How do I defeat a Stalhorse in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

Defeating a Stalhorse in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild requires a mix of combat strategy, resource management, and understanding the unique mechanics of these skeletal enemies. Stalhorses are undead horses that appear at night in certain regions of Hyrule, such as the Tabantha Frontier or the Gerudo Highlands. They are not aggressive by nature, but they can be challenging to deal with if you are unprepared. Here is a detailed guide on how to defeat a Stalhorse effectively.

First, it is important to understand the mechanics of Stalhorses. Unlike regular horses, Stalhorses are skeletal and cannot be tamed or registered at stables. They are also immune to conventional attacks, as they will simply reassemble after being struck. To defeat a Stalhorse, you must target its head, specifically the glowing blue eye. This is its weak point, and hitting it will cause the Stalhorse to collapse and disintegrate. However, this requires precision, as the head is a small target and moves erratically.

To prepare for this encounter, you will need a reliable bow and arrows. A bow with a high rate of fire or a long-range bow, such as the Phrenic Bow or the Golden Bow, is ideal for this task. Additionally, having a few stamina-boosting meals or elixirs can help if you need to chase the Stalhorse or maintain your aim for an extended period. It is also a good idea to wear armor that enhances stealth or movement speed, such as the Stealth Set or the Ancient Armor, to make it easier to approach or follow the Stalhorse.

When you encounter a Stalhorse, the first step is to get into a good position. Stalhorses are skittish and will flee if they detect you, so it is best to approach quietly or from a distance. Use the environment to your advantage by hiding behind rocks or trees to avoid detection. Once you are in range, draw your bow and aim for the glowing eye on the Stalhorse's head. This requires patience and precision, as the head moves frequently. If you miss, the Stalhorse may bolt, forcing you to chase it down.

One effective strategy is to use the slow-motion aiming feature by jumping off a high point or using a shield surf to slow time. This gives you more time to line up your shot and increases your chances of hitting the weak point. Alternatively, you can use elemental arrows, such as ice or shock arrows, to immobilize the Stalhorse temporarily, making it easier to land a critical hit. However, be mindful of your arrow supply, as these are valuable resources.

Common mistakes to avoid include wasting arrows by firing too quickly or without proper aim. Stalhorses are fast and can be difficult to hit, so rushing your shots will only deplete your resources. Another mistake is trying to engage in close combat. Stalhorses cannot be damaged by melee weapons, and attempting to do so will only waste your weapon's durability. Always prioritize ranged attacks and aim for the head.

Advanced techniques include using the environment to your advantage. For example, you can lure the Stalhorse into a narrow area, such as a canyon or between trees, to limit its movement and make it easier to target. You can also use stealth to get closer before drawing your bow, reducing the distance you need to shoot. Additionally, if you have the Master Cycle Zero from the Champions' Ballad DLC, you can use it to chase the Stalhorse more effectively, as it is faster and more maneuverable than running on foot.

In terms of alternative approaches, you can choose to ignore the Stalhorse if it is not necessary for your current objective. Stalhorses are not aggressive and will not attack you unless provoked, so you can simply avoid them if you are low on resources or prefer not to engage. However, defeating a Stalhorse can be rewarding, as it may drop valuable materials like Stalhorse parts, which can be used for crafting or selling.

In summary, defeating a Stalhorse requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Use a bow to target the glowing eye on its head, and consider using slow-motion aiming or elemental arrows to increase your chances of success. Avoid close combat and conserve your resources by taking your time to line up your shots. With the right strategy and preparation, you can easily overcome this unique enemy and continue your journey through Hyrule.