What is the best strategy for defeating Calamity Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

Defeating Calamity Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the culmination of the game's main story. This battle is divided into two phases: the fight against Calamity Ganon in Hyrule Castle and the final showdown with Dark Beast Ganon in the open field. To succeed, you need to understand the mechanics, prepare adequately, and execute a solid strategy.

First, let's discuss the mechanics. Calamity Ganon has several attacks, including melee strikes, energy blasts, and area-of-effect attacks. He can also summon weapons like swords and spears, which he uses to attack you. His attacks are telegraphed, so you can dodge or parry them if you time your moves correctly. In the second phase, Dark Beast Ganon is a massive creature that you must target with light arrows while riding your horse. This phase is more about precision and timing than direct combat.

Preparation is key. Before heading to Hyrule Castle, ensure you have the best gear possible. The Master Sword is highly recommended because it deals extra damage to Ganon and doesn't break during the fight. If you don't have the Master Sword, bring high-damage weapons like Royal or Savage Lynel weapons. Equip armor with high defense, such as the Ancient Armor set, which also provides resistance against Ganon's attacks. Stock up on healing items, including hearty meals and elixirs, to keep your health topped up. Additionally, bring plenty of arrows, especially bomb arrows, as they can deal significant damage to Ganon.

Now, let's go through the step-by-step strategy. When you enter the Sanctum, Calamity Ganon will appear. Start by using your bow to target his glowing weak points. These are usually on his head and body. Hitting these spots will stun him, allowing you to get in close and deal melee damage. Use flurry rushes and perfect dodges to avoid his attacks and counter effectively. If you have Urbosa's Fury, use it to deal massive damage and stun him further. Keep an eye on your health and heal as needed.

In the second phase, Dark Beast Ganon will appear in the open field. You will need to use your horse to chase him down. Equip the Bow of Light, which is provided during this phase, and aim for the glowing weak points on his body. These weak points are larger and easier to hit, but you need to be precise. Use your horse's speed to keep up with Ganon and avoid his attacks. Once you hit all the weak points, you will trigger a final cutscene and complete the game.

Important tips and considerations include managing your stamina. Running out of stamina during the fight can leave you vulnerable. Use stamina-restoring items if necessary. Also, make sure to use your runes effectively. The Stasis rune can temporarily freeze Ganon, giving you a chance to attack. The Magnesis rune can be used to manipulate metal objects in the environment, though this is less useful in the Ganon fight.

Common mistakes to avoid include not preparing adequately. Going into the fight without enough healing items or strong weapons can make the battle much harder. Another mistake is not using your abilities effectively. Urbosa's Fury, Revali's Gale, and other Champion abilities can give you a significant advantage if used correctly.

Advanced techniques include using the Master Sword's beam attack when your health is full. This can deal damage from a distance and is especially useful in the second phase. Another technique is to use the Ancient Shield, which can automatically reflect Ganon's energy blasts if you time your parries correctly.

Alternative approaches include using stealth to avoid some of Ganon's attacks. While this is less effective in the final battle, it can be useful in the earlier parts of Hyrule Castle. You can also use environmental objects to your advantage, though this is limited in the Sanctum.

Specific examples and scenarios include using the Master Sword's beam attack to hit Ganon's weak points from a distance. This can save you from having to get too close and risk taking damage. Another example is using Urbosa's Fury to stun Ganon and deal massive damage in a short amount of time.

In summary, defeating Calamity Ganon requires preparation, strategy, and effective use of your abilities. By following these steps and tips, you can overcome this final challenge and complete the main story of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.