What is the best way to use the Pot Lid in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Pot Lid in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a basic shield that players can find early in the game. While it may seem like a weak and unremarkable item, it can be surprisingly useful if used correctly. The Pot Lid has a low durability and defense rating, but it is lightweight and easy to obtain, making it a good option for beginners or as a backup shield. Here is a detailed explanation of how to use the Pot Lid effectively in combat and other situations.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of using the Pot Lid. Like all shields in the game, the Pot Lid can be used to block incoming attacks from enemies. To use it, you must equip it in your shield slot and hold the ZL button to raise it. While holding the shield up, Link will automatically block most melee attacks and projectiles, reducing or negating damage. The Pot Lid can also be used for parrying, which is a more advanced technique. To parry, you must press the A button while holding ZL just as an enemyÔÇÖs attack is about to hit you. If timed correctly, this will deflect the attack and leave the enemy vulnerable for a counterattack. Parrying is especially useful against powerful enemies like Guardians, as it can reflect their laser beams back at them.

One of the best ways to use the Pot Lid is for practicing parrying. Since it is easy to find and replace, it is a low-risk option for learning the timing of parries without wasting more valuable shields. To practice, find a weaker enemy like a Bokoblin and let it attack you. Focus on the timing of its swings and try to parry just before the attack lands. Once you get the hang of it, you can move on to tougher enemies like Moblins or Guardians. Parrying is a crucial skill for advanced combat, so mastering it early will make the game much easier.

Another useful strategy for the Pot Lid is shield surfing. Shield surfing allows Link to slide down hills and slopes at high speeds, which can be a fun and efficient way to travel. To shield surf, hold ZL to raise your shield, then press X to jump and A while in the air to start surfing. The Pot Lid is one of the lightest shields in the game, making it ideal for long-distance surfing. However, keep in mind that shield surfing consumes durability, so the Pot Lid will break quickly if used excessively. To minimize durability loss, try to surf on smooth surfaces like snow or sand, as rough terrain will wear down the shield faster.

When using the Pot Lid in combat, it is important to manage its durability carefully. Since it has low durability, it will break after blocking only a few attacks. To avoid this, try to use it sparingly and switch to a stronger shield when facing tougher enemies. For example, you can use the Pot Lid to block a few hits from a Bokoblin, then switch to a stronger shield like the SoldierÔÇÖs Shield when fighting a Moblin or Lynel. This way, you can conserve your more valuable shields for when you really need them.

One common mistake players make is relying too heavily on the Pot Lid in combat. While it is a decent shield for beginners, it is not suitable for prolonged battles or against powerful enemies. If you find yourself in a tough fight, it is better to switch to a stronger shield or use other combat techniques like dodging and flurry rushes. Another mistake is using the Pot Lid for shield surfing without considering its durability. If you plan to surf for a long time, it is better to use a shield with higher durability, like the Radiant Shield or the Ancient Shield.

For advanced players, the Pot Lid can be used in creative ways to optimize gameplay. For example, you can use it to block elemental attacks like fire or electricity, as it does not conduct electricity and can block fireballs. This makes it a useful tool for fighting enemies like Electric Wizzrobes or Fire Lizalfos. Additionally, the Pot Lid can be used to block projectiles like arrows or rocks, which can be helpful in certain shrine puzzles or enemy camps.

In terms of preparation, you do not need any special items to use the Pot Lid effectively. However, it is a good idea to carry multiple Pot Lids or other shields in case one breaks. You can find Pot Lids in various locations, such as enemy camps, villages, or abandoned ruins. They are also commonly dropped by Bokoblins, so defeating these enemies is a good way to stock up on Pot Lids.

An alternative approach to using the Pot Lid is to combine it with other combat techniques. For example, you can use the Pot Lid to block an enemyÔÇÖs attack, then quickly switch to a two-handed weapon for a powerful counterattack. This strategy works well against enemies like Moblins or Lynels, who have slow but powerful attacks. Another alternative is to use the Pot Lid for stealth. Since it is lightweight, it does not make much noise when moving, making it a good option for sneaking past enemies or completing stealth-based quests.

In specific scenarios, the Pot Lid can be a lifesaver. For example, if you are caught off guard by a GuardianÔÇÖs laser beam, you can use the Pot Lid to parry the attack and reflect it back at the Guardian. This can save you from taking massive damage and give you a chance to escape or defeat the Guardian. Another scenario is when fighting a group of Bokoblins. You can use the Pot Lid to block their attacks while focusing on one enemy at a time, reducing the risk of being overwhelmed.

In conclusion, the Pot Lid is a versatile and useful item in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While it may not be the strongest shield, it is a great tool for practicing parrying, shield surfing, and managing durability. By using it strategically and combining it with other combat techniques, you can make the most of this humble item and improve your overall gameplay. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, the Pot Lid is a valuable addition to your inventory.