damage, so prioritize upgrading it at Great Fairy Fountains.

Advanced techniques include combining the Ancient Short Sword with other combat strategies. For example, using elemental arrows or environmental hazards can weaken enemies before engaging them with the sword. Additionally, cooking meals that boost attack power, such as those made with Mighty Bananas or Razor Shrooms, can further enhance your damage output. Pairing the sword with a high-durability shield, like the Ancient Shield, can also improve your defensive capabilities during combat.

In specific scenarios, the Ancient Short Sword shines. For example, during the fight against Calamity Ganon, the swordÔÇÖs bonus damage against ancient enemies makes it a top choice for dealing with the bossÔÇÖs second phase. Similarly, when exploring Hyrule Castle or Guardian-heavy areas like Central Hyrule, having the Ancient Short Sword equipped can make encounters much more manageable.

In conclusion, the Ancient Short Sword is a versatile and powerful weapon that excels against Guardians and other ancient enemies. By understanding its mechanics, preparing adequately, and using it strategically, you can dominate even the toughest battles in Breath of the Wild. Remember to conserve its durability, pair it with the Ancient Armor set, and use advanced techniques to optimize its effectiveness. With these strategies, the Ancient Short Sword will become an invaluable tool in your journey through Hyrule.