How do I defeat Thunderblight Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

Defeating Thunderblight Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of the more challenging boss fights in the game, especially for players who are not prepared. Thunderblight Ganon is the boss of the Divine Beast Vah Naboris, and it is known for its speed and electrical attacks. Here is a detailed guide on how to defeat Thunderblight Ganon, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

Thunderblight Ganon has three main phases, each with distinct attack patterns and mechanics. The first phase involves close-quarters combat, where Thunderblight Ganon uses a sword and shield. It will dash around the arena, making it difficult to land hits. The key to this phase is timing your dodges to perform a Flurry Rush. When Thunderblight Ganon dashes toward you, dodge to the side at the last moment to trigger a Flurry Rush, allowing you to land multiple hits. Alternatively, you can use a shield to parry its attacks, but this requires precise timing.

In the second phase, Thunderblight Ganon will start using electrical attacks. It will summon metal pillars and electrify them, creating a hazard in the arena. To counter this, use Magnesis to grab one of the metal pillars and move it close to Thunderblight Ganon. When it electrifies the pillars, the electricity will arc to the one you are holding, stunning Thunderblight Ganon and leaving it vulnerable to attacks. This is the most critical part of the fight, as it allows you to deal significant damage.

The third phase is similar to the first but with added electrical attacks. Thunderblight Ganon will continue to dash around and attack with its sword, but it will also summon lightning bolts that strike the ground. These lightning bolts can be avoided by moving constantly or using a shield to block them. Again, focus on dodging its attacks to trigger Flurry Rushes or parrying to create openings for counterattacks.

Preparation is key to defeating Thunderblight Ganon. Before entering the fight, make sure you have plenty of healing items, such as hearty meals or elixirs. Thunderblight Ganon's attacks can deal significant damage, so having a good supply of healing items will help you survive the fight. Additionally, consider wearing armor with high defense or electrical resistance. The Rubber Armor set, which can be obtained by completing certain shrines, provides excellent electrical resistance and reduces the damage from Thunderblight Ganon's attacks.

Weapons are also important. Thunderblight Ganon is weak to attacks from weapons that deal high damage, such as two-handed swords or spears. However, be mindful of your weapon durability, as Thunderblight Ganon's speed and attacks can quickly wear down your weapons. It is a good idea to bring a variety of weapons to the fight, including some with high durability.

One common mistake players make is not managing their stamina effectively. Thunderblight Ganon's speed and attacks require quick movements and dodges, which can drain your stamina quickly. Make sure to have a full stamina wheel or use stamina-restoring items during the fight. Another mistake is not using Magnesis effectively in the second phase. Failing to stun Thunderblight Ganon with the metal pillars can prolong the fight and make it more difficult.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations that can make the fight easier. One technique is to use Urbosa's Fury, the ability granted by completing Vah Naboris, to deal massive damage to Thunderblight Ganon. This ability can be used to quickly deplete its health in the later phases of the fight. Additionally, using elemental arrows, such as shock arrows, can help deal extra damage, though they are not necessary to win the fight.

An alternative approach to the fight is to focus on ranged attacks. Using a bow and arrow, especially with bomb arrows, can allow you to deal damage from a distance while avoiding Thunderblight Ganon's close-range attacks. However, this approach requires good aim and timing, as Thunderblight Ganon moves quickly and can close the distance between you and it in an instant.

In summary, defeating Thunderblight Ganon requires a combination of preparation, timing, and strategy. Focus on dodging its attacks to trigger Flurry Rushes, use Magnesis to stun it in the second phase, and manage your stamina and resources effectively. With the right preparation and approach, you can overcome this challenging boss and free Vah Naboris from Ganon's control.