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 combination of strategy, preparation, and understanding of the game's mechanics. Stalhorses are skeletal horses that appear at night in certain regions of Hyrule, such as the Tabantha Frontier or the Gerudo Highlands. They are unique enemies because they are not aggressive like other Stal enemies, but they can still pose a challenge 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 undead creatures that crumble into bones when exposed to sunlight or when defeated. They are not hostile, but they cannot be tamed or registered at a stable. If you attempt to ride one, it will eventually collapse into bones, leaving you stranded. To defeat a Stalhorse, you need to attack it directly. However, since they are not aggressive, you must initiate combat.

Before engaging a Stalhorse, ensure you are well-prepared. Equip a strong weapon, such as a sword or spear, as Stalhorses have moderate health. A weapon with at least 20-30 damage is recommended. Additionally, bring a shield to block any unexpected attacks from other enemies that may appear at night. If you are in a cold region, such as the Gerudo Highlands, wear warm clothing or consume food that provides cold resistance. It is also a good idea to have a few healing items, such as cooked meals or elixirs, in case you take damage during the fight.

To defeat a Stalhorse, approach it carefully. Since they are not aggressive, you can get close without provoking them. Once you are within range, use a strong melee weapon to attack. Aim for the body or head to deal maximum damage. Stalhorses do not have any special defenses, so standard attacks will work. After a few hits, the Stalhorse will collapse into bones, and you will receive monster parts, such as Stalhorse bones or Stalhorse guts, which can be used for crafting or selling.

One important tip is to avoid using elemental weapons, such as fire or ice, as they are not particularly effective against Stalhorses. Instead, focus on raw damage output. Additionally, if you are in an area with other Stal enemies, such as Stalkoblins or Stalmoblins, prioritize defeating them first to avoid being overwhelmed. Stalhorses are not a significant threat on their own, but combined with other enemies, they can complicate the fight.

A common mistake is attempting to ride or tame a Stalhorse. While it is possible to mount one temporarily, it will eventually collapse, and you will not be able to register it at a stable. This can waste time and leave you vulnerable to other enemies. Instead, focus on defeating the Stalhorse quickly to collect its materials.

For advanced players, you can use stealth to approach the Stalhorse without alerting other enemies. Equip stealth-enhancing armor, such as the Sheikah Set, and crouch to move silently. This allows you to isolate the Stalhorse and defeat it without drawing attention. Alternatively, you can use a bow to attack from a distance, though this is less efficient than melee combat.

If you are in a region with multiple Stalhorses, such as the Tabantha Frontier, you can defeat them one by one to collect their materials. These materials are valuable for crafting elixirs or selling for rupees. However, be mindful of the time, as Stalhorses will disappear at dawn. If you are running out of time, consider using a campfire to pass the night and extend your hunting window.

In summary, defeating a Stalhorse requires preparation, a strong weapon, and a focus on direct combat. Avoid unnecessary distractions, such as attempting to ride the Stalhorse, and prioritize defeating it quickly. With the right strategy, you can efficiently collect Stalhorse materials and continue your adventure in Hyrule.